Diamond painting: what is it? Here is the 2021 guide for beginners
DIAMOND PAINT: WHAT IS IT?
Diamond painting can be described as a craft hobby. Think of it as an integration between Paint by Numbers and Cross Stitch.
Diamond painting started in 2015. It was developed to be a more therapeutic version of Cross Stitch - a faster and easier version.
Diamond painting allows you to apply small resin "diamonds" to a DMC coated adhesive canvas to create more luminous mosaic paintings.
GETTING STARTED WITH DIAMOND PAINTING
SAILING INSTRUCTIONS
- Remove all items from the packaging.
- The canvas should be placed on a flat, clean surface.
- To begin, select a colored diamond.
- Pour the diamonds into the tray (included) to simplify picking.
- The tip of the applicator should be dipped in the wax. This will allow you to pick up the diamonds effortlessly. (Note - wax is included with some kits, pliers are included with others. )
- The tip of the applicator should be placed on the rounded side of the diamond.
- The plastic film of the applicator must be carefully peeled off. The diamond must then be pressed on the corresponding symbol.
- This process must be repeated until you are done!
WHAT SEPARATES A SQUARE DIAMOND FROM A ROUND?
When it comes to diamond painting, you will sometimes come across terms such as "round drill" and "square drill". The word "drill" is just a substitute word to describe a diamond.
Speaking of square diamonds and round diamonds, we are comparing the shapes of the diamond to each other.
If you're trying to decide between a round and a square shape, you have to keep in mind that there is no correct answer. Your goal should be to choose a shape that you believe is beautiful.
SQUARE DIAMONDS
You will be able to create a more complete painting
Square diamonds appear “cleaner” compared to round diamonds. They line up with each other more easily, creating a full mosaic appearance when viewed from a distance.
Square diamonds 'snap' satisfactorily
Little things like this can go a long way! When you begin the filling process, the “snap” you hear when these pieces come together will be quite satisfying.
ROUND DIAMONDS
Collecting diamonds and applying them will be faster and easier!
Round diamonds adhere much better to diamond pens, making the transition almost seamless.
Finished painting may appear less "complete"
Keeping the shapes of the diamonds in mind, the gaps between the diamonds can be more visible when looking at the painting closely.
DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES FOR DIAMOND PAINTING
You might want to change things after a while. Various diamond painting techniques have been developed by our community. Strategies for using them couldn't be easier!
THE CHECKERBOARD APPROACH
Alternating white and black squares can be applied to areas containing large amounts of a certain color. Many gaps will be filled in this way. When it all comes together, the finished piece will be mesmerizing.
START FROM THE BOTTOM
The best things should be saved for last. This approach is to start with the color of which you have the fewest diamonds. Round things off with the color you have in abundance. Things will get easier as you progress. Several similar colors can be used simultaneously if you have a multi-headed diamond pen.
INDIVIDUAL APPROACH
Although this approach does not deserve much explanation, it is worth mentioning. Simply move from one side of the canvas to the other using an individual color per motion. Remember, however, that some easily exposed areas may feel less sticky over time. However, all empty spaces will be filled with this approach. For some, the process may be more satisfying for some people than moving from row to row.
SUGGESTION: If some areas lose adhesion due to exposure to air, the stain can be dabbed with a baby wipe or damp towel.
FIRM TERRAIN APPROACH
Large blocks containing similar colors should be split into smaller 'plots' which can be 'harvested' on an individual basis. Each rectangle should be large enough that 3-5 diamonds can be placed in it using the wide end of the diamond pen.
Each kit will include everything you need to get started!
- Wax stamp (with which you can collect diamonds).
- A diamond pen.
- Colored diamonds (separated by labeled bags).
- Canvas (pre-printed) with design chart (includes pre-applied adhesive).
IF THE CANVAS IS DISPLAYED WITH FOLDS, WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Many kits are shipped overseas. Our canvases are securely packaged. Occasionally, however, creases may appear in the canvas. What steps can you take to remove them?
- Stick your canvas under a mattress - leave the canvas there overnight.
- Place heavy books directly on your canvas - applying weights to the canvas using heavy books and leaving them there for a few days will flatten out the creases.
- Craft knives can be used to cut the creases - if some creases are too stubborn to get out, use X-Acto knives or a tool like them to release the air trapped between your canvas and the adhesive layer that is attached to it.
FRAMING A DIAMOND PAINTING
Oraloa can provide you with a natural wood stretcher bar that you can add to your finished canvas.
Note - the beads should be fixed with Mod Podge or similar putty, following the steps shown in this video. Contact us for more complete instructions.
HELPFUL TIPS AND TIPS
- The canvas will come wrapped in parchment paper or plastic wrap when it arrives (so that the stickiness is preserved). The plastic film should not be removed all at once. Rather, the plastic should be peeled off slowly as you work your way up.
- Egg cartons can be used for organizing diamonds. The process is simple and cheap.
- Glue or stick the diamonds next to the symbol shown on your canvas. Diamonds can be referenced easily whenever you need a quick glance.
- Baby wipes can be used to make certain areas sticky again. If a certain area of the canvas loses its stickiness, use a baby wipe to dab that area. This technique can also be used to remove pet hair or papers from your canvas.
The Oraloa family welcomes you!
If you have any questions, send us a message by e-mail at info@oraloa. com or by contacting us on Facebook.
Do you have any diamond painting suggestions to share? We'd love to hear about it below.
Emy Collins for Oraloa ©