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 painting is a fast and fun medium for artists of all skill levels. These water-based paints are easy to use and easy to clean up. If you are unfamiliar with acrylic paints, there are some basic tips that will help you improve your work and protect your paints. Keep these tips in mind and you will save time and money in the future.
Take What You Need
Artists who are new to acrylic paint will often apply too much to their palette. Acrylic paint dries much faster than oil paint. Leave your paint in the tube and only squeeze out as much as you think you will need in the next few minutes.
Start Small
If you are new to acrylic paint, do not rush out and buy all the supplies you can find. Instead, start with just a few tubes of paint that can be mixed to form other colors. Only purchase two or three different brushes to start. You can experiment with a few supplies and add others as you need them.
Experiment With Mediums
There are a variety of mediums on the market that can change the consistency or finish of acrylic paint. As you advance, you may want to try some of these instead of just thinning your paint with water. Mediums are also available to slow the drying speed of acrylic paint if you want more time to work with it.
Wear Old Clothes
Many new artists know that acrylic paint is water-soluble, but do not know that it will not come out once it is dry. To protect your outfit, wear old clothing, an apron or a smock when you are painting.
