Course Outline Week 1 — Introduction to Palette Knives & Materials •Exploring different types of palette knives: shapes, sizes, and their uses •Understanding the philosophy behind the tool and its vast creative possibilities •Essential materials for working with a palette knife (paints, mediums, supports) •Hands-on exercises to master basic strokes, layering, and control Week 2 — Controlling Form: From Simple Shapes to Complex Structures •Techniques for building both simple and intricate forms using the palette knife •Mastering edge control and pressure techniques for varied textures •Color mixing directly on the canvas vs. the palette •Practice: step-by-step creation of a simple still life using the palette knife Week 3 — Gradients & Textures: Advanced Techniques •Creating smooth gradients and bold textural effects •Exploring layering techniques for depth and dimension •Color transitions and blending directly with the knife •Practice: complex still life focusing on gradients and color transitions Week 4 — Combining Brush & Palette Knife Techniques •Using brushes and palette knives together for complex compositions •How to blend colors and textures between the two tools •Managing transitions between soft blends and bold textures •Practice: landscape painting utilizing both brushwork and knife techniques Week 5 — Fine Details with the Palette Knife •Techniques for creating small, intricate details using the knife’s edge •Exploring unconventional uses of the palette knife for unique effects •Practice: detailed still life with focus on precision and layered textures Week 6 — The Palette Knife as a Tool for Emphasis & Highlights •Using the knife to create focal points and highlight areas •Building contrast and guiding the viewer’s eye •Practice: urban cityscape using brushwork as the base and palette knife for final accents Week 7 — Impasto Technique: Bold, Thick Layers •Understanding the impasto style and how to use heavy textures creatively •Working with multiple palette knives for varied effects •Practice: multi-layered still life with rich, expressive textures using impasto Week 8 — Final Project: Complete Landscape •Creating a detailed landscape using all learned techniques •Combining brushwork and palette knife textures for a dynamic finish •Emphasis on light, depth, and textural contrast •Final critique and personalized feedback By the end of this course, you will: •Master the fundamentals and advanced techniques of palette knife oil painting •Confidently create complex textures, gradients, and fine details •Understand how to combine brushwork and palette knife for dynamic compositions •Complete a polished final project that showcases depth, contrast, and unique textures Transform your oil paintings with bold strokes, rich textures, and the expressive power of the palette knife.