How to Paint Fireworks (Step-by-Step Tutorial!)

Hi there, it’s Karen from Over the Artsy Moon, and if you’ve ever wanted to capture the joy of fireworks on canvas—this tutorial is for you! Whether you’re painting for the Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve, Canada Day, or just for fun, this beginner-friendly project is an exciting and playful way to light up your art.

This firework painting was originally part of a design created for the Artsy Moon Paint Club, where members get access to fun, step-by-step tutorials like this one (and over 130 others!). It’s a vibrant and slightly abstract celebration piece—perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you want to add a pop of joy to your wall. If you’re eager to learn more about my membership, be sure to visit my website. 

Supplies You’ll Need

• Mixed Media Pad (I used an 8x8 sheet)
• Painters Tape and vinyl or cardboard backing
• Acrylic Paints: White, Poetic Plum, Tuscan Red, and Ultra Deep Blue (DecoArt)
• Brushes
• 3/4" flat brush
• 1" stencil brush
• Liner brush

Step 1: Create the Colorful Background

Using your flat brush, blend the purple, red, and blue in various corners of your paper using “X” strokes. Be a little random and loose here—the background is meant to be fun and abstract! Add a smidge of white while the paint is still wet to give it a little softness and opacity. Don’t worry about perfection—this is playtime with paint!

Step 2: Add Firework Centers with a Stencil Brush

Once dry, use your stencil brush to “pounce” small clusters of color that will become your firework centers. Try one in blue and white, another in purple, and one in red. Keep them a little spread out and off-center for variety and balance.

Step 3: Paint the Firework Bursts

Dip your liner brush into white paint (or a colored mix) and pull and twist to form a point. Starting from the center of each burst, paint curved lines outward in all directions. You may need to add a bit of water to your paint to keep it flowing smoothly. Vary the length and direction of your strokes to keep it natural-looking—fireworks are rarely uniform!

Pro tip: Want to add an extra pop? Add some dotted lines or small trailing sparks by gently dotting the tip of your brush or pulling smaller “comma” shapes from the bursts.

Step 4: Add Sparkle with Paint Splatter

For that magical finishing touch, loosen up some white paint with water, dip your brush in, and gently tap it over the canvas to add splatter near the center of each firework. It’s a little messy—but so worth it!

Step 5: Play and Personalize

You can stop here or keep adding highlights, colored accents, and layered strokes. Try adding a bit of red or blue into the bursts, or let some of the lines drip down for that sparkler effect. The key is: Don’t overthink it. Let the fireworks dance! Are you ready to watch a replay of this fun tutorial? Check it out here on my YouTube. 

Want More Projects Like This?

There are over 130 tutorials available inside the Artsy Moon Paint Club! As a member, you’ll get instant access to a full library of painting tutorials—including holiday scenes, seasonal favorites, and whimsical designs. Each month I add at least two new lessons, and you can paint at your own pace, anytime you like. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned dabbler, you’ll feel encouraged, supported, and inspired to create art you’re proud of. Click here to learn more and join the Paint Club!