Acrylic paints can greatly improve the quality and longevity of your artwork. However, many of us struggle to find the balance between vibrant paint and durable paint.
At the same time, there are so many options of acrylics that we are often overwhelmed.
Here are seven simple yet important tips for choosing acrylic paints that will give positive results and improve the longevity of your work.
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- 1. Consider Pigment Quality First
- 2. Choose the Right Paint Consistency
- 3. Evaluate Lightfastness Ratings
- 4. Check for Durability and Flexibility
- 5. Match Paint Finish to Project Needs
- 6. Test Colour Mixing and Compatibility
- 7. Consider Packaging and Storage Options
- Make Informed Choices for Long-Lasting Art
1. Consider Pigment Quality First
The pigment of your acrylic paint is what determines the richness of the colour and longevity of the colour.
For example, a cheaper paint will often appear dull and more fadeable, while a more expensive paint will offer a richer and more consistent colour.
Always remember that quality standards will help your work maintain quality and brilliance after exposure and handling, so make your choice wisely.
2. Choose the Right Paint Consistency
Some brands offer heavy-bodied acrylic paints, which are more thickly textured and paint more textured effects and hold brush strokes.
While other brands offer more liquid paints, which are better for washes, blending and fluid pouring techniques.
Your painting process will be easier and more enjoyable if you use the best fluidity levels for the effects that you are aiming to achieve.
3. Evaluate Lightfastness Ratings
The ratings of acrylic paints reflect the degree of their fading resistance and how from exposure to light. If you use high-lightfastness-rated paints, your artwork will remain vibrant for a longer time.
This is important for commissioned artworks to keep the original colour of the artwork for a longer time. Checking the paint details from the manufacturer will save you from disappointment later.
4. Check for Durability and Flexibility
A good acrylic paint means that the paint can expand and contract with shifts in the surface underneath.
This quality is important when painting on canvas, wood or other surfaces that may stretch or shift. Durable acrylic mediums often enhance surface flexibility.
Selecting paints designed for long-term performance provides peace of mind and ensures your work can be enjoyed for years.
5. Match Paint Finish to Project Needs
Acrylic Paints impact the final look. Colours can be matte, satin, or gloss. Matte finishes diffuse glare and offer a smooth and uniform look, while gloss finishes enhance depth and brightness.
Keep in mind that satin seems a bit more elegant; it provides a smooth surface without glare.
Don’t forget that carefully picking the right finish provides your project with a more elegant look and enhances colour.
6. Test Colour Mixing and Compatibility
What colour blending works best for you is largely dependent on the grade of the acrylic paints you are using.
Higher quality acrylic paints will blend without leaving paint residue and will give you tonal and shade control.
You should always thoroughly test the acrylic paint combos to ensure satisfactory and predictable results before you start painting on top of your carefully planned artworks.
7. Consider Packaging and Storage Options
Paint that is packaged in jars and that are sealed may be better for long-term storage, while paints that are packaged in tubes are better for more control.
Store your paints in an airtight container and in a place that is away from light to better prevent your paints from drying, and to extend the life of your paints.
This will help to maintain the quality of your paints as well as their functionality for future use.
Make Informed Choices for Long-Lasting Art
In order to last, your artwork needs to be made with extended consideration, consistent with a quality finish, and should be lightfast.
With acrylic paint, to create a lasting artwork, you must test pigment mixes, lightfastness, and light quality.
These seven suggestions will give you the knowledge to make confident selections when it comes to paint, and will guarantee that all your work will look good.
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