Tole Painting

Tole painting is a popular craft hobby in America today, and with good reason. This style of painting uses ordinary household objects as potential art. Decorative designs are commonly painted on wood, tin and other metals. Unfinished furniture such as chairs, tables, and chests and toy boxes are favored tole painting objects and often become family heirlooms, when well done. Smaller items, such as coffeepots and jewelry boxes are good candidates for the art of tole painting.

Tole painting was first practiced in the United States in the 1700's, principally in the New England states and in Pennsylvania by German and Scandinavian immigrants. Tole painting evolved from a similar craft practiced throughout Scandinavia and parts of Germany in the same time period, known as rosemaling. Interestingly, immigrants from Germany favored tin and metal as their tole painting medium, while Scandinavians more often chose wood and furniture items.

The tradition of tole painting has been kept alive to this day. Although the techniques are the same as used in the 1700's, the type and materials on which designs are painted have expanded to include just about any surface, including pottery, mirrors, ceramics and glass.

The art of tole painting bears some similarities to calligraphy and Japanese brush strokes, where a very precise shape is executed in a single brush stroke. The variations in designs seen in tole painted objects are attained through the arrangement of the strokes.

There are only five major brush strokes in this craft. Their names well describe their shapes: the comma, teardrop, 'S', 'C' and half-circle strokes. The proper technique requires that the strokes be completed in a single move or stroke of the brush, without lifting the brush from the object.

Although traditional tole painting purists insist on the use of oil paints, in popular practice, many people today use acrylic paints for a variety of reasons. Acrylics dry faster and the layering of colors can produce interesting effects. Mastering oil paints requires more knowledge and experience than acrylics. Acrylic paints are also much easier to clean up when a project is finished.

The brush strokes lend themselves well to floral designs, which is perhaps one reason flowers are one of the most popular designs with tole crafters today.

When you're first starting out, it's a good idea to practice your strokes on hardboard or some other inexpensive practice piece. Beginners often like using purchased patterns from craft stores to get the hang of tole painting techniques.

Sooner or later, you'll want to try your hand at your first original piece. You'll probably feel very excited to complete this first original. In fact, much like knitting and crochet, you won't be able to stop! This is a therapeutic craft which gives pleasure, relaxation and a sense of artistic accomplishment. You'll soon be painting an extensive number of items as gifts, and inviting friends for a painting party. Spread the word! This craft is a lot of fun.