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Why Do My Ellipses Look Like Doughnuts? Plus 25 Solutions To Other Still Life Woes

Ken Follett

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Published in Why Do My Ellipses Look Like Doughnuts? Plus 25 Solutions To Other Still Life Painting Peeves: Colour Theory Tips And Techniques On Oil Painting Floral And More (Oil Painting Medic 2)

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Ellipses are supposed to be smooth, oval shapes. But sometimes, they end up looking more like doughnuts. This can be frustrating, especially if you're trying to create a realistic still life painting.

There are a few reasons why your ellipses might look like doughnuts. One possibility is that you're not using the correct brush size. A brush that is too small will make it difficult to create a smooth, even curve. A brush that is too large will make it difficult to control the shape of the ellipse.

Another possibility is that you're not using the correct brush technique. To create a smooth ellipse, you need to use a light touch and move the brush in a continuous motion. Don't try to force the brush to follow a specific path. Just let it flow naturally.

Why do My Ellipses Look Like Doughnuts? Plus 25 Solutions to Other Still Life Painting Peeves: Colour Theory, Tips and Techniques on Oil Painting Floral ... and More (Oil Painting Medic Book 2)

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Finally, it's important to make sure that you're using the correct type of paint. Some paints are more difficult to work with than others. If you're using a paint that is too thick, it will be difficult to create a smooth ellipse.

If you're still having trouble creating smooth ellipses, don't give up. With a little practice, you'll be able to master this technique.

In addition to the problem of doughnuts-shaped ellipses, there are a number of other common still life woes. Here are 25 solutions to these problems:

My still life paintings look flat. To add depth to your still life paintings, try using a variety of values. Dark values will recede into the background, while light values will come forward. You can also use overlapping objects to create a sense of depth.
My still life paintings look cluttered. To avoid cluttering your still life paintings, try to focus on a few key objects. Don't try to cram too many objects into the frame. Instead, choose a few objects that you find interesting and arrange them in a pleasing way.
My still life paintings look boring. To add interest to your still life paintings, try using a variety of colors and textures. You can also use props to add a touch of whimsy or drama.
My still life paintings look like they were painted by a child. To improve the quality of your still life paintings, try to use good brushwork. Pay attention to the shape and texture of your brushstrokes. Also, be sure to use the correct colors and values.
My still life paintings look like they were painted by a robot. To add a touch of personality to your still life paintings, try to experiment with different brushstrokes. You can also use your fingers or other tools to create unique effects.
My still life paintings look like they were painted by a machine. To add a sense of humanity to your still life paintings, try to include some personal touches. You can use objects that have sentimental value or paint scenes that are meaningful to you.
My still life paintings look like they were painted by a computer. To add a sense of organicness to your still life paintings, try to use natural materials. You can use real flowers, fruit, and vegetables as your subjects. You can also use natural light to illuminate your paintings.
My still life paintings look like they were painted by a camera. To add a sense of movement to your still life paintings, try to use dynamic poses. You can also use wind or other elements to create a sense of motion.
My still life paintings look like they were painted by a mirror. To add a sense of depth to your still life paintings, try to use multiple light sources. You can also use shadows to create a sense of depth.
My still life paintings look like they were painted by a microscope. To add a sense of intimacy to your still life paintings, try to focus on small objects. You can also use a shallow depth of field to create a sense of intimacy.
My still life paintings look like they were painted by a telescope. To add a sense of grandeur