Most of us have dabbled in painting a few times in our lives. The medium that you select to paint with is a fundamental choice that has to be made during the planning phase of your project. Typically, painting is done on a canvas or other flat surface using a carefully chosen medium. Watercolors, acrylics, and charcoal are the most popular media that are used.

For those looking for something unique there is a groundbreaking new technique that involves using smoke as a medium. This technique is called fumage or painting with smoke. Using smoke that came from candles so that one could create pictures is a technique that was first used by Wolfgang Paalen. You might be simply mesmerized by the resulting images that you can design using smoke painting. For those who find themselves curious about this trendy technique, the following tips should be of great interest.

Take the time to visualize your desired design in your thoughts. As with any creative undertaking, the initial step that should be performed is visualization. Although many people can, not all people can imagine what they want to create in their minds. Thus, it is a good idea to visualize the overall picture that you want to achieve by manually sketching the design or by using a form of computer software that will allow you to produce a rough sketch. Given the nature of the medium, keep your designs uncomplicated and/or abstract (e.g., simple shapes, human forms).

Assemble the materials that you will need for the project. You may consider tools like candles or a kerosene lamp to create minimal smoke for this project. Because this project is for those who are unfamiliar with the technique, candles of various wick lengths and thicknesses are optimal. This is because longer wicks produce smoother patterns, while shorter ones produce solid and dark shades and forms. Using these will allow you to come up with varied images with different intensities or shading. Other than the candles, you will also require a canvas and protective goggles and gloves for your eyes and hands.

Beginning the process. It cannot be stressed enough how very important it is that you take safety into consideration; wearing goggles and gloves is an excellent start, but you want to also consider your surroundings and whether or not anything is flammable, since you are working with candles. You must prop up your canvas so that will allow you to conveniently move the the canvas about as you create. You might need to paint from the side or beneath the canvas. Next, begin painting by using any of your chosen candles to apply the shading. To make different shades, keep in mind that the angle and speed that you move the candle flame across the surface is important. A few strokes on another canvas can help you become more confident in your abilities prior to beginning your real project. You must let your creativity flow and try out different ways to produce images using fumage.

Finishing touches are important. Once you are finished, do not forget to spray fixative on your canvas. This will help to maintain the image that you have designed.

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