In oil paintings , the strokes have to be steadily applied with careful pressure application. You can end up smudging the paints by applying too much color through application of extra pressure put on the brush. The pressure must also not be very little because if that happens, the life of the painting can be shortened because sufficient oil may not be absorbed in the canvas. Oil paintings such as Van Gogh paintings thus require more skills on the artist’s part so that it can be done properly. The exact pressure that can be applied can be understood through continuous practice only.

After the completion of the painting it is left to dry. Then the artist usually coats the entire painting with clear lacquer and this process is called “varnishing”. Even if the painting had resin mixed in its use this process is performed to increase the life of the painting. This process also helps in making the painting waterproof. This finishing coat has to be applied in a uniform manner otherwise the painting will be spoilt over time. The varnish is left to dry after the process is successfully completed. This gives a smooth and glossy finish to the painting because the color sets perfectly.