Sinikka MattilaIntroduction
If you’ve ever worked with acrylics, you know they can be a blessing and a curse. They dry fast, they’re vibrant, and they’re versatile. But let’s be real—sometimes they dry too fast, get muddy, or crack. That’s why today, we’re diving into 12 acrylic painting hacks artists swear by that’ll seriously level up your art game.
These aren’t just basic tips—you’ll find real, studio-tested tricks in here. And by the way, if you’re into growing your art journey even further, check out the resources at Arts in Nimatti, especially the art techniques section.
Let’s get into it.
1. Keep Your Paints Wet Longer with a Stay-Wet Palette
Why It Works
Acrylics dry fast—sometimes too fast. Artists swear by stay-wet palettes because they extend the life of your paint while you work.
How to Make One at Home
All you need is a shallow container, a damp sponge, parchment paper, and a lid. Place the sponge at the bottom, lay the parchment paper over it, and voila—your paints stay moist all day.
Bonus tip: Store it in the fridge overnight. Yes, seriously.
Want more DIY tools? Check out creative habits to keep your artistic momentum going.
2. Use a Mist Bottle to Revive Drying Paint
Perfect Timing to Mist
Every 10–15 minutes, give your palette a light misting. It keeps the paint workable without thinning it too much.
What Kind of Bottle Works Best
Look for a fine mist spray bottle—the kind you’d use for plants or hair. A harsh spray can mess up your blending game.
3. Prime Your Surface Properly Every Time
The Power of Gesso
Prepping your canvas with gesso gives your paint something to grip. It also prevents your acrylics from soaking in unevenly.
What Happens When You Skip This Step
Your colors look dull. Your strokes feel draggy. And worst of all, the painting doesn’t last as long. Don’t skip it!
Learn more on the science behind surfaces in the art education section.
4. Blend Seamlessly with a Damp Brush
Get That Smooth Finish
A dry brush grabs paint too aggressively, especially with acrylics. Keeping your brush just slightly damp helps you blend edges like a dream.
This hack works best for skies, soft shadows, and portrait work—anywhere you want that buttery transition.
5. Make Your Own Glazing Medium
Transparent Layers, Made Easy
Glazing is how you get that pro look—depth, shine, and rich color. Mix acrylic gloss medium with a bit of water and pigment to create your own.
And yes, this is where art meets alchemy.
6. Use a Palette Knife for Added Texture
Why Artists Love the Knife
It’s bold, it’s expressive, and it adds oomph. Palette knives let you lay down chunky strokes or scrape into layers for texture and movement.
Feeling stuck in your process? A knife might just be the creative breakthrough you need. Dive deeper into art inspiration.
7. Save Paint with a Wet Paper Towel Trick
Simple, Smart, Effective
If you’re mixing on a makeshift palette, place a damp paper towel under your wax paper. It works just like a stay-wet palette for shorter sessions.
This hack’s been around forever—because it works.
8. Create Depth with Layering Techniques
Light to Dark vs. Dark to Light
Start with a base layer and slowly build up tones. Going from dark to light creates drama; light to dark offers softness.
Layering is the soul of good acrylic work. Need more guidance? Hit up art tutorials for step-by-steps.
9. Prevent Cracking by Avoiding Overworking
Know When to Stop
Over-blending or reworking a drying layer can lead to cracking. If something’s not blending—pause. Let it dry and paint over it later.
Patience beats panic.
10. Speed Up Drying Time with a Hair Dryer
Tips for Using Heat Without Ruining Paint
Use a low setting. Hold it at a safe distance. And always keep it moving. Too much heat = bubbles and ruined textures.
This trick is gold when you’re on a deadline or layering fast.
11. Clean Brushes Thoroughly with Murphy Oil Soap
Why Artists Swear by It
This stuff cuts through dried acrylic like butter. Soak your brushes for 10–20 minutes, rinse, and repeat if needed. They’ll look brand new.
Don’t forget: Clean tools = clean art. You’ll find more studio maintenance hacks in artist lifestyle.
12. Experiment Boldly with Mixed Media
Think Outside the Tube
Acrylics play well with others—inks, graphite, collage, you name it. Break the rules. Mix, match, and make it yours.
Need help building your own style? Explore art portfolio ideas to showcase your evolution.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—12 acrylic painting hacks artists swear by that’ll totally transform your creative workflow.
These aren’t gimmicks. They’re time-tested, studio-approved tricks from people who live and breathe paint. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s always a new way to improve, experiment, and have a blast while doing it.
Want even more? Explore Arts in Nimatti’s categories on art classes, creativity, and idea generation for endless growth.
FAQs
1. Can you mix acrylic paint with water?
Yes, but be careful—too much water can break down the binder. For better results, use a glazing or blending medium.
2. What’s the best surface for acrylic painting?
Primed canvas or acrylic paper. Anything porous that’s been gessoed works great.
3. How do I stop acrylic paint from drying too fast?
Use a stay-wet palette, mist your paints, or slow-drying mediums. Also, avoid working in direct sunlight or dry environments.
4. Is acrylic painting good for beginners?
Absolutely! It’s affordable, fast-drying, and super forgiving. You can layer, fix, and play without major commitment.
5. Can I use oil techniques with acrylics?
Somewhat. Acrylics don’t behave exactly like oils, but you can simulate effects like glazing and impasto.
6. How do I build a consistent art style with acrylics?
Practice, experiment, and document your progress. Resources like art-travel and artist life can spark inspiration.
7. Where can I sell my acrylic artwork online?
Try marketplaces and personal shops. Learn more in the art business and online art sales sections of Arts in Nimatti.