Today’s Blog Post painting tip isn’t just about paint, it’s about life.
Let’s start with the brush.
Here are my favorites for beginners: You can grab them in my Amazon Shop!
FolkArt Brush Set
When you first pick up a paint brush, it’s tempting to hold on for dear life. The tighter you grip, the more “in control” you feel… except your brushstrokes end up stiff, flat, and a little lifeless.
But when you loosen that grip? Suddenly the paint flows, your strokes are free to dance across the canvas, and your whole piece feels alive with energy.
Here’s the breakdown:
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Tight grip = tight strokes. Usually stiff, sometimes scratchy, often coming from nerves or overthinking.
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Loose grip = loose strokes. Natural, expressive, full of movement, and way more fun.
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If you notice your hand clenching, pause. Wiggle your fingers. Take a breath. Remind yourself: it doesn’t have to be perfect.
And honestly? If you’ve ever dropped a brush or even sent one flying across the room, you’re not failing—you’re doing it right. That’s what letting go of tension looks like.
Get my FREE Paint Brush Guide and Glossary here:
The Bigger Picture
Here’s where the art lesson relates to real life.
We grip tightly when we’re afraid: afraid of messing up, afraid of disappointing ourselves, afraid of not measuring up.
But white-knuckling life (or art) only leaves us tense and exhausted.
When you loosen your grip—on expectations, outcomes, or even that relentless need for control—you leave room for something better: flow, freedom, surprise, and joy.
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Hold your brush lightly.
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Hold life lightly.
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Stop clenching so hard at the “what ifs” and “shoulds.”
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Remind yourself: it doesn’t have to be perfect.
Because just like on the canvas, when you ease up, the beauty starts to show.
I Challenge You This Week:
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Try painting while holding your brush farther back on the handle. Notice the looseness. Notice the movement.
Get some art inspiration on my Youtube Channel at Teresa's Spot for Art:
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Then, pick one place in your life where you’re gripping too tightly—maybe expectations of yourself, or how you think something should go—and ask: what would happen if I loosened my grip just a little?
Spoiler alert: chances are, things won’t fall apart. They might actually fall into place.
So, here’s your reminder for today: Let go. Breathe. Loosen your grip.
-teresa XO
