Thursday, October 3, 2019

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Make a Good Podcast

Posted: 03 Oct 2019 05:00 PM PDT

It's pretty easy to start up a podcast and make a few episodes—all you need is some basic audio recording and editing equipment. To make a good podcast, though, requires a strong concept, a dedication to quality, and the enthusiasm to connect with listeners. Seek inspiration from podcasts and podcasters you like, but make your podcast something that suits your passion and goals. And don't forget to have fun with it!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Creating Interesting Content

  1. Listen to podcasts for ideas and inspiration. If you're interested in making a podcast, you probably already like listening to them. Look for common factors in the podcasts you like listening to, and use them to help you brainstorm the format and focus for your own podcast.[1]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 1.jpg
    • For instance, do you prefer true crime or humor podcasts? Do you like podcasts with one, two, or many hosts, and with or without guests? How long do your favorite podcast episodes tend to run, and how often do new episodes come out?
    • Get inspiration from other podcasts, but don't try to copy their success. Maybe, for instance, you could focus your true crime podcast on historical (but relatively unknown) crimes rather than recent ones.
  2. Choose a podcast topic that you're passionate about. There's no magic formula for making a hit podcast that draws in a huge audience. Your best bet is to create a podcast that covers material you're excited about, that you'll have fun discussing, and that you'd want to listen to. That way, no matter how many other people end up tuning in to your show, you'll produce something that you can be proud of.[2]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 2.jpg
    • For instance, if you have a passion for cinema history, you might develop a podcast that uses each episode to delve into a classic movie that may be new to your listeners.
    • If you read interviews with well-known podcasters, you'll find that many of them have no clue why their podcast is a hit. However, they'll nearly always say that they really enjoy making their podcasts.
  3. Determine which format suits your topic and style. There are no rules when it comes to making a podcast, which is, of course, one of the format's most appealing qualities. That said, podcasts do tend to follow one of several common formats, including:[3]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 3.jpg
    • Interview, in which the host or hosts chat with one or more guests.
    • Monologue, in which a single host speaks on a given topic.
    • Multiple host, in which two or more hosts banter back and forth.
    • Narrative, which is similar to a monologue but focuses on a particular story.
    • Mixed, which simply means that the format of the podcast can vary by episode.
  4. Put in far more time preparing than you do recording. Sure, you can make a podcast by simply hitting "record" and saying whatever comes to mind into your mic. But good podcasts—even unscripted ones—require a great deal of research, learning, and preparation. Many podcasters spend at least 10 hours preparing for every hour of podcast they record.[4]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 4.jpg
    • If you're relating a story or analyzing a topic, you need to research the issue in detail. Listeners must be able to hear and feel your mastery of the topic.
    • If you're interviewing someone, take the time to learn as much as you can about them, and, if possible, interact with them beforehand to build a rapport.
    • Even if you want your podcast to sound "off the cuff," you should still have a solid preliminary grasp on any topics you might plan to cover.
  5. Write a script or sketch out the content for your podcast. Scripting or sketching should make up the most important part of your prep time. That way, you can be confident in what you want to say and how you want to convey it, without having to overdo it on the editing and re-recording afterwards.[5]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 5.jpg
    • For a scripted podcast, write, revise, and rewrite your script several times, and have people you trust read it over for clarity and style. Then, practice it several times so you sound like you're speaking naturally (and not just reading a script) during the podcast.
    • For an unscripted podcast, sketch out the broad strokes of what will be covered, when, and how. Leave lots of room for improvisation, but give yourself and any co-hosts or guests a framework to work with.
  6. Pretend you're talking to a single member of your target audience. This is one of the keys to a great podcast—you want each listener to feel like you're speaking directly to them. Script, sketch, and perform your podcast with an image of your ideal listener in your mind.[6]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 6.jpg
    • Imagining your target listener will help you shape the terminology you use and the overall tone of your podcast. For instance, if you're making an astronomy podcast for people who don't know much about the subject, you'll want to simplify the terminology you use.
    • If you don't have a target audience in mind, or simply want to aim for an audience of "anyone," picture your listener as a friend or family member who you know well. Would your podcast resonate with them? Would it feel like you were communicating directly with them?

