Use Three Values to Create Dimension!
Have you ever finished painting something and thought, “I like it… but why does it still look a little flat?”
Sometimes, you don't need more colors.
You simply need a little more light and dark.
One of the simplest ways to create dimension in a painted object is to think in three values:
🖌️ A base color
🖌️ A darker shadow
🖌️ A lighter highlight
That's it!
Three simple values can make a surprising difference.
Let's Try It on a Pumpkin
If you're working on the Harvest Pumpkin Porch Leaner, choose one pumpkin to practice this technique.
Step 1: Start with your base color.
Paint your pumpkin with your Harvest Orange. This gives you the overall color and establishes your starting point.
Step 2: Add your shadow.
Think about where the pumpkin curves away from the light. Add a deeper orange or brown-orange to those areas.
You don't have to make the shadow dramatic. Start gently and build it up if you need to.
Step 3: Add your highlight.
Now think about where the light would naturally touch the pumpkin.
Add a lighter orange or soft highlight in those areas.
Suddenly, your pumpkin begins to feel a little more rounded and dimensional!
Don't Forget to Step Back
Here's a little tip that can make a BIG difference:
Step away from your painting every now and then.
It's easy to get caught up in the tiny details when you're working up close.
Set your brush down, take a few steps back, and look at your project from a distance.
Does your pumpkin still look flat?
If so, you may need a little more contrast between your shadow and highlight.
You don't necessarily need more colors. You may simply need to make your light a little lighter or your shadow a little darker.
Keep It Simple
Sometimes we think creating dimension means using lots and lots of paint colors.
It doesn't.
A few intentional changes between light and dark can bring your painting to life.
And isn't that encouraging?
You don't need every color in the paint aisle.
You just need to learn how to use the colors you already have.
So the next time something you're painting feels a little flat, don't immediately reach for another color.
Try reaching for your light and dark instead.
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Want to create your own harvest porch leaner?
Inside Creative Hearts Studio, I walk you through the exact steps with an included supply list and color list to create your porch leaner.
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