Acrylic Paints 101: Your Ultimate Guide to Starting with Acrylics

Have you ever stepped into an art supply store and been greeted by a rainbow of paint tubes, each one beckoning you to take it home? It’s tempting to grab everything in sight, but before you do, let’s talk strategy. You don’t need a full arsenal of supplies to begin your creative journey. With just a few essential tubes of paint, a suitable surface, and a brush or two, you’re ready to dive in. While having a variety of materials can enhance your projects, being resourceful and creative with what you already have is key. In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of acrylic paints, answer common questions, and share helpful tips to get you started on your artistic adventure.

Why Are Acrylic Paints So Exciting Yet Confusing?

Walking into an art supply store can be a sensory overload. You’re surrounded by a stunning array of vibrant paint tubes, each promising to unlock a new world of colour and creativity. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with this helpful guide to navigating the colourful world of acrylic paints.

Understanding Acrylic Paints

1. What Makes Acrylic Paint Special?

Acrylic paint is celebrated for its versatility and ease of use. It dries quickly, making it ideal for layering and time-sensitive projects. Its water-based formula allows for easy clean-up and the ability to mix with other water-based mediums. Acrylics can be applied in a variety of ways, from bold, textured strokes to delicate glazes, making it a go-to choice for many artists.

2. Quality Matters

When selecting acrylic paints, you’ll notice a range of prices. Higher-quality paints contain more pigment and superior binders, resulting in more vibrant colours and better durability. On the other hand, student-grade paints are often more affordable but may contain fillers that affect the overall colour and texture. The key is to find a balance that suits both your budget and your creative needs.

Starting Out: Essential Tips for Beginners

1. Choose the Right Paints

For beginners, start with a basic set of primary colours—cyan, magenta, and yellow—along with titanium white. This simple palette will allow you to mix a wide range of hues and get creative. Brands like Liquitex Basics and Winsor & Newton Galeria offer excellent quality at budget-friendly prices, making them perfect for artists just starting out.

2. Understand Paint Viscosity

Acrylic paint comes in a variety of viscosities, or thicknesses. Each type is suited for different techniques:

• Heavy-body: Thick and ideal for textured effects. This paint holds brushstrokes well and is great for impasto techniques where you want to build up a three-dimensional surface on your canvas.
• Fluid: Thinner and more fluid, perfect for smooth washes or detailed work. Fluid acrylics work well for techniques like glazing and staining, or when you want the effect of watercolour with the vibrancy of acrylics.
• High Flow: Extremely thin, almost like ink. High Flow acrylics are great for calligraphy, airbrushing, and fine detail work. They offer intense pigmentation and can be used with a variety of tools, including brushes, pens, and airbrushes.

3. Experiment and Adapt

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and types of paint. Mixing different acrylic paints is common and often leads to unique results. Use the materials you already have creatively, and don’t feel pressured to buy everything all at once. Let your creativity guide your choices.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Why does my paint sometimes dry darker?
A: Acrylic paint’s binder can dry clear, which may cause colours to appear darker once the paint is dry. This is perfectly normal. Higher-quality paints tend to experience less of this shift in colour.

Q: Can I thin my acrylic paint with water?
A: Yes, you can thin your acrylic paints with water, but be careful not to dilute them too much, as this can affect their adhesion and durability. For best results, use acrylic mediums designed for thinning rather than just water.

Q: How should I store my acrylic paints?
A: Store your paints in a cool, dry place, ensuring the lids are tightly sealed to prevent them from drying out. If your paint has already dried, you can usually revive it by adding a small amount of water or an acrylic medium.

Q: Are there health considerations when using acrylic paints?
A: Acrylic paints are generally safe to use but always work in a well-ventilated space and avoid prolonged skin contact. Some pigments can be toxic, so check labels for safety precautions and handle paints with care.

Embrace Your Artistic Journey

Starting with acrylics is an exciting and rewarding experience, but the most important thing is to simply start. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect let your creativity take the lead. The best way to learn is by diving in, experimenting, and having fun with your materials. If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to leave a comment or visit me at the art supply store.

Happy painting!