6 Tips To Get You Started With Acrylic Painting - The Artist Life
Materials you will need
First, gather all the necessary materials such as quality acrylic paints, brushes, a canvas or painting surface, a palette, and water or medium for thinning the paint.
I love to use Golden Fluid acrylics. They have such vibrant colors and are easier to achieve the look I am going for.
My painting surface of choice is a wood panel. The smooth, hard surface is great for creating.
As far as brushes go, with the fluid acrylics, any synthetic brush will do. No need for fancy and expensive brushes.
I use Liquitex matte medium to thin my early layers to show some of the underpainting through.
Preparing your substrate
Next, prepare your painting surface by applying 2-3 coats of gesso to ensure that the paint adheres well and the colors appear vibrant. Sanding between coats is best. If on a budget, use flat house paint as your gesso.
Color mixing
Now it's time to mix your colors! Acrylic paint is versatile and allows for endless color combinations, so feel free to experiment and create your own unique shades. Putting your color swatches in a watercolor journal is a great way to keep track of the beautiful colors you have created. Use a paint palette with separate wells to keep your colors clean and pure.
Using layers
As you begin painting, remember to layer your paint to create depth and texture. Also, don't be afraid to use a variety of brush strokes to add interest and texture to your piece. I often start with an underpainting of a thin layer of paint in a color that is a complement to the final painting.
Give it time to dry
Keep in mind that acrylic paint dries quickly, so make sure to clean your brushes regularly and let each layer dry completely before adding another layer or making any corrections. I keep a jar of water to wash the brushes out and a cloth or paper towel to dry the brush before using again.
Varnish
Once you've completed your painting, don't forget to seal it with a protective coating to keep it looking fresh and vibrant for years to come. A varnish can keep your painting looking great for years to come.
Bonus tip
Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and express yourself through your art! Keep practicing and experimenting to find your own unique style. This process is slow and quiet. We do it for the process so we can learn and grow. The finished paintings will improve over time and if you focus on the process, you will not stress over it as much.