Learn Oil Painting WITHOUT Drawing — Simple Tracing Trick Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-02-01 | Welcome back to the studio. After a heavy snowstorm here on the East Coast last weekend, I was inspired by a hike through Huber Woods, which became the starting point for this painting.Painting from nature is never static. Even when you return to the same subject from the same viewpoint, it changes with the weather, the time of day, and the season. That constant variation is what keeps the process interesting.In this painting, the tree shadows play as strong a role as the trees themselves. Observing and questioning those shadows—their color, temperature, and value—is a big part of learning how to see as a painter. In this episode, I focus on capturing that specific moment in winter light.I’ll be painting on a small panel, measuring 5 ¾ by 7 inches. Working at this scale encourages a more relaxed, direct approach. If a painting starts to fall apart, set it aside and begin another. You can always return to it once the paint has dried.Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you next week.The colors I Paint withRaw Umber amzn.to/4rjGxdGBurnt Umber. amzn.to/3Mf5lEQFrench Ultramarine Blue amzn.to/4ro3CfeCobalt Blue amzn.to/3ZuDHH7 Permanent Green amzn.to/4a5sWQ5Cadmium Red amzn.to/4qZ28bOTitanium White amzn.to/4bvKjMACadmium Yellow amzn.to/4q3VG1DIvory Black amzn.to/4bpRjuj
Float Frame - Make a Frame and Panel System for Oil Painting Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-03-15 | Float Frame - Make a Frame and Panel System for PaintingVisit my site for my woodworking plans jonpeters.com
Intro to Oil Painting - Writers Block - 8 Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-03-08 | Intro to Oil Painting - Writers Block
Introduction to Oil Painting - Abstract Landscape Painting - 7 Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-03-01 | Introduction to Oil Painting - Abstract Landscape Field Painting - 7
How to Make an Encaustic Transfer and Paint on Encaustic Wax Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-02-22 | Good Sunday Morning!Learn how to create an encaustic image transfer in this step-by-step encaustic art tutorial! In this video, I demonstrate how to transfer an image onto wax using a laser printer and charcoal tracing.You’ll see how I incorporate a favorite life drawing and a recurring floral motif into my encaustic painting, along with tips for successful burnishing and fusing. If you’re interested in encaustic painting, mixed media art, wax techniques, or image transfers, this tutorial will help you get started.Check out the website post here jonpeters.com/blogs/art-classes/how-to-make-an-encaustic-image-transfer-step-by-stepIn this video:Encaustic transfer techniquesLaser vs. inkjet image transferCharcoal tracing methodFusing and finishing tipsSubscribe for weekly encaustic art tutorials, studio processes, and mixed media inspiration!#encaustic #encausticart #imagetransfer #mixedmedia #waxart #arttutorial #encausticpainting
How to Make Encaustic Medium and Paint Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-02-17 | How to Make Encaustic Medium and Paint
How to Make Encaustic Paint and Medium Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-02-15 | Discover the beauty of encaustic painting and learn how to make your own encaustic medium from scratch. I first became fascinated with encaustic after seeing the iconic flag and target paintings by Jasper Johns. The rich surface, layered texture, and luminous depth of his work inspired me to explore this ancient wax-based painting technique.In this video, I walk you through my complete encaustic process—from mixing the medium to creating custom colors and storing reusable paint.What You’ll Learn:What encaustic medium is made of (beeswax + damar resin)The standard 8:1 ratio of beeswax to damar crystalsHow damar crystals (tree sap resin from India and Southeast Asia) strengthen and harden the waxHow to properly heat and combine encaustic mediumHow to prepare oil paint by removing excess oil for better wax adhesionWhy I use MDF or Masonite to absorb oil from the pigmentHow to mix pigment into encaustic mediumHow to pour and store encaustic paint in reusable pucksEncaustic Medium Recipe:8 parts beeswax1 part damar crystalsHeat the wax, add damar resin, and stir until fully dissolved. This becomes your base encaustic medium.To create color, I add oil paint—but first, I spread the paint onto MDF or Masonite to pull out excess oil. This leaves a higher concentration of pigment, which mixes beautifully with the wax and creates stronger, more stable encaustic paint.Once mixed, I pour the molten paint into silicone or cupcake molds. After cooling and hardening, the solid pucks can be reheated and reused anytime.The Web Post jonpeters.com/blogs/art-classes/exploring-encaustic-inspired-by-jasper-johnsWoodworking Channel youtu.be/laKvr8vXkqk?si=yybLzjAWygxyuqQfBees Wax amzn.to/4rKrVnYDamer Crystals amzn.to/4ctcEmWIf you’re interested in:Encaustic painting techniquesBeeswax art processesHow to make encaustic mediumMixed media painting methodsWax-based fine artThis video will give you a clear, practical introduction.Subscribe for more studio processes, contemporary art techniques, and material explorations.#encaustic #encausticpainting #beeswaxart #arttutorial #contemporaryart #mixedmediaThe colors I Paint withRaw Umber amzn.to/4rjGxdGBurnt Umber. amzn.to/3Mf5lEQFrench Ultramarine Blue amzn.to/4ro3CfeCobalt Blue amzn.to/3ZuDHH7 Permanent Green amzn.to/4a5sWQ5Cadmium Red amzn.to/4qZ28bOTitanium White amzn.to/4bvKjMACadmium Yellow amzn.to/4q3VG1DIvory Black amzn.to/4bpRjuj
Introduction to Oil Painting - Abstract Color Field Painting - 4 Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-02-08 | Good Sunday morning!Painting Nothing.This is a good example of painting—even when you’re not sure what to paint.Working small makes the process almost completely stress-free. In the first painting, I’m simply putting down notes of color and seeing what happens. There’s no pressure and no plan. This kind of painting can stand on its own exactly as it is, or you can let it dry and come back later to add geometric shapes in different colors, inspired by Hans Hofmann. It’s another way to experience how color alone can create light, space, and form.The second painting is inspired by Hofmann student Paul Resika—again, just playing with color and letting the painting unfold naturally.Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you next week.The colors I Paint withRaw Umber amzn.to/4rjGxdGBurnt Umber. amzn.to/3Mf5lEQFrench Ultramarine Blue amzn.to/4ro3CfeCobalt Blue amzn.to/3ZuDHH7 Permanent Green amzn.to/4a5sWQ5Cadmium Red amzn.to/4qZ28bOTitanium White amzn.to/4bvKjMACadmium Yellow amzn.to/4q3VG1DIvory Black amzn.to/4bpRjuj
How to transfer a drawing onto canvas - Intro to Oil Painting Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-02-03 | In the last episode, I showed a simple way to transfer a photograph onto canvas. Hold the photo up to a window in reverse, trace the subject with a charcoal pencil, then press it onto the canvas to transfer the lines.Watch the full video in the related videos.
Vermont Poppies | Introduction to Oil Painting - 2 Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-01-26 | Vermont Poppies | Introduction to Oil PaintingThis short introduces a relaxed approach to oil painting using Vermont poppies as the subject. I work on a small scale and treat each painting as a study, focusing on color mixing and getting comfortable with the materials.Click the related video to watch the full introduction to oil painting lesson. If a painting works, great. If it doesn’t, I let it dry and paint over it. I hope this video helps you get started in your studio.