[Edit]Producing Your Podcast

  1. Gather the necessary recording hardware for your podcast. In theory, you could record and upload a podcast using nothing more than your smartphone. At the other end of the spectrum, you could make your podcast in a recording studio with state-of-the-art equipment. To make a podcast of respectable quality without spending a fortune, you'll want to aim for somewhere between these two extremes. Try to acquire essential pieces of equipment, like the following:[7]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 7.jpg
    • A laptop or desktop computer. Practically any model will have the capabilities you need to create a podcast, although some higher-end computers may come with better audio production capabilities.
    • A microphone. A mic that attaches to your computer's USB port will work, or you may want to consider an analog mic that uses an audio interface to connect to your computer.
    • Headphones. Here again, a basic model will do, or you may want to invest in higher-end equipment.
    • A pop filter and mic stand. These aren't essential, but the pop filter (basically a screen placed between your mouth and the mic) will definitely improve your podcast's audio quality.
    • A sound mixing board. This is another non-essential option, but it will enable you to produce much higher audio quality.
  2. Record your podcast in a room with at least basic soundproofing. Using a recording studio probably isn't in the budget for your podcast. In reality, recording in your bedroom or basement will work out fine if you take some simple soundproofing measures like hanging curtains and laying down thick carpet.[8]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 8.jpg
    • Even small soundproofing measures will noticeably improve the audio quality of your podcast.
  3. Use DAW software to edit your podcast audio. Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software enables you to edit and fine-tune your podcast recording. Many desktop and laptop computers come with DAW software, or you can choose one of many software options.[9]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 9.jpg
    • Free or low-cost DAW options will typically get the job done and may be all you need for a basic podcast. However, higher-end DAW options may give you far greater capabilities to produce a professional-sounding podcast.
    • GarageBand DAW software comes pre-loaded on Macs. Magix Music Maker Plus is a common starter DAW for PCs, with a free trial option.
    • No matter what DAW software you choose, use it to its fullest potential! Take the time to fine-tune the sound quality and edit out things like long pauses or dull tangents.
  4. Choose a podcast hosting service that suits your needs. Just like with your hardware and software, you'll have many options to choose from when it comes to podcast hosting services, which are digital platforms that allow you to share your podcast with listeners. Some are free, while others require payment, but paid options aren't necessarily always superior. Evaluate several services and choose the one that suits the needs of your particular podcast.[10]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 10.jpg
    • You'll upload your podcast to your chosen hosting service's site, and they'll create an RSS feed that will alert listeners to new episodes and enable them to download the content.
    • Take a closer look at services that host podcasts that you enjoy, host podcasts similar in content or style to yours, and offer the type and level of customer support you need.
    • Talk to other podcasters you know for recommendations.
    • SoundCloud, Libsyn, and Fireside are just a few of the many hosting service options.
  5. Produce consistent content on a consistent schedule. Podcast listeners want to know that they can put on their headphones every Monday morning (or Wednesday evening, or whenever else) and have a fresh, high-quality edition of their favorite podcast ready to go. Once you decide on a production schedule—weekly, for instance—stick to it. If you're not there when listeners expect you to be, they'll look elsewhere.[11]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 11.jpg
    • Treat every episode like it's your first and most important podcast. You never know how many first-time listeners are tuning in, and you don't want to turn them (or longtime listeners) off with substandard content.
    • Your podcast isn't likely to be more popular if you release new episodes on Mondays or Fridays, or at 8 am or 8 pm. What matters most is that you stick to the release schedule that you set.
    • If you can't make an episode deadline, complete it as soon as possible after the deadline.

