It’s time to take the guesswork out of the mix with our FREE Paint Pouring Calculators!
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Knowing how much paint to use can be a frustration to some artists. While it is best to mix more paint than needed for your project, mixing too much paint can be very time-consuming and sometimes wasteful. When I first started learning about paint mixing, I watched so many videos that said “use about this much” or “just eyeball it.” These learning techniques may work for some, but I had difficulty feeling confident to start learning until I watched more to learn what “just eyeball it” really meant.
I have created two calculators for you to use to help determine how much paint is needed for your project. These calculators are a FREE resource to assist you with your project. And, they are simple to use! You will enter the height and width of your square or rectangle surface (or diameter if using a circle surface) and the depth of the side of your surface. The calculators will give you the approximate ounces of paint you will need to complete your project!
Use the Acrylic Pouring Paint Calculators
Enter the height, the width, and the depth of the side of the surface of your square or rectangle surface (or if you are using a circle surface, enter the diameter and the depth of our circle). The calculators will give you the approximate ounces of paint that you will need to complete your project. TIP: It is always best to mix slightly more paint to allow flexibility in your design process.
Tips for using the Paint Pouring Calculators
- The calculations above are provided as approximate measurements needed of fluid paint to complete your project, including any base paint layers you start with.
- Fluid paint is defined as a combination of acrylic paint, water, and a pouring medium.
- If your surface does not have sides, you wish to cover, please enter “0” in the “Depth” field.
- Different variables will alter these measurements, such as paint consistency and the pouring technique used. If you use a thicker consistency of mixed paint, you will need to add between 5%-10% more paint to the calculated measurement.
- You may also reference my “how much acrylic paint to cover canvas chart” below.
Did you know that one of the most common problems with beginners is leaving too much paint on their canvas? This can cause all sorts of problems such as cracking and crazing!
QUICK GUIDE for Common Canvas Surface Sizes
For your convenience, I am also providing a chart that I use with some common canvas sizes. This chart uses the same formulas as the Paint Pouring Calculators above, but it provides quicker AT GLANCE information for the flat surface. This chart does not include your surface’s side measurements; you will need to add that measurement. Here is my how much paint for acrylic pour chart:
EXAMPLE: How much does 2 oz of acrylic paint cover? A good rule of thumb is to use approximately 1 ounce of paint to 25 square inches of surface coverage. Using this as a guide, 2 oz of acrylic paint would cover 50 square inches of the surface.
How to Mix Paint for Pouring
Mixing paint for pouring involves combining paint, a pouring medium, and possibly other additives to achieve a smooth and consistent mixture that can be poured onto a canvas or other surface. Here are some basic steps to mix paint for pouring:
- Choose your paint colors: Select the colors of paint that you want to use for your pouring project. You can use any type of paint, including acrylic, oil, or enamel.
- Mix the pouring medium: Pouring medium is a product that you mix with your paint to create a more fluid consistency. The pouring medium also helps to extend the drying time of the paint and prevent cracking. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the pouring medium with water in the correct ratio.
- Mix the paint: Add the desired amount of paint to a mixing cup or container. For a typical pouring mixture, you can use a 1:1 ratio of paint to pouring medium. You can adjust the ratio to achieve the desired consistency for your project.
- Add any additives: Depending on the effect you want to achieve, you can add other additives to your mixture. For example, silicone oil can create cells in the paint, while alcohol can create interesting patterns.
- Mix the paint thoroughly: Use a stir stick or palette knife to mix the paint and pouring medium together thoroughly. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the container to ensure that all the paint is mixed.
- Check the consistency: The consistency of paint should be thin enough to pour easily, but not so thin that it runs off the canvas. You can adjust the consistency by adding more pouring medium or paint.
- Pour the paint: Once the mixture is ready, you can pour it onto your canvas or surface. Use a technique such as a dirty pour or flip cup to create interesting patterns and designs.
Remember to wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask when working with paint and chemicals. Also, it’s a good idea to work in a well-ventilated area to prevent fumes from building up.
Paint Pouring Near Me (Tucson, AZ)
Now scheduling Acrylic Paint Pouring Classes & Parties in Tucson, AZ!
Acrylic Pouring Classes & Parties at Your Home or Business.Â
- Birthdays
- Baby Showers
- Wine Nights
- Corporate Events & Team Building
WARNING: Acrylic art is extremely addictive!
Be prepared to have a fun time and be amazed at how much creativity you possess. Come prepared to have lots of fun!
Paint Pouring Classes Near Me (Outside Tucson, AZ)
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