Wet-on-wet oil painting method explained

The wet-on-wet oil painting technique is exactly how it sounds: painting directly on top of wet paint without allowing the lower layer to dry. For this reason, the wet-on-wet method is also referred to as ‘direct painting’. You may also hear it called ‘wet-in-wet’, ‘wet-into-wet’, or ‘alla prima’, which means first attempt in Italian.

The Italians have got the name spot on here, because the wet-on-wet painting technique allows you to complete a painting in one sitting. With traditional methods of painting, referred to as ‘indirect painting’, it can take much longer to complete a painting because each layer is allowed to dry before moving on to the next.

Of course, the wet-on-wet oil painting technique varies depending on the type of surface that you’re painting onto, but the approach is still the same.

So, why use the wet-on-wet technique?

If, like me, you find yourself short on time, the wet-on-wet oil painting method is ideal. I use this technique during the oil layer stage in my paintings, and it is one of the techniques I demonstrate in my step-by-step lessons on MJS TV. It can shorten the painting process and makes soft blending much easier.

How to use the wet-on-wet method

There are a couple of important things to keep in mind:

ONE

The handling of each new layer matters. When I need a thinner, more fluid application, I use a small amount of an appropriate artist's solvent or medium so the new paint can be applied without excessively disturbing the layer underneath. Add any medium or solvent gradually and follow the manufacturer's directions and safety guidance.

TWO

It’s really important to use a light touch when adding additional layers using the wet-on-wet technique. Too much pressure on your brush can push the new colour into the existing paint and create muddy colour, or lift paint instead of laying it down. Try to let the paint make contact with the surface without pressing the whole brush heavily into the layer underneath.

Final notes

Oil paint can remain workable for a considerable period, although drying time varies greatly depending on the pigment, paint thickness, medium, temperature and other conditions.

If an area has dried before you return to it, the approach you take will depend on the painting and the stage you are working at. In some situations Michael uses a suitable oil-painting medium before continuing. Always make sure the materials and layers you combine are compatible and follow the manufacturer's guidance.

For complete step-by-step video guidance on wet-on-wet painting and many more techniques, visit MJS TV, where you can find lessons for a wide range of subjects and skill levels.

Now that you have an understanding of the wet-on-wet technique, you can also read about the glazing technique for oil painting.