What is Paint Pouring?

Paint Pouring, also known as fluid art or acrylic pouring, is a painting technique where acrylic paint is mixed with a pouring medium and then poured onto a canvas or other surface. The paint is then manipulated using various tools and techniques to create unique patterns, textures, and color combinations.

The pouring medium is added to the paint to make it more fluid and pourable, allowing it to flow easily and blend with other colors. The type and ratio of pouring medium used can affect the final outcome of the painting, so experimentation is often necessary to achieve the desired effect.

There are many different techniques used in paint pouring, including the “dirty pour” where multiple colors are poured into a cup or container and then poured onto the canvas in one motion, and the “flip cup” where the cup is flipped upside down onto the canvas to create a unique pattern.

Paint pouring has become a popular form of abstract art, as it allows for a great deal of creativity and experimentation with colors and textures. It is a fun and relaxing way to express oneself through art and can be enjoyed by artists of all skill levels.

Where can I buy Acrylic Pouring Paint?

Acrylic pouring paint can be purchased from a variety of sources, including art supply stores, online art retailers, and some craft stores. Here are some options to consider:

1. Online art retailers such as Blick Art Materials, Michaels Arts & Crafts, and Nova Color Artist Paint. They offer a wide variety of acrylic pouring paints in different colors, brands, and sizes.
2. Amazon and other online marketplaces often have a large selection of acrylic pouring paint available from various sellers.
3. Michaels, Jo-Ann Fabrics, and other craft stores often carry acrylic pouring paint as well.

TIP: Before buying, consider reading reviews from other artists to find the best quality paint that suits your needs and budget.

What are the BEST paints for Acrylic Paint Pouring?

There are many brands of acrylic paints that work well for paint pouring, and the choice of paint will depend on your personal preference, the effects you want to achieve, and your budget. Here are some popular options:

1. Liquitex Basics Acrylic Paint: HIGHEST QUALITY PIGMENTS – Basics uses the same high-quality pigments and rigorous manufacturing process as our professional range. Pigments are ground with tiny reinforced ceramic beads to give fine dispersion, great color development, strength, and brightness.
2. Artist Loft Acrylic Paint: This rich, opaque paint is perfect to try out various painting techniques. 
3. Golden Fluid Acrylics: These high-quality acrylic paints are formulated with a lower viscosity than traditional heavy body paints, making them perfect for pouring techniques.
4. DecoArt Americana Premium Acrylics: These paints are specially designed for paint pouring and come in a variety of colors. They are affordable and easy to find at many craft stores.
5. Arteza Acrylic Pouring Paint: This set of pre-mixed acrylic paints is specifically formulated for pouring techniques and comes in a wide range of colors.
6. Winsor & Newton Galeria Acrylics: These acrylic paints are another great option for paint pouring, offering a smooth consistency and vibrant colors.

It’s also worth noting that some artists choose to mix their own paint pouring medium using a combination of glue, water, and/or other additives. The key is to experiment with different paints and mediums to find what works best for your individual style and technique.

How do you prepare acrylic paint for paint pouring?

To prepare acrylic paint for paint pouring, you will need to mix it with a pouring medium. Here’s how to do it:

1. Gather your materials. You will need acrylic paint, a pouring medium, a mixing container, and a stirring stick.
2. Choose your paint colors and pour them into the mixing container.
3. Add the pouring medium to the paint. The ratio of paint to medium can vary depending on the desired consistency and effect, but a good starting point is a 1:1 ratio.
4. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the paint and medium are fully combined. Be careful not to introduce too many air bubbles into the mixture, as this can affect the final result.
5. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little bit of water to thin it out. Be careful not to add too much water, as this can cause the paint to become too thin and runny.
6. Continue to stir the mixture until it has reached the desired consistency. It should be thin enough to flow easily, but not so thin that it runs off the canvas or surface.
7. Your acrylic paint mixture is now ready for pouring!

Keep in mind that different brands of paint and pouring medium may require different ratios or mixing techniques, so it’s always a good idea to experiment and test your mixture before using it in a final piece.

Learn Fluid Art with Erika!

Paint Pour Academy was created to help streamline the learning process and teach you the basics of Acrylic Paint Pouring and Resin Art while having some fun along the way.

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Fluid art is so much fun to create, but it can be hard to get the results we want. Start enjoying the art you create with Erika’s curated classes including access to her ebooks, videos, members-only tips and tricks, and so much more!

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