Acrylic Painting Hacks Every Artist Should Know

Acrylic painting is an exciting medium, celebrated for its vibrant colors, quick drying time, and versatility. But like any art form, it comes with its challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, these acrylic painting hacks will help you work more efficiently, create stunning effects, and get the most out of your supplies. 

1. Extend Paint Drying Time

Acrylic paint dries quickly, which is both a blessing and a challenge. To give yourself more time for blending, add a few drops of water or a slow-drying medium to your paints. This simple hack will make it easier to create gradients and smooth transitions.

2. Prep Your Canvas for Success

Preparing your canvas is crucial for a smooth painting experience. Apply a thin layer of gesso to prime the surface. This not only improves paint adhesion but also enhances the vibrancy of your colors.

Tip: For an even easier setup, use the Drawlish Paint Palette to mix your gesso with paint for custom-tinted backgrounds.

3. Start with a Sketch

Before picking up your brush, sketch your composition using high-quality pencils. Drawlish Premium Sketch Pencils are perfect for creating detailed outlines or planning your design. Their smooth texture ensures that your lines won’t smudge under your paint layers.

4. Master the Dry Brush Technique

For textured effects like grass, fur, or clouds, use a dry brush with minimal paint. This technique adds a unique dimension to your work and is especially useful for creating soft, layered effects.

5. Use Paint Pens for Details

Intricate designs or small highlights can be challenging with a traditional brush.  Drawlish Paint Pens are excellent for adding fine details, outlines, or even writing directly onto your painting. Their precision and ease of use make them a must-have for any artist.

6. Keep Your Palette Organized

A messy palette can lead to muddy colors. Use a palette with multiple wells to keep your colors separated. The Drawlish Paint Palette is designed with practicality in mind, helping you organize your paints efficiently while making cleanup a breeze.

7. Experiment with Mixed Media

Acrylics pair beautifully with other mediums. Try combining acrylic paints with inks, markers, or charcoal for mixed-media masterpieces. The versatility of acrylics allows you to explore endless creative possibilities.

8. Clean Your Tools Efficiently

Acrylic paint can harden quickly on brushes and palettes if left unattended. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to prevent paint from drying out during your session. Afterward, wash brushes with warm soapy water and clean your palette immediately for a fresh start next time.

9. Play with Textures

Add depth to your artwork by experimenting with textured surfaces. Mixing modeling paste or sand with acrylic paint can create incredible tactile effects. You can also use sponges, combs, or palette knives for unique patterns.

10. Create Vibrant Color Blends

Blending is easier when you start with high-quality paints. Drawlish Acrylic Paints deliver vibrant hues that mix beautifully, allowing you to achieve stunning gradients and custom shades effortlessly.

These hacks are designed to make your acrylic painting journey smoother, more creative, and ultimately more enjoyable. With the right techniques and tools, you can elevate your art to new heights. Whether you’re perfecting gradients, adding fine details, or experimenting with textures, each tip will bring you closer to your artistic goals.

Make sure to stock up on Drawlish Acrylic Paints, Drawlish Paint Pens, Drawlish Premium Sketch Pencils, and the Drawlish Paint Palette to simplify your process and bring your vision to life. Ready to try these hacks? Share your creations and let us know which tip you loved the most!