If you’ve ever wondered why some of your oil paints cover beautifully while others seem see-through no matter how much you layer, this tutorial is for you! In our latest youtube video, Stephen explains the key differences between transparent, semi-transparent, and opaque oil paints and how understanding them can transform the way you paint. Here at The Gold Coast Art School we use Art Spectrum Artists quality Oil Paints.
Why Does Paint Transparency Matter?
Not all oil paints behave the same way. Opaque colours give you strong coverage, while transparent colours let the layers beneath shine through. Semi-transparent paints sit somewhere in between, offering flexibility depending on how you use them.
Knowing these differences can help you answer questions like:
- Why isn’t this colour covering well, even when applied thick?
- Which paints should I use for glazing?
- How do I know what to expect before I even dip my brush?
Just the other day, one of our students asked, “Why isn’t my paint covering properly?” Once we explained about the varying transparency of oil paints, it all clicked for her. Sometimes the answer lies not in technique, but in the paint itself.
3 Types of Oil Paint Transparency
- Opaque paints
Best for regular painting and colour mixing. They provide excellent coverage with no surprises. - Semi-transparent paints
Versatile paints that can be used for both painting and glazing, depending on your needs. - Transparent paints
Ideal for glazing techniques, allowing for luminous, layered effects. Not always the best choice for mixing, but they have unique strengths when used intentionally.
Behind the Scenes
This video has been a long time in the making! In fact, the red section was filmed months ago, while the yellow and blue sections were added more recently. We’re excited to finally share it with you, and we hope it gives you some real “Aha!” moments about your oil paints.
Key Takeaway
Every paint has its own “superpower.” By learning whether your colour is opaque, semi-transparent, or transparent, you’ll be able to:
- Get the coverage you want
- Avoid frustration with muddy layers
- Use glazes more effectively
- Choose paints with purpose
Watch the full tutorial on Youtube. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel, we’ve got more painting tutorials coming soon.
Want to take your oil painting further?
Our art school runs Beginner and Intermediate Art Courses, twice a year, where you can learn colour mixing, oil painting, glazing, and more with hands-on guidance from our experienced tutors. See our current Course Intake options here.