[Edit]Building Your Audience

  1. Let your audience know that you want to engage with them. If you want to build a dedicated audience, don't let your podcast be a one-way street. Give your audience numerous ways to get in touch with you. This will help them feel like they have a real connection to your podcast, and it gives you valuable audience feedback.[12]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 12.jpg
    • Of course, social media is a great way to engage with listeners. You can either interact through your personal social media presence or create one specifically tied to your podcast.
    • Don't ignore options like email, voice mail, and maybe even old-fashioned fan mail.
  2. Promote your podcast as many different ways as possible. In addition to having a strong social media presence, rely on things like old fashioned word-of-mouth. Don't be shy about telling everyone you know to give your podcast a listen. And ask them to tell their friends![13]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 14.jpg
    • Give anything a try. Print up flyers for the local coffee shop and bookstore. Make a T-shirt and wear it around town. Have fun with spreading the word!
  3. Build name recognition as a guest on other podcasts. Podcasters tend to view each other more as comrades than competitors, so feel free to ask around for advice. Better yet, see if you can wrangle a spot as a guest on one or more other podcasts—the more popular, the better![14]
    Make a Good Podcast Step 13.jpg
    • As a guest, you can promote your own podcast to your host's audience.
    • Return the favor and invite your host to be a guest on your podcast!
    • Take the opportunity seriously—if you come off as well-spoken, interesting, and charming as a guest, there's a better chance you'll draw listeners to your podcast.

[Edit]References

How to Toast Pecans

Posted: 03 Oct 2019 09:00 AM PDT

If you've ever bitten into a baked good only to find a chewy pecan, you know how important toasting nuts is. Gently toasting pecans in the oven, stove, or microwave will intensify their flavor and make them extra crunchy. If you're using the toasted pecans in a recipe, just heat them with a little butter to give them a rich flavor. You can also play around with seasoning them. Try toasting pecans with cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or sugar for a healthy snack that's packed with flavor.

[Edit]Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon (14 g) of butter
  • 1 cup (65 g) of pecan halves
  • 3/4 teaspoon (4 g) of kosher salt
  • 2 pinches of ground red pepper, optional

Makes 1 cup (65 g) of pecan halves

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Oven-Roasting Pecans

  1. Preheat the oven to and melt the butter. You can heat 1 tablespoon (14 g) of butter in a very small saucepan over low heat or microwave it for about 10 seconds until it melts.[1]
    Toast Pecans Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • You can use salted or unsalted butter, but you'll have more control over flavor if you use unsalted.
  2. Toss the pecans with the butter and spread them on a baking sheet. Put 1 cup (65 g) of pecan halves into a bowl and pour the melted butter on them. Then, stir the pecans so they're coated and transfer them to a rimmed baking sheet.[2]

    • Arrange the pecans so they're in a single layer. This will help them toast evenly.
  3. Bake the pecans for 25 minutes and stir them at the halfway point. Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and cook the pecans for about 12 minutes. Then, put on oven mitts and remove the sheet. Use a spoon or flat spatula to stir the pecans and put the sheet back into the oven. Toast the nuts for another 12 to 13 minutes.[3]
    Toast Pecans Step 3 Version 3.jpg
    • The pecans will smell fragrant and nutty once they've finished toasting.
  4. Remove the sheet and season the pecans with salt and red pepper. Turn off the oven and carefully remove the baking sheet. Sprinkle 3/4 teaspoon (4 g) of kosher salt and 2 pinches of ground red pepper over the nuts.[4]

    • If you don't want the heat from the red pepper, you can leave it out or substitute a different seasoning, such as ground cumin or rosemary.
  5. Cool the pecans on the baking sheet. Stir the toasted pecans and then leave them on the baking sheet until they're completely cool. If you try to eat a hot pecan, it will be chewy instead of crunchy.[5]
    Toast Pecans Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • Store the cooled, toasted pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

[Edit]Toasting Pecans on the Stove

  1. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Set a skillet on the stove and put 1 tablespoon (14 g) of butter into it. Then, turn the burner to medium and let the butter melt.[6]

    • If you prefer, substitute olive, canola, or coconut oil for the butter.
  2. Stir in the pecans, salt, and red pepper. Add 1 cup (65 g) of pecan halves to the skillet along with 3/4 teaspoon (4 g) of kosher salt. If you'd like the pecans to have a little spice to them, stir in 2 pinches of ground red pepper.[7]

