Dalmalning, Swedish folk painting, is a tradition dating back to the 1700s and uses traditional Swedish Dala motifs: draped floral garlands and borders, a central vase of flowers accented with animals or people. In this course, students will be introduced to characteristic design elements, palette and their variations while working on a 12” square pre-primed canvas. Some of the appeal of Dala painting comes from the personal elements introduced into a painting; thus, students will be encouraged to adapt the design to their tastes through flower, border and palette choices. Historically, artists are often identified by their use of colors and stroke work, each artist painting just a bit differently. In this spirit, the instructor encourages her students to put their own vision and preferences into their work so that each student's work is unique and will work with students at all levels to help them achieve this. Students are encouraged to bring a photos of animals, pets or occupations they may wish to include.

You will need the following tools for this class:

The instructor will provide the following supplies: canvas, oils and mediums for all students. The cost of canvas, oils and mediums is included in the materials fee of $35.00 per student. The instructor will bring enough brushes for everyone but they are extra with prices ranging from $ 6.10 per brush to $9.50 per brush depending on size.

Green Frog masking tape
Small T- square or triangle
Ruler
Tracing  paper
***Transfer paper - well used, ie: not new
Kneaded rubber eraser
2" foam brush
Superfine sandpaper or sanding sponge
Small jar cap or lid for daily supply of linseed oil ex:  hair spray or mousse cap, syrup cap
Larger  empty jar (6-8oz.) for Paint thinner
Empty jar filled with dried beans or rice to keep paint filled brushes off table surface
Press n Seal  (to keep paints from drying out each night)
Waxed paper palette
Palette knife
Notebook and pencil
Camera

Feel free to bring your favorite tools and whatever materials you might feel appropriate for this course.

 IMPORTANT NOTES:
1. A small portable tilted stand to prop your projects on while painting  is a great investment for your neck,  spine, shoulders  and painting hand!  Your project should be at an angle when you paint, not flat on the table.  IKEA has a wonderful  desk accessory:  a lightweight  laptop support  ($4.99)  as do most  office supply stores.  Once you are used to using one, your strokes will flow easier.  If you do not wish to buy one, try propping  up your project on your roll of Viva (it should be a large new roll)

2. Because the canvas is taut and open in the back, it will "bounce"  as you paint.  I solve this by cutting a piece of foam,  heavy cardboard or foam board to fit  tightly inside the back between the stretcher bars. It can be a full size fit or something smaller that you move up or down behind the canvas as you paint so you have a firm surface. You will need a 9" x 9" piece to fit into the back of your canvas