Beginner guide

A calmer way to start painting.

Huely removes the blank-canvas guesswork. Follow the project’s own painting order, work from large shapes to small accents, and correct one clear difference at a time.

The Huely method

Five stages, in order

  1. 1

    Simplify the reference

    Start in Oil view to see the large shapes. Use Original only when a small edge or detail needs clarification.

  2. 2

    Transfer the big shapes

    Use the grid or center guides to place the subject. Check proportions before committing to details.

  3. 3

    Block in the largest color

    Cover the broad base area loosely first. It gives every shadow, mid-tone, and highlight somewhere to belong.

  4. 4

    Build dark to light

    Place the shadows next, shape the mid-tones, and keep the cleanest lights until the end.

  5. 5

    Compare, adjust, finish

    Photograph the canvas, use Split or Overlay, then correct the largest difference before adding tiny accents.

Quick lessons

When you feel stuck

01Mixing a target color

Open Paint Lab, paste or choose the target, and begin with Huely's suggested parts. Mix a small test dab. If it is too dark, add light paint gradually; if too dull, add a little of the stronger color rather than more of everything.

02Creating depth

Depth comes mainly from value relationships. Establish the dark shape first, then place a related mid-tone beside it. Add a cooler or softer color as forms move away, and reserve sharp light-dark edges for the focal area.

03Knowing when a color is done

Step back from the canvas. If the color has the right lightness, covers the intended shape, and supports nearby colors, mark it complete. Exact hue matters less than the overall light-dark structure.

04Using a canvas photo well

Photograph both canvas and reference in even light, as straight-on as possible. Split view reveals drawing shifts; Overlay reveals size and alignment; Side by side is best for judging color and finish.

Ready to practice?

Tap + below to choose a reference.