Mastering Texture & Depth in Rebelle 8 My Layered Workflow

🎨 Mastering Texture & Depth in Rebelle 8: My Layered Workflow In this video, I break down the layered process behind my latest expressive portrait—built using Rebelle 8’s newest tools and brush systems. This tutorial focuses on how to create rich, realistic textures while maintaining full control over composition and lighting.

🖌️ Layer Setup & Workflow

Underpainting Layer: I start with the new Bristle Brushes in watercolor mode to tone the canvas and lay down foundational textures. These brushes simulate real bristle drag, pigment flow, and edge softness—perfect for building mood and movement.

Sketch Layer: Locked above the underpainting, this layer guides the composition without interfering with paint application.

Butter Layer: This is where the figure emerges. I use the new Oil Bristle Brushes, which pair beautifully with RealShader and SoftShadows to create impasto effects and realistic depth. I turn down gloss in the visual settings to reduce artificial shine and enhance the painterly feel.

🧱 Background Painting To keep the figure visually separated, I create a new layer beneath the Butter layer but above the sketch. This lets me paint the background freely while preserving the figure’s integrity. I use a mix of Scatter and Grunge Brushes to build atmosphere and texture—layering earthy tones and abstract shapes that echo the emotional tone of the piece.

🧰 Tool Highlights

Bristle Brushes: Simulate traditional brush drag, pigment buildup, and edge softness—ideal for both watercolor and oil workflows.

RealShader: Adds dynamic lighting and pigment thickness based on brush pressure and angle.

SoftShadows: Creates subtle ambient occlusion and depth, especially around folds and edges.

Updated Selection Tool: This new version offers fluid control—you can switch seamlessly between straight-line selections and freehand drawing, making it easy to isolate areas with both precision and organic flow. The feathering feels smoother than ever, softening edges without losing clarity. Combined with real-time preview and edge refinement, it’s perfect for masking, background work, or isolating fine details.

💬 Let me know in the comments if you want a deeper dive into any specific tool or technique. 🔔 Subscribe for more tutorials on expressive digital painting, symbolism, and texture mastery.

🛒 Links & Resources
🖼️ Prints Available: DavidDeFigueredoArt on Etsy 🧠 In-Depth Rebelle 8 Features: Great Video by Escape Motions 🎵 Music Credits: Aim To Head Official on YouTube

#Rebelle8 #DigitalPainting #TextureTutorial #ArtWorkflow #ImpastoEffect #RealisticArt #SymbolicArt #DavidDeHuguereidoArt #ArtToolsExplained #SelectionToolTips