Over years gone by, when discussing the painted arts, invariably one has heard comments regarding the correct way of doing things when painting a picture.    Why?    Because this is how it was done when Adam wore napkins, or it was the way the old masters painted.    Yes, without a doubt painters in ages past did pioneer, and perfect many methods, which are still very much applicable today.    But hey!    We are now in the 21st century.    If the old masters had todays equipment one can be assured they would undoubtably have used it.    After all Leonardo De Vinci used his camera obscura.    

If one is inclined to the old ways that is fine.    Their choice.    However, it would be extremely unlikely, but amusing for these same adherents of the past, to ever be observed grinding their own paints, or chasing porky around the yard to get enough bristles to make brushes.    How many make their own watercolour papers, as did our forebears?    No no no, they are to be seen at the art supply stores etc, purchasing supplies manufactured by modern methods, using modern machinery.

Many times the question of scaling up is raised.    This subject often raises the hackles of many when discussed, usually with the comment that one is cheating if any, other than the old methods are used.    Totally untrue!    In the modern day environment anything goes.    Whether by the old square method, proportional dividers, cameras, projectors, or even computers, what does it matter?    Any method   used is fine, after all most of us who are amateurs, desire only to attempt to paint a pretty picture, do art for therapy or a hobby.

Many of the worlds top artists use many of the modern methods, depending on subject complexity, deadlines, or many other reasons.    They do not have problems with the usage of them, it seems to be a hang up of amateurs.    As many have stated, As long as you paint the picture yourself how it is set up is your choice.    This is one of the reasons that makes art to the individual personal.

Again, there are many ways of preparing a layout for a painting.    Thumbnail sketch method, tracing, light boxes, again depending on complexity.    When setting up a rather difficult layout my personal favourite is the light box which also involves drawing.    Any method which involves sketching or drawing is preferable, but again the choice is yours.    As a very successful artist of three generations ago earning his living at art told me, It is the finished painting that counts, and it is immaterial what methods you use to achieve it.    If one wants to paint using only the old ways, then it is suggested that one sticks to simple landscapes which are much easier in all ways.  

Whatever methods you use there is mainly one criteria to go by.    Have fun.    ...