Oil Painting for Beginners | Vermont Poppies Lesson - 2 Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-01-25 | Welcome back to the studio.In this video, we’ll be painting poppies. Back in 2006, my wife and I bought an old house in Vermont that I renovated. The previous owner was an avid gardener and had planted poppies around the property. They bloomed every summer, and over the years I photographed and painted them many times. Those poppies are the inspiration for today’s painting lesson.This is a casual, low-pressure painting session. If the painting doesn’t work out, that’s okay—you can always come back to it once it dries. Try not to overwork the painting if it starts to go off track. Set it aside and start another one instead. After a few attempts, you’ll have several paintings you can return to and adjust later.This approach takes the stress out of painting and helps you become more comfortable with mixing color and working intuitively. Don’t worry too much about the outcome—focus on the process and enjoy the time spent painting. The colors I Paint withRaw Umber amzn.to/4rjGxdGBurnt Umber. amzn.to/3Mf5lEQFrench Ultramarine Blue amzn.to/4ro3CfeCobalt Blue amzn.to/3ZuDHH7 Permanent Green amzn.to/4a5sWQ5Cadmium Red amzn.to/4qZ28bOTitanium White amzn.to/4bvKjMACadmium Yellow amzn.to/4q3VG1DIvory Black amzn.to/4bpRjuj
Oil Painting for Beginners | Winter Landscape Lesson - 1 Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2026-01-18 | Welcome to the studio. In this episode, I demonstrate an oil painting of a winter landscape, specifically a seascape of the Navesink River on a snowy morning. This painting focuses on basic oil painting techniques and a simple approach to landscape painting.Winter Seascape Oil Painting StudyThe subject is a calm winter scene along the Navesink River. Snow, water, and overcast light make this a good study for learning how to handle values and color temperature in winter landscape oil painting.Go to the post here to see the images jonpeters.com/blogs/art-classes/winter-seascape-oil-painting-study-on-the-navesink-riverSmall Oil Painting on Plywood PanelThis painting is done on a plywood panel measuring 5¾ inches by 7 inches. Working on a small panel keeps the process simple and flexible. If the painting does not work out, it can be left to dry, lightly sanded, and painted over.Reusing panels is a practical way to practice oil painting. Older underpaintings often add useful texture and surface variation when painting over them.Why Small Oil Paintings Are Good for PracticeIf you are thinking about trying oil painting, small studies like this are a good place to start. They require less time, less space, and fewer materials than larger paintings. This makes them ideal for beginners and for regular practice.Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you next time.
Shaker Bench with Back Rest - Solid Cherry Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2025-05-30 | Plans for this bench jonpeters.com/products/shaker-bench-with-backrestThis project was inspired by a more than 200-year-old Shaker bench in the permanent collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The original piece, crafted from pine, is nearly 8 feet long and features a distinctive three-leg central support design.For my version, I used cherry wood and scaled the bench down to just under 4 feet in length, making it a bit wider to suit modern proportions and comfort. It's a simple, functional piece that honors the timeless elegance of Shaker design while adapting it to today's needs.I hope you enjoyed watching this build and that it inspires you to spend some time in your own shop. Thanks for watching, JonVisit my website for more project plans jonpeters.comYou can help support me by buying your tools and supplies from my Tool Store jonpeters.com/pages/toolsSee the full Project video here youtu.be/05DIdY2uSn0?si=eZcXWGjw59DyUSl3
Modern End Tables - Monkey Pod Veneer Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2025-05-30 | Modern end tables plans jonpeters.com/products/modern-bedside-tableI built this pair of modern end tables using furniture-grade birch plywood and monkey pod veneer. If you can build a box, you can build this project—because that's essentially what these tables are: clean, simple boxes sitting on small pedestals.The interiors are painted in a Dove White, which not only brightens the inside but also makes the Monkey Pod wood grain really pop. Chrome adjustable shelf pin inserts add a subtle touch of modern flair and functionality.These tables are a nice mix of simplicity and style. I hope you enjoyed the build.Thanks for watching, JonVisit my website at jonpeters.comYou can help support me by buying your tools and supplies from my Tool Store jonpeters.com/pages/toolsSee the full project video here youtu.be/jaVfMGqFZp4?si=-syR0pY5znWqynMw
