Preparing to Paint

• 1
  This simple tree in winter duplicates the lines and washes of painting with non-permanent ink.Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Select an image to inspire your painting. Once an ink brushstroke is made on the paper, it cannot be altered. Therefore, it is best to select a simple image for your first projects. Images from nature such as mountains, trees and rivers are traditional. You can also select more graphic images such as hearts, flowers and scrolls.
  
  
• 2). Prepare your painting surface by securing the paper to the nonporous painting surface, such as a drafting board or painting board. A traditional easel is difficult to use for ink painting. Prepare your brushes, clean water, ink, the container and grinder for traditional Asian pigmented ink, and the mixing palette. Place your source image within comfortable view.
  
  
• 3). Paint the light wash areas first. The more water you add to your ink, the lighter the wash will appear. Paint lightest areas to darker areas. Traditional rice paper absorbs ink and water instantly. Western-based papers take slightly longer. Allow time for washes to be completely absorbed before painting over them. They do not have to be completely dry to continue.
  
  
• 4). Paint darker, more detailed areas as your next step. Work quickly, paying more attention to your source image than to the paper and brush.
  
  
• 5). Complete detailed areas and lines such as the tree with your smallest, lightest brush. Paint larger lines such as the trunk and large branches. Work to the smaller branches quickly. Indicate any leaves or tiny branches with light, quick strokes.