Acrylic painting is one of the most versatile and accessible forms of painting. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, having the right tools can make all the difference in your creative process. In this post, we'll go over the essential supplies every acrylic painter should have if you're a TOTAL beginner. Even if you're used to Acrylic Painting, you'll learn a lot from this!
There's a lot of unhelpful information out there that makes it seem like it's more difficult to figure out than it actually is. There's only a few supplies you need and you're all set to master Acrylic paints
1. Acrylic Paints
Student vs. Artist Grade Paints
There are two main types of acrylic paints: student grade and artist grade.
- Student-grade paints are more affordable and work well for beginners, but they contain less pigment and more filler, which can result in weaker colors.
- Artist-grade paints have a higher concentration of pigment, providing richer, more vibrant colors and better mixing capabilities.
If you're serious about painting and want better results, I highly recommend investing in artist-grade paints, even if you start with just a few essential colors.
Acrylic paints were developed in the mid-20th century and quickly became a favorite among artists due to their unmatched versatility and ease of use. Unlike oil paints, they dry quickly and can be used on various surfaces, making them perfect for beginners and professionals alike.
What Colors to Buy
Jed recommends starting with a limited palette of high-quality colors, as this will help you learn color mixing more effectively. Instead of purchasing dozens of different colors, pick one red, one yellow, one blue, plus white and black:
- Titanium White – Essential for mixing lighter tones and highlights.
- Cadmium Yellow Medium – A warm yellow that mixes well.
- Cadmium Red Medium – A bright, warm red.
- Alizarin Crimson – A cooler, deeper red.
- Ultramarine Blue – A versatile cool blue.
- Phthalo Blue – A vibrant, intense blue.
- Burnt Sienna – Useful for earthy tones and neutralizing colors.
- Raw Umber – A muted brown that helps with shadows and desaturation.
With these colors, you can mix almost any shade you need while developing a deeper understanding of color theory.
2. Brushes
Choosing the right brushes is crucial. There are different types of brushes designed for various techniques:
- Flat Brushes: Great for covering large areas and creating bold strokes.
- Round Brushes: Ideal for detailing and controlled lines.
- Filbert Brushes: A mix between flat and round, perfect for blending.
- Fan Brushes: Used for creating textures like foliage and clouds.
3. Palette and Color Mixing
A palette is where you mix your colors before applying them to the canvas. Acrylics dry fast, so using a stay-wet palette or a simple plastic/wooden palette can help keep your paints workable for longer.
How to Organize Your Palette
Jed recommends keeping your colors in a structured way to make mixing easier. Arrange your primary colors (yellow, red, and blue) in a circular formation around the edge of the palette, similar to a color wheel. Keep your whites and neutral colors in a separate section, and always leave space in the center for mixing. This organization helps you see relationships between colors and makes it easier to mix accurately.
Best Way to Learn Color Mixing
Instead of relying on pre-mixed paints, the best way to develop your skills is by practicing color mixing yourself. Try creating secondary colors (greens, purples, and oranges) from your primary colors. Then, experiment with adjusting warmth and coolness by adding a touch of other hues. By keeping a color mixing journal, where you note down successful combinations, you’ll improve faster.
4. Canvas and Painting Surfaces
Acrylics can be used on a variety of surfaces, including:
- Canvas: The most common choice, available in stretched or panel form.
- Wood Panels: Provide a sturdy and smooth surface.
- Acrylic Paper: Great for practice and sketching.
5. Palette Knives
Palette knives aren't just for mixing paint—they can also be used to create texture and bold, expressive strokes in your paintings.
6. Water and Cleaning Supplies
Acrylic paints dry quickly, so keeping your brushes clean is essential. Always have a jar of water to rinse your brushes and a rag or paper towel to wipe off excess paint.
7. Mediums and Additives
Enhance your painting experience with these useful mediums:
- Gel Mediums: Add body and texture to your paints.
- Retarders: Slow down drying time for better blending.
- Gloss and Matte Mediums: Adjust the finish of your painting.
8. Easel
Using an easel helps maintain good posture while painting and provides better control over your artwork. Choose from tabletop easels, standing easels, or portable easels depending on your workspace.
9. Varnish (Optional)
Varnishing your finished artwork protects it from dust and UV damage, enhancing its longevity.
Final Thoughts
With these essential tools, you'll be well-equipped to start or continue your acrylic painting journey. By organizing your palette thoughtfully and practicing color mixing, you’ll develop a stronger foundation in painting. Experiment with different brushes, surfaces, and techniques to find what works best for you. Happy painting!
