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How to Give a Painting a Misty Finish

Misty-looking paintings require less sharp details on the canvas background. This is because on foggy days, visibility is less sharp than on sunny days. Obtaining this effect is an interesting way to add mystery, a sense of sadness or peace to your artwork. It can also add a hint of suspense, distance or serenity to the painting. Creating the misty finish is not challenging -- even for a beginner -- but it does require the right background and final color washes of your paint medium.

Things You'll Need

Artist's paintbrushes
Dull or opaque paint colors
White acrylic paint
Plastic cup
Turpentine (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Paint the background in dull colors if you want the entire painting to have a misty effect. Use a dry brush and circular strokes to apply the paint. Few details are necessary for the distant background, although it is wise to add more details as you depict closer objects with the brush. Allow the painting to dry completely.
- 2
  Mix white acrylic paint with water in a plastic cup until it has the consistency of water color. Start with a ratio of equal parts water and paint.
- 3
  Apply the color wash over the entire painting with a large artist paintbrush. Sweep the color over the canvas with broad strokes. Allow the color wash to dry thoroughly. Add other coats if more of the effect is necessary to arrive at the look you desire. Allow time for each coat to dry before adding another one.
- 4
  Dip your dry paintbrush into a small amount of white paint if you only want a misty effect at the bottom of shrubbery or other objects. Use a circular stroke starting at the base of the shrubbery and work your way up the painting. Do this until the white no longer shows on the canvas.

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