What Is Acrylic Paint?
Acrylic paint is a fast-drying, water-based medium. When it dries, the binder forms a flexible, water-resistant film that does not reactivate. This makes acrylic very different from oil paint, which dries slowly, and from watercolor, which always remains re-soluble.
Acrylic paint consists of binder, pigment, and a water-based solvent. The amount and quality of pigment determine the intensity, opacity, and durability of the color.
Which Acrylic Paint Is Best?
For hobby painting, it is worth choosing good-quality acrylics. Cheap, low-pigment paints often look dull or chalky and may fade over time. For professional practice, artist-grade paint is essential for achieving stable, archival results.
Recommended brands include Golden, Vallejo, Amsterdam, Liquitex, Schmincke, Winsor & Newton, Skovgaard & Frydensberg, and Gallery. A set of primary colors plus white and black allows you to mix a wide range of hues.
Buy larger containers (100 mL or more). Acrylic paint is used generously, and small tubes run out quickly. Plastic jars usually keep the paint fresh longer than metal tubes.
“Markers” Filled with Paint
Posca markers are acrylic paint in pen form, offering the control of a marker with the opacity of paint. They are excellent for fine details, line work, mixed media, and especially for painting on stone or other non-absorbent surfaces. More affordable alternatives are slowly entering the market.
How to Paint with Acrylics
Acrylics are among the easiest paints to start with. They are more forgiving than watercolor and require less technical preparation than oil paint. You can achieve good results quickly, though mastery still requires practice.
Start by experimenting. Try painting abstract works to explore how the paint dries and interacts. Test different brush types to find what suits your style. Some artists prefer expressive brushstrokes, while others blend the paint into smooth, even surfaces.
How to Mix Acrylic Paint
Place your colors on a palette or mixing dish. A palette knife usually creates cleaner, more even blends than a brush and keeps your brushes from wearing out too quickly.
Painting with Thinned Acrylics
Acrylic paint can be thinned with water. Absorbent paper (like acrylic or watercolor paper) can handle more thinning, while canvas generally needs a thicker consistency because it is less absorbent.
If you enjoy fluid, transparent layers, you may find inspiration in our watercolor courses: Watercolor Course – Part 1 and Watercolor Course – Part 2.
How to Remove Acrylic Paint
If the paint is still wet, rinse it off with water or wipe it with a damp cloth.
Dry paint can often be carefully scraped off with a palette knife or your nail.
On fabric, soak the area in water and scrub gently with a soft sponge.
Tip: Wear old clothes when painting — prevention is easier than removal.
What Surfaces Can You Paint on with Acrylics?
Acrylic adheres to wood, paper, cardboard, fabric, glass, plastic, and many other surfaces. When painting on paper, use thick acrylic or watercolor paper and stretch it if needed to prevent buckling.
Additional Materials for Acrylic Painting
• Easel
• Palette knife
• Drawing pencils
• Masking tape
• Damp cloths
• Floor covering
• Good natural (warm) light
• Water for cleaning brushes
• Palette or white plate
FAQ
What is acrylic paint?
Acrylic paint is a fast-drying, water-based medium that forms a flexible, water-resistant film when dry. It can be used on many different surfaces and is suitable for both beginners and experienced artists.
How is acrylic paint different from oil paint?
Acrylic paint dries quickly and can be cleaned with water, while oil paint dries slowly and requires solvents such as turpentine or mineral spirits for cleanup.
How is acrylic paint different from watercolor?
Acrylic paint becomes water-resistant when dry, whereas watercolor remains re-soluble and is typically used in transparent washes on paper.
Which acrylic paint brands are recommended?
Reliable brands include Golden, Liquitex, Amsterdam, Schmincke, Vallejo, Winsor & Newton, and Skovgaard & Frydensberg. These generally offer stronger color, better coverage, and improved durability than very cheap paints.
How do I thin acrylic paint?
You can thin acrylic paint with water, especially on absorbent paper. On canvas, use less water to maintain coverage and color strength, or use an acrylic medium if you want very thin, transparent layers.
How do I mix acrylic colors?
Place small amounts of paint on a palette and mix them with a palette knife. This gives clean, even blends and prevents paint from building up in your brushes.
How do I remove acrylic paint?
Wet acrylic paint can usually be removed with water and a cloth or sponge. Once dry, it is harder to remove and may require gentle scraping. On fabric, soak the area and scrub carefully while the paint is still fresh.
Which surfaces can I paint on with acrylics?
Acrylic paint adheres well to many surfaces, including canvas, paper, wood, cardboard, fabric, glass, and some plastics. For paper, use a heavier acrylic or watercolor paper to avoid buckling.
Interested in Other Art Techniques?
Learn about fluid acrylic techniques:
Fluid or Heavy Body Acrylic Paint
Liquid Acrylic Paint
Explore soft pastel techniques.
Or try linocut printing using acrylic paint.
