How do I do my art?

My art is a huge process.  It takes me a while to brainstorm and find an idea I like.  I really like to paint and draw from photos, to often that means I have to search until I find one that I like.  Yeah, there are a lot of nice photos of Buicks and beaches, but which suit my needs?  I use a lot of reference material.  When I find the photo I want to paint from, I then go to sketching.  Which composition do I like best?  After I fool around with that, I do some practice paintings.  Why? Because it helps me get my colors right, technique right, and form right.  Then I move onto the canvas.  I will sketch the subjects out using a thinned out paint, usually raw umber, and put everything where I want it.   I like working from these skeletons.  Then I block everything in, using major colors, using the thickest brush first.  Then I blend the colors, layer, and get it to where I like it.  This is about the stage I start going back over everything, because usually, I don't like it.  I start over a lot when I work, so don't be afraid to mess up.
Eventually I get into my favorite part, which is adding details.  Highlights on apples, or the colors reflecting in chrome.  It's a lot more fun and you actually get to see your piece take shape.

Practice painting.

Blocking and blending the car.

More blending, fixing the sand.

Don't be afraid of process.  Sometimes it works to just grab a brush and attack the canvas, but other times you have to plan it out and do everything step by step.  It's a personal choice.