How to Make Abstract Art Like a Pro: Easy Steps for Beginners

In abstract art, your thoughts come out as color and movement rather than words. It’s not about confusion; it’s about emotion and curiosity. You don’t need expensive tools or classes, only the courage to explore color and texture. For anyone drawn to easy abstract art painting ideas for beginners, this piece will help you see how simple it can be to start.

Getting Started: Mindset Matters 

Abstract art isn’t about painting things the way they look. It’s about letting your feelings guide you through color and movement. Before you start, slow down and forget the rules of what makes art ‘good. Here are a few simple tips that can help you start with confidence: 

• Accept mistakes: Some of the most beautiful art happens by accident. If it doesn’t look the way you want, add more layers and keep going until it does.
• Paint your feelings: Don’t focus on what it’s supposed to look like. Ask yourself what you want it to express. Do you want it to feel calm, bold, or full of energy?
• Find inspiration anywhere: Inspiration can come from anywhere — the texture of a wall, the flow of water, or the glow of city lights at night. 

If digital art speaks to you, Procreate and Krita are amazing spaces to create. You get the same flow of creativity, minus the clutter and wasted paint.

Gather Your Supplies 

You really don’t need a full studio setup to make great abstract art. A few simple materials and you are all set!

• Surface: Canvas, thick paper, cardboard, or any sturdy surface works well.
• Paints: Acrylics are great for beginners because they dry quickly and are easy to clean.
• Brushes and tools: Have a few different brush sizes, a palette knife, sponges, or even your fingers. 

Optional: Play around with fabric scraps, magazine pieces, or textured paper. If you want, you can watch tutorials for mixed media abstract art techniques step by step to get some hands-on guidance.

The goal is to explore and see what feels enjoyable. Digital artists can also experiment with brushes that mimic textures like watercolor or oil paint. The idea is to let your emotions flow, not to limit your art.

You May Like: Iconic Artists Who Inspired Modern Graphic Design

Let’s Paint: Simple Abstract Techniques to Try 

Now for the fun part. Abstract art is about flow and feeling. These two beginner-friendly techniques are a great place to start.

1. Technique 1: Gesture and Flow 

• Turn on music that matches how you feel. 
• Pick a couple of colors and let your hand move in time with the sound.
• Use large, sweeping strokes to keep your hand relaxed. 
• Stop overthinking and let shapes appear naturally. 

This approach works great for abstract brushstroke painting ideas for home décor. The outcome usually feels bold, expressive, and ready to brighten up your walls.

2. Technique 2: Shapes and Geometry 

If you prefer clean lines and balance, go for a style influenced by geometric abstract art design inspiration. Grab some tape and block out a few shapes—maybe circles, squares, or triangles. Use solid or blended shades, then shift the shapes around and see what feels visually right.

Play with Color and Texture 

In abstract art, color does most of the talking. The way you combine them can instantly change how your painting feels. Explore unique color palette ideas for abstract art to see what speaks to you. Try this:

• Blend the colors right where you paint and watch unexpected tones form.
• Add lighter tones on top of darker ones to create depth.
• Add texture using sand, paper, or thick paint to give the piece more dimension. 

Knowing When to Stop 

You might often catch yourself thinking, ‘Is it finished yet?’—and that’s perfectly okay. A helpful tip is to step away and look at it after a break. If it feels complete and balanced, it probably is. If it looks unfinished, add small touches and check again. Avoid overworking it because too many changes can dull the energy of your piece. 

Get Ready to Create Your Own Abstract Masterpiece 

Making abstract art is about discovery and self-expression, not perfection. You can start with brushes, experiment with digital tools, or even mix both. Every color, shape, and texture tells part of your creative story. 

So get creative with easy abstract art painting ideas for beginners. Each new attempt reveals more about your personal art journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know when my artwork is finished?

Trust your intuition. If it feels resolved and adding more seems unnecessary, step away and revisit it later with fresh eyes.

2. What if I don’t like what I made?

Don’t worry! Every artist does sometimes. Treat it as a learning experience, paint over it, or move on; not every piece needs to be a keeper.

3. Does my abstract art need a deep meaning or title?

Not at all! It can be purely about color and texture; title it however you like or let the art speak for itself.