Kimberly A. Smith has been a freelance writer for two years. She graduated from the University of California at Davis and the California Culinary Academy, then pursued a career baking wedding cakes. During her time at CCA, she received certification in nutrition and food safety. She currently attends the University of Oregon School of Law.
Acrylic paints are an increasingly popular alternative to oil paints. These polymer-based paints dry quickly and are water-soluble, allowing for several different techniques that can change the look of your painting. If you are learning to paint with acrylics, experiment with some of the great options that this versatile paint provides.
Glazing
Because you can thin your acrylic paint with water, it is easy to change it to a consistency that can be used as a glaze. Then you can apply it over the surface of a painting to change the colors while still allowing the form to show through. Glazing can soften the look of a painting or give it an overall coherency.
Pouring
Because acrylic paint dries fast, it can be poured onto the canvas instead of painted on. Dilute your paint with water to create a fluid texture, pour it onto the surface of the canvas, and move the canvas to spread the paint. Different colors will blend in natural ways when you use this technique.
Skipping the Palette
If acrylic paints are left on a palette for too long, they will dry out and be wasted. However, you can avoid this mess by applying a small amount of paint directly onto the brush from the tube. This technique can be especially effective when you intend to change the look of the painting with glazing.
