9 Essential Tips to Make the Experience More Comfortable
Plein air painting in the winter offers unique beauty, with soft sunlight and snow-covered landscapes. However, cold-weather painting presents challenges that require thoughtful preparation. Here are some practical tips to help you stay warm and focused while capturing the scenic delights of the season.
1. Dress in Layers for Flexibility
One of the most important ways to prepare for winter plein air painting is layering. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin, followed by an insulating layer like fleece or wool, and finish with a windproof and waterproof outer layer. Layering allows you to adjust as temperatures change throughout the day, keeping you comfortable even when the weather fluctuates.
2. Protect Your Hands While Maintaining Brush Control
Keeping your hands warm without sacrificing dexterity can be tricky. Traditional gloves often make it difficult to hold a brush with precision, but there are solutions to keep your hands cozy and functional.
For those who prefer to handle the brush directly, try using old wool socks as hand covers. Cut a hole in the end of each sock, just big enough to pass a brush through, letting the sock protect your hand while you paint. This setup keeps your fingers warm and still allows for a natural grip on your brush. Tucking a hand warmer into the sock-covered hand can also provide extra warmth.
If gloves are more comfortable, consider using thin, touch-sensitive liner gloves under heavier, windproof mittens. This way, you can easily switch between full warmth and direct contact with your materials as needed.
3. Insulate Your Feet to Avoid Cold Toes
Standing still for long periods in winter can lead to cold feet, even when wearing thick boots. To prevent the chill from snow or frozen ground, place a barrier between your feet and the cold surface. A couple of layers of cardboard or a foldable outdoor blanket are lightweight options that can be placed on the ground and provide excellent insulation. These layers prevent direct contact with the frozen ground and help retain heat, making a big difference over time.
4. Guard Against Wind
Winter winds can make even moderate temperatures feel much colder, and when painting in open areas, wind protection is essential. Wear an outer layer that blocks the wind, and position your easel with your back to the breeze when possible. A portable windbreak or a simple umbrella can help shield you from gusts, preserving warmth and protecting your canvas from sudden movements.
5. Shield Yourself from Sun Glare and UV Exposure
Snow reflects sunlight, increasing the risk of glare and even sunburn. To protect your eyes, wear sunglasses with UV protection and, if possible, bring along a clamp-on umbrella to reduce the amount of reflected light hitting your canvas. Sunscreen is essential even in winter; apply it on any exposed skin to prevent sunburn, which can sneak up in cold weather.
6. Keep Oil Paints from Stiffening in the Cold
Cold temperatures make oil paints thick and harder to spread, which can be frustrating. Keeping your paints in your coat pocket along with a hand warmer can help maintain a workable consistency, allowing them to stay warm and viscous. Some artists also use a small, insulated bag to store their paints and palette, which offers similar benefits.
7. Use Portable Hand Warmers
Hand warmers are a small but effective tool for winter plein air painting. These pocket-sized heat packs can be placed inside gloves, mittens, or even in your wool sock-hand cover to keep fingers warm. Tuck them into coat pockets or alongside your paints to prevent everything from getting too cold.
8. Stay Hydrated and Energized
Cold weather can sometimes suppress thirst, but it’s essential to stay hydrated. Bring a thermos of warm tea, coffee or water to sip on while you work. Small snacks that are high in energy, like nuts, dried fruit or chocolate, can help you stay alert and focused.
9. Bring a Seat or Take Breaks
Painting in the cold can take a toll on your energy levels. Consider bringing a lightweight camping chair to sit on while you work or take occasional breaks to stretch and warm up. If possible, paint in intervals, stepping away to warm up out of the elements before coming back to add more details.
Embrace the Season
Winter plein air painting requires more preparation, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. With a little planning and a few easy tricks to guard against the cold, you’ll be able to enjoy the season’s serene beauty and use that inspiration to create art. Embrace the winter chill as part of your process, and your work will reflect the unique qualities of the winter landscape.
