I use the Princeton Select Series 3750 filbert grainer to create my fur. “Grainer” is just another word for rake. And the word filbert refers to the rounded shape. The filbert shape is much easier to handle and manipulate than the straight across rake.
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onsistency of paint is the key to successful painting with the rake. If you struggle with a “rake” brush or “grainer”, it is most likely the consistency of your paint. If you feel the need to manhandle your brush to open the bristles, your consistency is incorrect. Try adding Easy Float and water (1:1) to the opaque colours (the lighter colours). And then just take the time to load the brush properly. The paint should flow effortlessly off your brush. You should barely have to touch the surface. And once loaded correctly, your brush should paint for a long time.
If you have transparent strokes you can put more on your animal. More strokes means more complex fur. And that is what gives the realism and depth.
Here is a photo of my beginning steps.
I have about three layers on here. You can see that it’s just the beginning. The structure is there but not everything is in the right place yet.
I love to rake with a neutral colour and then wash the transparent colours overtop.
This photo shows the painting further along. More detail has been added. I’ve also used the tried and true grid system to make sure features stay where they are supposed to.
Eyes and Nose are next.