Medios Acrílicos- Daler Rowney
Acrylic Mediums: Popular Questions from Artists
Acrylic mediums are additives designed to modify the consistency, texture, sheen, or drying time of acrylic colour. Made from acrylic polymer emulsions, they mix seamlessly with acrylic paint, maintaining its vibrant colour. Some mediums can be used with acrylic gouache, acrylic ink, and other acrylic-based mediums.
Acrylic mediums are designed to alter the characteristics of acrylic paints, allowing for expanded creative techniques and customisation of paint properties.
Common mediums include gels, texture pastes, and fluid mediums, each offering unique effects. Artists use acrylic paint mediums to expand the versatility of their paints, enabling techniques like glazing, impasto, and pouring.
Artists use acrylic mediums to unlock additional creative possibilities with their paints. These mediums allow control over texture, flow, sheen and drying time, catering to a variety of artistic styles.
For instance, acrylic pouring mediums enable fluid techniques, while gel and paste mediums create thick, textured effects. By adjusting these variables, artists can refine their techniques and experiment with new ways of creating art.
‘Acrylic paint is one of the most versatile paints, it can be formulated with a vast range of consistencies and qualities and easily adapted with mediums. This means it can be used with techniques similar to those used with watercolour washes, impasto oil, pouring inks or even gouache, depending on the acrylic and mediums you select.’
– Tegen Hager-Suart, ‘Golden Acrylic Mediums Comparison’, Jackson’s Art Blog
The use of acrylic mediums began with the introduction of acrylic paints in the mid-20th century. Mediums have been an important part of the painting tradition for artists working with oil paints and watercolour, so it is unsurprising that makers of acrylic paints were quick to develop mediums for acrylic painters.
Over time, innovative products such as slow-drying gels and acrylic pouring mediums have become popular, enabling new techniques and expanding artistic possibilities.
At Jackson’s Art Supplies, we offer a premium range of acrylic mediums to suit every artistic need. From fast and slow-drying mediums to gels and texture pastes, our selection includes trusted brands and high-quality products.
With a 4.8-star Trustpilot rating, we are known for expert advice, fast delivery, and eco-friendly packaging. Whether you're experimenting with textures or refining your technique, Jackson’s provides the tools and support to help you create.
Shop Acrylic Mediums: Texture Pastes, Gels, Pouring & More
Explore our extensive range of acrylic paint mediums and discover tools for creating unique textures, adjusting drying times, and expanding your techniques. Browse options like flow mediums, acrylic pouring mediums and texture pastes, all available for fast delivery. Visit our Contact Us and Help & Advice pages for support.
What Are Some of The Different Types of Acrylic Mediums?
There are many different types of acrylic mediums, such as glass bead gels, crackle paste, and pumice gel. These allow you to control texture, consistency, sheen, and drying time.
How Can I Use Mediums to Change the Texture of Acrylic Paint?
Gels and texture pastes can thicken acrylic paint to create impasto effects and textured surfaces. Specialty mediums like Glass Bead Gel add unique, dimensional textures.
Can I Use Acrylic Mediums to Prepare a Canvas?
Yes, acrylic gesso is a type of medium used to prime canvas. It creates a slightly textured surface that improves paint adhesion and durability. Apply gesso with a brush or spatula and allow it to dry before painting.
Acrylic size is also used for sealing substrates. Some mediums such as gloss and matt medium can also be used to seal absorbent surfaces.How Can I Use Mediums to Adjust the Flow of Acrylic Paint?
Fluid mediums increase the flow of acrylic paint. This is ideal for detailed work or smooth applications. Slow-drying mediums extend blending time, mimicking the behaviour of oil paints. These acrylic mediums offer precision and flexibility.
How Do Certain Mediums Impact the Drying Time of Acrylic Paint?
Slow-drying mediums delay the drying process. This allows artists to blend and layer their work more easily. These acrylic paint mediums are perfect for achieving smooth transitions and working over longer periods of time.
Golden Open and Atelier Interactive are unique acrylic paints developed for artists who want to work with extended open times. Atelier Interactive has a unique Unlocking Formula which can keep your acrylic paint wet for as long as you need.
Can You Mix Multiple Acrylic Mediums Together?
Yes, most acrylic mediums are designed to be compatible. Always test on a small sample before applying to artwork.
How Can I Combine Acrylic Mediums with Paint?
To mix a medium into acrylic paint, simply place a small amount of paint on your palette, then add the desired amount of medium directly to the paint. Mix thoroughly with a brush or palette knife until well combined; the ratio of medium to paint will depend on the specific product and the desired results.
What is an Acrylic Pouring Medium?
Acrylic pouring medium is a fluid additive that changes the consistency of acrylic paint, making it suitable for pouring techniques. It ensures smooth, even coverage and vibrant colours ideal for abstract, fluid artwork.
How Can I Take Care of My Tools While Using Acrylic Mediums?
Most acrylic mediums are made from the same core materials as acrylic paints, so you can clean both in the same way. Clean brushes and tools immediately after use to prevent buildup. Rinse thoroughly with water, and for stubborn residue, use a mild soap or a dedicated brush cleaner.
Read ‘Brush Cleaning Tips for Painters’ on Jackson’s Art Blog to learn more.