Shaker Inspired Bench with Turned Legs - Solid Cherry Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2025-05-30 | Bench with turned legs plans jonpeters.com/products/cherry-bench-design-plansI built this Shaker-inspired bench using solid cherry wood, with turned legs for a classic and timeless look. This project is a great opportunity to practice your lathe skills, but if you don’t have access to a lathe, you can easily adapt the design with tapered legs instead.I used mortise and tenon joinery for strength and durability, staying true to traditional woodworking techniques. However, if you're looking for a simpler approach, this bench can also be built using pocket hole joinery.Whether you're a beginner or a more experienced woodworker, this project offers plenty of flexibility. I hope you enjoy the build and feel inspired to make one of your own.Thanks for watching, JonVisit my website at jonpeters.comYou can help support me by buying your tools and supplies from my Tool Store jonpeters.com/pages/toolsSee the full project video here youtu.be/JZG9jH2LEU4?si=O2PDywH9Tu2KRBuA
Cherry Entrance Table with Continuous Wood Grain Drawer Fronts Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2025-05-30 | Entrance table plans jonpeters.com/products/cherry-table-design-plansI built this cherry entrance table featuring continuous wood grain across the drawer fronts—a subtle detail that adds a touch of craftsmanship. The table is made from solid cherry, with clean, tapered legs and a graceful bow in the front edge of the tabletop.To make this project more accessible for beginning woodworkers, I used pocket hole joinery throughout the build. However, if you prefer traditional methods, the same design can easily be adapted to use mortise and tenon joinery.This build is a great way to develop your woodworking skills while creating a functional and eye-catching piece for your home.Thanks for watching—I hope you enjoyed the project, JonVisit my website at jonpeters.comYou can help support me by buying your tools and supplies from my Tool Store jonpeters.com/pages/toolsYou can see the full project video here youtu.be/L0BGvIe67Ok?si=FFnkajQyK5FYKQ6d
Mid-Century Modern Inspired Walnut Sideboard | Fine Woodworking Project Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2025-05-30 | Walnut Sideboard Plans jonpeters.com/products/modern-sideboard-design-plansThis mid-century modern inspired Walnut Sideboard blends timeless design with fine craftsmanship. The cabinet features a combination of highly figured Claro walnut veneer on the top and sides, and quarter-cut walnut veneer on the drawer and door fronts, offering a beautiful contrast in grain and tone.The base is made from solid walnut, with a unique design: two central legs and cantilevered arms that cradle the cabinet, creating a light, floating effect that’s both elegant and functional.This build is packed with cabinetmaking and fine woodworking techniques—from straightforward cabinet construction to veneering and precision wood shaping. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, I hope this project inspires you to spend more time in the shop creating something special for your home.Thanks for watching, JonVisit my website at jonpeters.comYou can help support me by buying your tools and supplies from my Tool Store jonpeters.com/pages/toolsYou can see the full project video here youtu.be/hPuR4SyIk_E?si=00ui3uSguFlm54Ld
Two Step Shaker Step Stool - Solid Cherry Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2025-05-30 | Step stool plans jonpeters.com/products/two-step-shaker-step-stoolThis project came together after a trip to the Shaker Museum in Hancock, Massachusetts.My wife, Laurel, and I were visiting our friend, the painter Francis Cunningham, at his studio in the Berkshires. Knowing I’m a woodworker, Francis suggested we check out the nearby museum. It was a short drive, and well worth it.If you’re into handmade furniture, clean lines, and solid design, I highly recommend a visit. The place is packed with inspiration—from the workshops and living quarters to the round barn, everything reflects the Shaker commitment to quality and function.While walking through one of the restored rooms, I spotted a simple two-step stool with a handle. No frills—just solid joinery and a design that gets the job done. I knew right away I wanted to build one.The original looked like pine, but I used cherry for its durability and depth of color. It’s a practical piece that’ll see daily use—whether it’s in the shop, kitchen, or wherever you need a boost.A simple, useful build. And one you’ll have around for years.Thanks for watching, JonVisit my website at jonpeters.comYou can help support me by buying your tools and supplies from my Tool Store jonpeters.com/pages/toolsYou can see the full video here youtu.be/bjjWspphZUI?si=FXtHYBG34F3SsD7p
