Guide To Acrylic Mediums for Beginners

Get ready to take your art to the next level with these versatile mediums! Whether you're a newbie or a pro, mastering the use of acrylic mediums is the secret weapon for for creating one-of-a-kind, stunning works of art. From thickening agents to glossy finishes, this guide will give you the lowdown on all the different types of acrylic mediums, tips for how to use them, and the pros and cons of each. So let's get creative and dive into the world of acrylic mediums and discover all the exciting possibilities they offer!

Types of Acrylic Paint Mediums 

1. Gel Mediums: Acrylic gel mediums are thicker than regular acrylic paints and come in different viscosities. They can be used to thicken paint, add texture, and increase translucency. They can also be used to create glazes and extend the drying time of paint. Gel mediums are a great way to get that "3-D" paint look.
2. Glazing Liquid: Acrylic glazing liquid is a thinner medium that can be used to create a transparent layer of paint. Think of it as a "filter" for your art. It can be used to create a glossy finish and create a wet-look effect. Glazes can have multiple different finishes, such as glossy, satin, and matte.
3. Acrylic Texture Mediums: Acrylic texture mediums are used to add texture to paintings. They are available in a variety of textures, such as coarse, fine, or extra-fine. Acrylic texture mediums can be used to create a variety of effects, such as cracking, glazing, and stippling.
4. Extender Mediums: Acrylic extender mediums are used to extend the drying time of acrylic paints to allow for longer working time. They can also be used to create a matte finish and reduce the opacity of colors.

How to Use Acrylic Paint Mediums

Before using any acrylic paint medium, it is important to read the instructions on the package. Most acrylic mediums should be mixed with acrylic paint before use, and some may require thinning with water. Acrylic mediums can be applied with a brush, a roller, or a sponge. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Acrylic Paint Mediums 

Advantages: 

• Acrylic paint mediums are relatively inexpensive to make at home, and are easy to use. For my homemade texture paste recipe, check it out here.
• They can be used to create a variety of effects, such as thickening paint, adding texture, and increasing translucency. Adding mediums allows for a whole other world of creativity and play during your creative sessions. 
• Paint mediums can also be used to extend the drying time of acrylic paints, allowing you to work longer in areas, which saves you money in paint supplies!

Disadvantages:

• Acrylic paint mediums can be expensive if bought in stores and may require some practice. The good news is there are ways to affordably DIY some alternatives. Check out some of my favorite recipes here.
• Like all acrylic paints, mediums contain micro-plastics. In the interest of our collective health and impact on our earth, I strongly suggest responsibly disposing your paint water after rinsing your brushes and tools. For some eco-friendly suggestions to get rid of your paint water, click here.
• They may also alter the color of your paint, so it is important to test them before use. It is a benefit to dilute your color for certain techniques, but if you aren't expecting it, it may be a bit of a surprise. Try out different ratios for mediums to paint on a test canvas to learn what's possible!

Acrylic paint mediums are a great way to add texture and extend the drying time of acrylic paints. While they can be tricky to use, with a little practice, you can create beautiful and unique works of art. Hopefully this guide has given you a better understanding of the different types of acrylic mediums and how to use them.