In Rembrandt’s time it was not possible to pick up a book and read how to make a painting. No, one had to be taught by another artist that was willing to share some of his secrets. Rembrandt had many pupils during his career, who by the time they studied with him, had some basic art skills developed. What they learned from Rembrandt is how to make brushes, stretch canvases and of course, how to make the paint. Students would have to make paint for Rembrandt and other students for a couple years before they were ever allowed to use the paint themselves. However, when painting they didn’t get to paint what they wanted they had to make copies of Rembrandt’s original paintings. This was a way for him to have a record of his work and later he could sell them and keep the money.