Welcome to your Mermaid Paint Club step-by-step guide for painting for Spring Florals! Below you’ll find instructions to help you create your very own masterpiece.
I can’t wait to see your flowers! Post your painting and tag me @mermaidpaintclub #mermaidpaintclub.
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Get Ready to Create
Before you start painting, take a little time to create a cosy, creative space for yourself. Painting isn’t only about the finished piece—it’s also about nurturing your wellbeing while you create.
- Light a candle or play some music (see me playlist below)
- Lay out your supplies so everything is within reach
- Protect your space – cover your table with newspaper or an old cloth.
- Keep water & snacks handy – stay refreshed while you paint.
Before you dip your brush in paint, take a pause for yourself:
- Breathe deeply – Inhale slowly through your nose for 4 counts, hold for 2, then exhale through your mouth for 6 counts. Repeat a few times to settle your mind.
- Gentle stretch – Roll your shoulders, circle your wrists, or stretch your arms overhead to release any tension.
- Notice your posture – Sit comfortably, feet flat on the floor, and let your body feel supported.
- Set an intention – Whether it’s to relax, to play, or to simply enjoy the colors, give yourself permission to just be in the moment.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Before we dive into the steps, remember don’t stress about perfection, every painting has its own personality. Embrace those “happy accidents,” because unexpected brushstrokes can add charm and character. Most of all, enjoy the process—your flowers will be unique, and that’s what makes it so special!
Spring Florals – Painting Tips & Gentle Reminders 🌷
1. Let layers do the work
This painting really shines when you build it up slowly. If it starts looking a bit strange halfway through (which it probably will), don’t panic. Thin layers, left to dry in between, add depth and softness that you can’t get all at once. This is a trust the process kind of piece.
2. Speed up drying with a hairdryer (when needed)
If you’re short on time or feeling impatient, a hairdryer can really help between layers. Use it on a low heat setting, keep it moving, and hold it a little distance away from the canvas. This helps dry the paint evenly without blowing it around or cracking the surface.
3. Don’t rush – overnight drying is still your friend
Even with a hairdryer, some layers benefit from being left longer. If you feel tired or stuck, stopping and letting it dry overnight can completely change how it feels the next day. Fresh eyes make it much easier to see where to add highlights, shadows, and extra detail.
4. Create a beautiful purple-grey
One of my favourite colours in this piece is a soft purple-grey. To make it:
Start with your grey Add a small amount of pink Mix slowly until you get a muted, floral purple tone
This colour is perfect for adding gentle shadows to petals and gives the flowers a more natural, painterly look without feeling too bright.
5. Build flowers in stages
Begin with loose, simple flower shapes. Don’t worry about making them “perfect” at first. Once the base layer is dry, you can add definition, darker centres, and lighter highlights. Flowers often look best when they’re slightly wonky and free.
6. Use your finger (yes, really!)
Smudging paint in with your finger creates soft blends and dreamy textures, especially in petals and backgrounds. It takes the pressure off brush control and helps everything feel more organic and playful.
7. Step back regularly
Every now and then, put the brush down and look at your painting from a little distance. It helps you see the overall balance and reminds you that small details don’t need overworking.
8. There’s no wrong version
Every Spring Florals painting will look different – and that’s the magic. Let your colours mix, your layers overlap, and your flowers bloom in their own way.
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