    • If you'd like to double this recipe, toast the pecans in batches instead of crowding the skillet.
  3. Cook the pecans for 2 to 5 minutes and stir them frequently. Keep the burner turned to medium and stir the pecans about every minute to prevent them from burning. Toast the nuts until they smell fragrant and look darker.[8]

    • If you stored the pecans in the refrigerator or freezer, they may take an extra minute to toast.
  4. Transfer the pecans to a plate and cool them completely. Since pecans can continue to cook in the skillet even after you've turned off the burner, put the toasted nuts onto a plate. Set them aside to cool before you enjoy them.[9]
    Toast Pecans Step 9 Version 3.jpg
    • Put the cooled nuts into an airtight container at room temperature and store them for up to 1 week.

[Edit]Using the Microwave

  1. Mix the butter, pecans, salt, and pepper in a dish. Get out a shallow microwave-safe dish, such as a pie plate, and put 1 cup (65 g) of pecan halves into it. Stir in 1 tablespoon (14 g) of melted butter and 3/4 teaspoon (4 g) of kosher salt. If you'd like to give the nuts a little heat, add 2 pinches of ground red pepper.[10]

    • Consider using seasoned salt instead of kosher salt for additional flavor.
  2. Microwave the nuts for 1 minute. Put the dish of buttered pecans into the microwave and heat them at full power for 1 minute. You'll probably start to smell the nuts and they'll begin to turn a little darker.[11]
    Toast Pecans Step 11 Version 3.jpg
  3. Heat the pecans for 1 to 2 minutes and stir them every 30 seconds. Open the microwave and stir the pecans before heating them for another 30 seconds. Then, stir the nuts again. Continue to microwave the pecans for a total of 1 to 2 more minutes or until they smell fragrant and toasted.[12]

    • It's important to stir the nuts frequently as they're toasting to prevent them from burning on 1 side.
  4. Cool the pecans before you use them. Wear oven mitts to take the pecans out of the microwave since the dish will be hot. Transfer the nuts to a rimmed baking sheet or plate and let them cool completely.[13]
    Toast Pecans Step 13 Version 3.jpg
    • Put the cooled pecans into an airtight container and store them for up to 1 week.

[Edit]Tips

  • If you're toasting chopped pecans, heat them for 2 to 3 minutes less since they'll cook faster than whole pecans.
  • Always toast pecans before adding them to pies, cakes, or candies, such as pecan turtles. Toasting the nuts ensures they'll add a nice crunch to the food you're baking.[14]
  • For a vegan alternative, substitute coconut oil for the butter.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Oven-Roasting Pecans

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rimmed baking sheet
  • Bowl
  • Spoon
  • Oven mitts

[Edit]Toasting Pecans on the Stove

  • Skillet
  • Spoon
  • Plate

[Edit]Using the Microwave

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Microwave-safe dish
  • Oven mitts
  • Plate or rimmed baking sheet
  • Spoon or flat spatula

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

How to Paint a Mural

Posted: 03 Oct 2019 01:00 AM PDT

Painting a mural takes plenty of preparation, equipment, and effort. A mural is basically a large work of art placed directly on a wall. It requires a lot of the same basic techniques as smaller paintings, but on a larger scale. With a mural, you often need to outline your design with a grid and then lay down paint strategically so the colors dry when you're done with them. Murals are often painted in layers, then finished with a varnish to be preserved for long-term enjoyment.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Cleaning and Protecting the Painting Area

