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How to paint a moody abstract artwork

A bold blue and orange canvas print mounted on the wall, cream chair, grey rug and indoor plant

Overview

Keen to tap into one of the latest interior décor looks? The ‘Stormy Bay’ colour and design trend is all about natural materials, a seaside-inspired palette of elegant and moody shades, plus touches of refined metallics. This easy yet sophisticated D.I.Y. project captures the look perfectly to provide a calming aesthetic to your space

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. Always store products out of the reach of children and pets and always work in a well-ventilated area when working with paint. 

Steps

  1. 1

    Create a strong base colour

    Place a drop sheet over your work area in preparation. Using a paint brush, work with long strokes in one direction. Apply two coats of a bold base colour over the entire canvas, allowing the paint to dry after each coat.

    Tip: Stand the stretched canvas on end to paint the edges first, followed by the surface.

    A bold, blue paint being applied on a canvas with a paint brush
  2. 2

    Perfect your technique

    Pour the contrasting paint into a roller tray. Take a dry scrubbing brush and carefully dip the tips of the bristles in the paint and tap on the tray to remove excess. On a piece of scrap card, practise gently dragging the brush over the surface to create light strokes until you’re happy with your technique.

    Hand tapping dry scrubbing brush in roller paint tray
  3. 3

    Apply lowlights to your canvas painting

    Starting on one edge of the canvas and working in a horizontal direction, create ‘lowlight’ brush strokes with the contrasting paint until the surface of the canvas is covered. Allow the paint to dry.

    Hand applying horizontal, brown paint strokes to canvas
  4. 4

    Add highlights to your abstract art

    To create highlight brush strokes, stir Dulux Copper Effect paint well, then pour into a clean roller tray. Next, take a clean, dry scrubbing brush, and repeat the technique in Step #3, but apply the brush strokes in a vertical direction. Allow the paint to dry.

     

    Tip: If you’re having trouble selecting a colour, head in-store and speak with one of our friendly Team Members; they will be glad to help you out!
    Finished artwork laying on drop sheet with paint pots next to it
  5. 5

    Transform your interior

    Catch the Stormy Bay wave and be inspired by the ocean. We’ll show you how to update your home with a unique, moody palette and natural materials.

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.