Leopard print is one of the most versatile and eye-catching patterns you can add to a project! And it’s always been a favorite of ours here at Southern Adoornments Decor.
Not only is it super cute, but it’s also easy to paint, even for beginners. That’s because there isn’t one right way to do them. They can easily turn into a fun, free-hand design! And no matter what kind of style you like, this pattern works with just about anything!
In today’s post, I’m walking you through a few different ways to paint leopard print that are easy to master and fun to use. These styles were featured in one of our Painter’s Clubhouse technique spotlights, and I’m breaking them down for you step-by-step below. Grab your brushes and let’s dive in!
Leopard Print Painting Techniques
- Traditional leopard print
- Glam leopard print
- Modern leopard print
- Monochrome leopard print
- Funky leopard print
- Classic monochromatic (snow leopard) print
Traditional Leopard Print
To paint this classic design, you’ll want to have some tan or brown paint on hand to serve as your base. Shades like fawn, burlap, or sable brown work great. Use a Filbert tip brush to dab on wobbly, imperfect blobs. Then, grab a round brush and outline parts of the blobs with black squiggles, C-shapes, or parentheses. Let your brush “wiggle” as you paint those outlines.
To keep things looking natural and authentic, don’t go all the way around. The bit of messiness creates a more realistic look!
Glam Leopard Print
I love a glam leopard print for projects like holiday decor, and it can be a great addition anytime you want your door hanger to shine!
This style adds shimmer and sparkle for a more dressed-up version of the classic look. Start with a base of metallic gold paint, then layer on your leopard spots using black or dark brown for contrast. To take it up a notch, add gold glitter paint over the gold blobs for extra dazzle.
Modern Leopard Print
Want something different than the traditional leopard print pattern? Modern leopard print skips the “blob” and goes straight to bold!
Using a round brush and a bright color, paint squiggly leopard outlines directly onto your surface. You can skip the inner blob with this technique. The final result should look a bit abstract — perfect for filling in backgrounds or giving your door hangers a modern edge!
Monochrome Color Leopard Print
Looking for a way to add a more subtle difference? That’s what monochrome leopard print is for!
Choose a base color and tint part of it with white to create a lighter version. Use the lighter shade for your blobs and the original for your outlines. This technique gives your project subtle depth without overwhelming the eye.
Funky Leopard Print
Let’s take things to the next level…time for a funky leopard print! If you love bold and playful, this one’s for you. Try vibrant colors like pink and orange to create colorful blobs and outlines.
Classic Monochromatic (Snow Leopard Style)
Using gray tones and black, this style is a sophisticated and classy alternative. Start with a gray base and layer in black outlines using the same squiggle method. It’s subtle, a bit chic, and perfect for winter decor. It also pairs well with metallic accents!
Which One Is Your Favorite?
Whether you’re team glam, love the modern/abstract look, or prefer the classic look of leopard print, I hope you try out these styles and work them into your door hanger designs! Remember — there’s no “perfect” way to do this. It’s all about having fun, experimenting, and trusting the process!
Want to practice these styles with more guidance (and get access to even more technique tips?), come join us inside the Painter’s Clubhouse! You’ll get step-by-step tutorials for techniques like these, plus monthly projects to help you practice them too.
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