  1. Choose a suitable location for your mural. Artists paint murals on large, visible surfaces. The easiest surface to work with is a flat wall without a lot of obstructions. The amount of wall space you need depends on the size of the mural you plan on creating. Factor in your ability to access higher parts of the surface you wish to paint.[1]
    Paint a Mural Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • Dedicated painters make just about any surface work. Some painters prefer corrugated metal, brick, or even ceilings. A bumpy surface can give your mural a unique texture.
    • Remember to get permission if you don't own the wall space. You have free reign inside your home if you own it, but ask before you paint on someone else's property or a public space.
  2. Set up scaffolding or a ladder if you can't reach the entire wall. For most mural projects, you will need some sort of boost to reach high areas. Use a small stepladder to access areas you can't otherwise reach. If you need to go up high, set up scaffolding or rent an aerial lift.[2]
    Paint a Mural Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • Check with local home improvement stores and construction supply companies. Many rent scaffolding that will allow you to paint high areas safely.
    • If your painting surface is low enough, you don't need scaffolding. Paint while standing.
  3. Clean the wall with soap and water to remove impurities. Check the wall over for signs of damage, difficult stains, and other issues you need to treat before you begin. Any debris on the wall will show up in your work. Mix about of a basic liquid laundry detergent or dish soap into a bucket of water, then scrub the wall with a rag. Let the wall dry before you start painting.[3]
    Paint a Mural Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • For mold, grease, and other stubborn stains, get trisodium phosphate from a home improvement store. Mix it in water to create an effective cleaning solution.
    • Repair damaged areas as needed. For example, fill in cracks with spackle. Paint over damaged areas you can't repair or incorporate them into your design.
  4. Protect adjacent surfaces with painter's tape and a drop cloth if needed. Use blue painter's tape to form a border around your mural surface. Set out a drop cloth underneath the wall to catch dripping paint.[4]
    Paint a Mural Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • Painter's tape and drop cloths are available at most home improvement stores.
  5. Pre-paint the wall a solid color if you need to make it uniform. This base layer of paint creates a background for your mural. It can be multiple colors if you have a design for your mural in mind. If not, try a light color like white that is easy to paint over later.[5]
    Paint a Mural Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • For example, if you're planning on painting a landscape, you might paint the sky a pale blue, then paint the foreground green. At this point, you're only creating a background, so forget about adding small details.
    • To cover a lot of space quickly, use tools like a paint roller, sprayer, or even a sponge.

[Edit]Pre-Sketching Your Design

  1. Draw your mural design on a piece of paper before painting it. Plan your mural design by making a basic mock-up. Use a pencil, pen, and any other tools you feel comfortable drawing with. Some common themes of murals include landscapes, fictional characters, sports, and cities. You don't need to color the image or factor in the mural's size yet.[6]
    Paint a Mural Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • This is a template for your finished mural. You will need it if you plan on transferring the design to the mural using a grid.
    • To come up with a mural theme, ask anyone you're working with, including the building owner. If you're working in your own home, think of what inspires you, what you enjoy drawing, and what you want to look at every day.
  2. Measure the wall space you have available for your mural. Climb up your ladder or scaffolding to reach the top part of your mural. Using a tape measure, measure from the ceiling to the bottom edge of the wall. Also, measure across the wall to find out how much wall space you have to work with.
    Paint a Mural Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • If you are unable to measure a big wall, ask the property owner for a blueprint or other documents containing the measurements. You may need to estimate the wall's dimensions.
  3. Create a grid over the design you drew on paper. Using a pencil and ruler, make a series of intersecting horizontal and vertical lines. Measure your template paper as needed to figure out its size and space the grid lines evenly. As a general rule of thumb, space the grid lines apart, since grids of this size work for just about any mural.[7]
    Paint a Mural Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • Factor in the size of the wall when making the grid. For larger, more complex murals, divide up the sketch with more frequent grid lines.
    • Each grid box contains a small part of your image that you will transfer to the finished mural later.
  4. Draw a grid on the mural wall in chalk. Do a little math in order to transfer the grid properly from your paper to the wall. Multiply the reference drawing's dimensions to blow them up to the size of the wall. The template grid and the wall grid need to be at a 1 to 1 ratio, having an equal number of lines spaced a proportionate distance apart.[8]
    Paint a Mural Step 9 Version 2.jpg
    • For example, if the wall is , break the paper down into a squares. Every on the paper equals of wall space.
    • For instance, your reference image is . Your wall is . If you multiply the dimensions by 2, making each grid on the wall , you can easily transfer your design.