Cherry End Table - Game Table, with Continuous Wood Grain Drawer Front Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2025-05-30 | Cherry End Table - Game Table plans jonpeters.com/products/cherry-game-table-design-plansI built this cherry end table, that we use as a game table to match the entrance table I made a year earlier.The table features tapered legs, a slight bow on the front and back edges, a small bead molding detail on the apron, and a drawer with continuous wood grain for a clean, handcrafted look.I used pocket hole joinery to make this project more accessible for a wide range of woodworkers, but it can also be built using traditional mortise and tenon joinery.Whether you use it as a game table, end table, or nightstand, this is a great project for anyone looking to spend some time in the shop and add a quality, handmade piece of furniture to their home.Thanks for watching, JonVisit my website at jonpeters.comYou can help support me by buying your tools and supplies from my Tool Store jonpeters.com/pages/toolsSee the full project video here youtu.be/lzV--Lfw0C8?si=iwn1WApw7EAzbfM2
Modern Chest of Drawers – White Oak & Walnut Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2025-05-30 | Modern chest of drawers plans jonpeters.com/products/chest-of-drawers-design-plansIn this video, I build of a modern chest of drawers made with furniture-grade birch plywood and veneered with rift and figured white oak. Special attention was given to achieve a seamless waterfall effect where the top and sides meet, as well as continuous grain matching on the drawer fronts.The organic drawer pulls may look unconventional, but they’re surprisingly functional and add a unique touch to the minimalist design. The white oak cabinet is elevated by a cantilevered solid walnut base, giving the piece a lighter, more elegant presence.Throughout the build, I share plenty of tips and techniques—from basic joinery and veneering to installing mechanical drawer slides.Thanks for watching, JonVisit my website at jonpeters.comYou can help support me by buying your tools and supplies from my Tool Store jonpeters.com/pages/toolsSee the full project video here youtu.be/nIq7IIWKIE0?si=rx3YXT8ynxwxtFkV
Japanese-Inspired Long Low Bench - Padauk & Bubinga Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2025-05-30 | Long low bench plans jonpeters.com/products/long-low-benchIn this video, I build a long, low bench inspired by the simplicity and elegance of Japanese design. The bench features a solid Padauk base paired with a Bubinga seat. With only four main components, the design is minimal, but the craftsmanship is anything but — relying on precise joinery and careful shaping.The base is constructed using reinforced lap joints, ensuring both strength and longevity. The legs are power carved and shaped with a hand plane to give the bench a light, organic form while maintaining a sturdy foundation.The Bubinga top is attached using handmade wooden clips (or "buttons") that allow for seasonal wood movement — a subtle but important detail in solid wood construction.This was a rewarding build, and the final piece is versatile enough for an entryway, living space, or as part of a dining set. I hope this project inspires you to get into the shop and create something meaningful for your home.Thanks for watching, JonVisit my website at jonpeters.comYou can help support me by buying your tools and supplies from my Tool Store jonpeters.com/pages/toolsSee the Full Project video here youtu.be/5DWIrVbaCfY?si=Tl9ekAX1gERQTvmq
Glass Top End Table – Functional Wood Sculpture - White Oak & Zebrawood Jon Peters In the Art Studio 2025-05-30 | I made this glass top end table with Zebrawood and White Oak. The zebrawood legs are carved on two sides and joined to the white oak base using lap joints.I consider this a piece of functional sculpture — a little atrsy but still practical. This project was a great opportunity to practice some power carving and build a useful piece of furniture at the same time.If you're thinking of trying power carving yourself, my tip is to do it outside — it makes a lot of sawdust.Thanks for watching, JonVisit my website at jonpeters.comYou can help support me by buying your tools and supplies from my Tool Store jonpeters.com/pages/toolsSee the full Project video here youtu.be/AB_FS3Fj33Q?si=Kncu9L7Z0A-2tCoL
