When applying paint in oil colour, there are various documented techniques for the way it is applied. One such technique is Scumbling, this refers to the effect that is created when paint is dragged across the surface so that it leave random areas where the underlying surface still shows through. The technique works best when very opaque (or body) colour is used, so that the surface is completely masked where the paint has been laid, which then creates a contrast between the original layer.
Different effects can be achieved by applying the paint as an impasto or quite thinly. Using a brush or a palette knife will change the way in which the surface is covered, producing other effects. The texture of the underlying layer is critical in the way the scumble performs, ideally the surface will have a degree of texture to ‘catch’ the colour, with the more exaggerated textures producing more pronounced effects. By definition, stippling using a stiff brush, is also a form of scumbling.
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Remember, pet portraits are for life, not just for Christmas!
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