One of the questions I get asked most often about cold wax painting is: How do you create those thin lines?
Lines can add so much interest to a painting. They can bring movement, connect different areas, add little details or create contrast with the softer shapes and layers underneath.
But when you're working with cold wax and oils, drawing a fine line isn't always as straightforward as you might think!
There are two techniques I use to create lines in my cold wax paintings: the direct method and the indirect method. In the video below, I'll show you how both work and share some of the drawing tools I love to use.
Two ways to create lines in cold wax paintings
The direct method is exactly what it sounds like: you draw directly onto the surface of your painting using a suitable drawing tool.
The indirect method is a little different. Instead of drawing directly onto the painting, you create the lines separately and transfer them onto the surface. I especially love this technique because it creates such subtle, delicate lines.
I often use the indirect method when I'm building the first layers of a painting. The lines become part of the underlying layers, adding interest and detail without taking over the painting. I love the way they can peek through as I add more layers of colour and texture.
Watch the video below to see both techniques in action and discover which one you prefer!
My favourite drawing tools for cold wax painting
There are lots of materials you can experiment with to create lines, and they all have their own character. Here are three of the tools I use regularly in my studio.
Marabu Art Crayons
I love using Marabu Art Crayons to add expressive lines and marks to my paintings. They're fun to work with and give you a different kind of mark from a brush or palette knife.
Neocolor II
Neocolor II water-soluble wax pastels are another favourite. They offer lots of possibilities for drawing and mark-making, allowing you to add interesting lines and details to your work.
R&F Pigment Sticks
R&F Pigment Sticks are oil-based paint sticks that are great for creating more painterly marks. They offer another way to introduce lines into your cold wax and oil paintings.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different tools. Sometimes, a few simple lines can make a big difference to a painting!
Download your free Cold Wax Art Supply Guide
Not sure which materials to try first? I've created a free Cold Wax Art Supply Guide to help you explore the materials you can use in your cold wax painting practice.
Click the button below to download your copy and keep it handy in your studio.
Download the free Cold Wax Art Supply Guide
Want to explore more cold wax techniques?
If you enjoy experimenting with texture, discovering new materials and finding your own way of working, you might also love The Texture Lab, my monthly membership for artists who want to explore cold wax, acrylics and mixed media.
Inside, you'll find painting classes, creative experiments and inspiration to help you play with layers, texture, colour and mark-making — all at your own pace.
Come and have a look inside The Texture Lab and see if it's the right place for you.
And if you have a question about cold wax painting, don't hesitate to get in touch. I'd love to hear from you!