[Edit]Transferring and Finalizing Your Design

  1. Outline your mural's main features in pencil on the wall. Choose a quality woodworking pencil, then place details like trees, clouds, and characters on the wall. Follow the grid system to transfer your design to the wall. Look at your drawing to find out what cell the detail is in, then transfer it to the corresponding cell on the wall.[9]
    Paint a Mural Step 10 Version 2.jpg
    • For example, you might have a cloud in the upper left corner of your sketch. Draw it again in the upper left corner of the grid on the wall.
    • Another way to do this is by projecting an image onto the wall. Use a digital projector to transfer images from your computer or another device. Then, sketch your outline over the projected image.[10]
    • If you're working on a colored wall, use a permanent marker or chalk instead of a pencil.
  2. Draw fine details onto your sketch with an art pencil. Purchase a relatively dark pencil so your outlines show up on the wall. Choose a pencil based on its lead rating. A 2B pencil is often a great choice to create dark lines that don't smudge easily. Continue filling in the mural grid according to the template you drew. Use the art pencil for facial features, individual tree branches, and other small details that emphasize your mural's overall design.[11]
    Paint a Mural Step 11.jpg
    • The complexity of your design influences how much time you spend sketching. If you're doing characters, you're probably better off sketching all of the fine details.
    • If you're confident in your abilities, you can even try sketching or painting details freehand. You could add new components to your work that you didn't include in your initial design.
  3. Pick an acrylic paint to resist tough outdoor weather. Try a 100% acrylic product with a high lightfastness rating. That way, your mural won't fade or change colors over time. Basic outdoor wall paint with an eggshell finish is a great choice for most projects.[12]
    Paint a Mural Step 12.jpg
    • Oil-based alkyd enamel or polyurethane enamel paints are also an option. Oil-based paints produce richer, darker colors, but tend to yellow as they age.
  4. Choose latex paints for an inexpensive way to cover indoor wall space. Latex paints offer easier cleanup, lower costs, and less odor. Most household latex wall paints resist water and don't crack easily over time. They also tend to mix well with acrylic paints to give you unique shades for your wall. Choose paint with an eggshell finish to avoid glare.[13]
    Paint a Mural Step 13.jpg
    • Latex is an inexpensive option for covering large backgrounds. If you like acrylic paint, consider switching to acrylics for detailed work.
    • Be aware of the ventilation in your home. Open up nearby windows and turn on fans to blow out paint fumes. Wear a dust mask as you work.
  5. Mix your paint colors as needed while you paint. Although you need a lot of paint for a mural, don't go overboard while mixing. To avoid wasted paint, focus on a single color at a time. Mix enough paint for the area you need to cover. That way, you create a consistent color that won't dry out before you're able to finish layering it on the mural.[14]
    Paint a Mural Step 14.jpg
    • Start with the colors for the background, then move on to large shapes and details in your design.
    • If you're using a paint roller, mix paint in a paint roller tray. Bowls and even baking trays are great for mixing paint for brush painting. Use palettes, trays, or paper plates to mix multiple colors on a single surface.
  6. Paint over the largest areas in your design with a paint roller or sprayer. Work from the "back" of your picture to the front. Lay down the base colors in your design first, taking care to keep clean transition edges from one color to the next. Try to mix as much of a color as you need and apply it in a single go to prevent the paint from drying out before you're done.[15]
    Paint a Mural Step 15.jpg
    • Rollers and sprayers are best for covering large, wide areas. Use a paintbrush to color small and difficult areas, such as a character's face or clothing.
    • Always allow each color to dry before proceeding to the adjacent color unless you need to blend them together. Blending creates shading and intermediate colors for your design.
  7. Wait at least 30 minutes before adding a fresh layer of paint. You probably will need to go over each layer of paint 2 to 3 more times to get it to look perfect. Quality acrylic and latex house paints dry within about an hour. The drying time varies depending on the paint you have, so consult the manufacturer's recommendations if possible.[16]
    Paint a Mural Step 16.jpg
    • Weather affects the time it takes for paint to dry. Set aside extra time for the paint to dry in cold or humid environments.
    • Some oil paints require as long as 24 hours to cure before you are able to touch them up.
  8. Paint in the remaining details with different brush sizes. Get a few different brushes to tackle all of the detail work your design calls for. Any brush you use to paint on paper or canvas will work. Synthetic brushes are usually a good choice if you need something that will last a while. Save the largest brush for coloring open spaces and the smallest brush for the most intricate details.[17]
    Paint a Mural Step 17.jpg
    • For example, if you're painting a tree, use a large brush, roller, or sprayer for the trunk and limbs. Switch to a smaller brush for tiny branches and twigs.
    • Remember to wait at least 30 minutes for the previous paint layer to dry or else the colors will blend together.
  9. Add outlines, shadows, and other details with black paint. Choose an appropriate paintbrush, usually the smallest one. These details are usually fine, so they are tough to add on a large scale without mistakes. If you do make a mistake, wipe up the paint carefully with soap and water or paint over it again when it dries.[18]
    Paint a Mural Step 18.jpg
    • For example, if you drew characters in your mural, adding outlines distinguishes them from the background colors.

