A painting knife is a tool used to take up and apply thick paint on canvas. Usually, the handle is made of wood or metal and the flexible blade has a pointed tip that is lowered like a trowel. The blade of the paint spatula can have varying lengths and may be shaped like a diamond, triangle, or rectangle. Although the painting knife is called a knife, its edges are blunt, so it should not be used for slicing or cutting.
An oil painting knife allows you to add a large swipe of paint at once. And if the paint is too much, you can remove it quickly with the edge of the knife. Palette knives also enable you to get a depth of color that is not easy to achieve with a paintbrush. Knives allow you to create a more vibrant painting with deep colors. You can also complete your painting in less time.
The terms palette knife for oil painting and oil painting knife are used interchangeably by artists and painting tool manufacturers. While both abstract palette knives for painting and painting knives are used for applying oil paint on canvas, they have some distinct features. Palette knives for abstract art have flat blades while painting knives have cranked blades. Also, palette knives have broad edges while painting knives are narrow with pointed tips.
When shopping for an acrylic painting knife, select one that has a flexible blade and a good spring action. Pick a palette knife for flower painting with a smooth, comfortable handle, and strong grip. Ensure that the blade and handle are firmly fixed to each other to prevent accidents or wastage. Blades of palette knives for art may be made of steel or plastic. Steel has sharper edges and is easier to clean if the paint dries up on it. It is more durable than thin plastic, which tends to break quickly. However, you need to check the grade of the steel to ensure that it offers good corrosion resistance.