Acrylic Gouache- Turner

Acrylic Gouache is a fluid, matt acrylic paint. It dries to a smooth velvety-matt finish and is fast drying. Some brands offer specialist colours in metallic, luminescent, and iridescent shades.

Acrylic Gouache paint is ideal if you’re seeking vibrant, flat colours with even coverage. This makes it perfect for illustration, design, and fine art. Discover top brands like Holbein, Lascaux, and Turner Acryl Gouache at Jackson’s.

A Guide to Gouache

Acrylic Gouache: Popular Questions from Artists


What Is Acrylic Gouache?

Acrylic gouache is a versatile, fast-drying paint with a smooth, velvety-matt finish. It combines the opacity of traditional gouache with the durability of acrylics, making it waterproof when dry. Some ranges, such as Lascaux, are rewettable once dry.

Acrylic gouache is ideal for artists seeking vibrant, flat colour coverage. This makes it perfect for illustration, design, and fine art. Discover top brands like Holbein, Lascaux, and Turner at Jackson’s Art Supplies.

Artists use acrylic gouache for its smooth, matt finish and exceptional opacity. Its fast-drying, waterproof nature allows artists to layer colours without disturbing underlying layers, unlike traditional gouache. This makes it perfect for detailed work, solid colour blocking, and mixed media.

Additionally, good quality acrylic gouache has a high pigment concentration. This ensures excellent coverage and vibrancy, even on darker surfaces. Artists working in design, illustration, and fine art often use acrylic gouache paint for its reliability and versatility.


‘They seem to sit slap bang in the middle between the brilliant colours and opacity of acrylics and the beautiful wash effect of watercolours. They are a “best of both worlds” paint medium.

Unlike standard acrylics, the Holbein acrylic gouache holds up to being intensely diluted and somehow still hangs on to its brilliant colour. Even when mixed with copious amounts of water, I still found it easy to layer over other colours. A single layer of the white was opaque enough to completely cover a dark blue ground. The paints are seductively bright and mix really well.’

— Artist Anna Moss, Review of Holbein Acrylic Gouache on Jackson’s Art Blog.


Gouache has ancient origins. Similar tempera paints were used in Egyptian and medieval art.

The modern form of gouache emerged around the 16th century. In the nineteenth century, watercolours began to be mass-produced in tubes, and a ‘Chinese White’ tube was often added to sets for opacifying colours.

Acrylic gouache was introduced in the 20th century as a hybrid, combining gouache's opacity with acrylic’s durability and waterproof properties. Holbein was among the first paintmakers to introduce it with their Acryla Gouache range.


At Jackson’s Art Supplies, we offer a premium selection of acrylic gouache paints. This includes trusted brands like Holbein, Lascaux, Liquitex and Turner.

Our curated range includes vibrant colours, specialist finishes, and acrylic gouache paint sets ideal for artists of all levels. Backed by a 4.8-star Trustpilot rating, we provide expert advice, fast delivery, and eco-friendly packaging.

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What is the Difference Between Acrylic Paint, Acrylic Gouache, and Traditional Gouache?

Acrylic paint is versatile and fast-drying, often leaving a glossy finish. Traditional gouache offers a smooth, matt finish that can be reactivated with water. Acrylic gouache combines features of both, providing the matt finish of gouache while remaining waterproof once dry.

What Should I Be Aware of When Painting With Acrylic Gouache?

The intense pigmentation and fast-drying nature of acrylic gouache can make it tricky for beginners. Work in small sections, plan ahead, and clean tools quickly to avoid dried paint buildup. Build confidence by starting with thin layers and experimenting with coverage.

How Long Does it Take Acrylic Gouache to Dry?

Acrylic gouache typically dries in 20-30 minutes, depending on the brand and thickness of application. Allow the paint to dry fully between layers to prevent colours from merging or becoming muddy, and disturbing the paint film before it has cured.

Which Surfaces Are Best for Painting With Acrylic Gouache?

Acrylic gouache works well on surfaces like thick paper, canvas, and illustration boards. Overly textured or slippery surfaces may affect coverage.

What Techniques Are Commonly Used with Acrylic Gouache?

Popular techniques include solid colour blocking for bold designs, hard edge painting, and layering for fine detail. Many artists use it in mixed-media projects such as collage.

Can Acrylic Gouache Be Reactivated With Water Once Dry?

No, unlike traditional gouache, acrylic gouache cannot be reactivated with water once dry. Its waterproof nature ensures durability but requires careful planning during painting. Artists must work quickly and clean brushes immediately to avoid dried paint buildup.

Can I Mix Brands When Painting With Acrylic Gouache?

Mixing brands can lead to differences in drying time, consistency, and finish. Premium brands offer more reliable performance, while cheaper options may affect vibrancy or texture. Test small amounts first if combining paints across brands.

How Should Acrylic Gouache Be Stored?

Store acrylic gouache paints in tightly sealed containers. Keep them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Ensure lids are secure after use to maintain consistency and avoid air exposure, which can cause the paint to dry out.

What Tools Can I Use With Acrylic Gouache?

Acrylic gouache can be applied with brushes and palette knives. At Jackson’s, we offer a range of high-quality brushes and tools suited for both bold and intricate work.


A Guide to Gouache