[Edit]Completing and Sealing the Mural

  1. Clean up your work by painting over mistakes. Step back and take a look at your work. You will probably notice a few spots where the colors didn't blend well, the paint ran, or some other issue. Most mistakes are pretty simple to fix. Let the mural dry, then go over the damaged spots with another layer of paint.[19]
    Paint a Mural Step 19.jpg
    • Mix new paint as needed to match the color you need to fix. Mixing an exact match is very difficult. Blend the new paint in with the old as much as possible.
  2. Wait about a week for the paint to dry completely. Paint feels dry to the touch within 24 hours or less, but that doesn't mean its ready for varnishing. Moisture may still be underneath the top layer. As a rule of thumb, wait at least a week. Some artists like to wait as long as 6 weeks to ensure the paint seals correctly.[20]
    Paint a Mural Step 20.jpg
    • The amount of time you need to wait varies depending on the paint you use and other factors. Thick coatings of paint take longer to dry out. Cold or damp environments also cause paint to dry more slowly.
    • Oil-based paints can take 6 months to a year to dry completely. If the paint feels dry to the touch after about 1 week, put a layer of varnish on it. Cover it with a final varnish after the paint finishes curing.
  3. Seal the mural with a clear varnish to protect it. Choose a clear, water-based, non-yellowing paint varnish. Matte or even satin varnishes work best since glossy varnishes look a little too shiny on murals. Mix the varnish with water to turn in into a paint. Then, use a wide paintbrush to coat the entire mural. Add a second coating after the varnish dries within a day to finish your mural.[21]
    Paint a Mural Step 21.jpg
    • Using a varnish protects the paint from debris and damage. Always use an acrylic varnish for outdoor murals.
    • Make sure the varnish is removable. If it is, you can scrub it off when you need to touch up the paint underneath it.

[Edit]Tips

  • Work slowly when painting a mural. You do need to cover a lot of space, but working too quickly leads to mistakes that take even more time to fix.
  • To clean up paint before it dries, blot it with a moist paper towel. If the towel is too wet, it may drip and leave streaks.
  • Clean up a mural with a paper towel or cloth dampened lightly in water. Avoid using scouring pads or harsh cleaners that can wear away the paint.
  • When sketching a design for a new mural, draw as much detail on the wall as possible. Check the drawing's proportions from a distance before you begin painting.
  • Rollers on long sticks are great if you have limited space, are on stairs, or don't have access to a ladder.

[Edit]Warnings

  • Paint fumes are dangerous, so wear a paint respirator and work in a ventilated area.
  • Use caution when working from high scaffolding or elevated positions. Work on level ground and get rid of distractions to avoid falling.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Sketching paper
  • Woodworking pencil, permanent marker, or chalk
  • 2B art pencil
  • Kneadable eraser
  • Paint
  • Paint mixing plates or trays
  • Paintbrushes
  • Rollers, sprayers, or alternative tools
  • Painter's tape
  • Drop sheet
  • Ruler or projector for outlining
  • Water-based varnish
  • Paper towels

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

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