Step 2. When painting in a pointillist style, you naturally compromise the drawing, edges and brushwork of your painting to some extent. When creating your pointillism art, it is important that you show depth. Step 2: Painting With Pointillism. You can do this by changing how many dots you place in one area. Video of the Day Step 1. When you commit to painting with just small dots of color, there is not much room for delicate drawing, strong edges or skillful brushwork. Use pencil or charcoal sharpened to a fine point and a very light touch. Any painting medium can be utilised in pointillism including oil, acrylic, watercolour and gouache. Sketch the subject of your painting on your prepared canvas, panel or board. Step 3. Do not shade or … The compromise of pointillism. Sketch the subject of your painting on your prepared canvas, panel or board. Load a round point bristle brush with medium and mix it into one of your paint colors. For example, if you were creating a shadow, the dots that compile the shadow should all be placed close together and there should be lots of them. Step 3: Show What You Know. Painting with Pointillism Step 1: Library Research.