Acrylic paint is a versatile medium that can be used to create a wide variety of effects. There are a ton of different, easy acrylic painting techniques for beginners out there.
If you're new to painting, or just looking for some easy techniques to get started with, here are seven acrylic painting techniques that you can try at home.
1. Background Washes
A background wash is one of the popular and easy painting techniques for acrylics. It helps to add color and interest to your painting.
To create a background wash, start by mixing some acrylic paint with water. The ratio of paint to water will depend on the desired effect.
For a light wash, use more water; for a darker wash, use less water. Once you've mixed your paint and water, apply it to your canvas using long, even strokes. Allow the first layer to dry completely before adding additional layers of color.
2. Dry Brushing
Dry brushing is another one of the easy acrylic painting techniques for beginners. It can be used to add texture and dimension to your paintings. To dry brush, start by loading your brush with paint and then wiping most of it off onto a paper towel. Once your brush is only slightly loaded with paint, lightly brush it over the surface of your canvas in short, quick strokes.
You may need to experiment with different brush sizes and types (natural or synthetic) to find one that works best for you. Be sure to practice on a scrap piece of canvas first. As a beginner, it can take a bit of time to get the hang of dry brushing!
3. Glazing
Glazing is a process of applying thin layers of transparent color over each other to create depth and richness in your paintings.
To glaze, start by mixing some acrylic paint with a glazing medium. Once you've mixed your paint and glazing medium, apply it to your painting surface using long, smooth strokes. Allow each layer of glaze to dry completely before adding additional layers.
For interesting results, experiment with colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel. This will create the most vibrant effects.
Check out what others are buying after reading this article
4. Scraping
Scraping is a fun technique that can be used to create interesting textural effects in your paintings. It can take a bit more practice than the average easy acrylic painting techniques so be sure to practice before you experiment on your painting.
To scrape, load your brush with paint and then drag it across your painting surface while maintaining light pressure. As you drag your brush, the bristles will catch on the surface and create a textured effect. You can also use other tools such as combs or forks to create interesting scraping patterns. Just be sure not to experiment on your final painting!
5. Stamping
Stamping is another easy way to add texture and interest to your paintings.
To stamp, start by loading an ink pad with acrylic paint (you can also use regular stamp pads if you don't have any specifically for acrylics). Once your ink pad is loaded, press it onto whatever surface you'll be using for stamping.
You can use old foam rubber as it provides good texture without damaging your brushes. Experiment with different stamps and stamping patterns until you find one you like.
6. Wet-on-wet
Wet-on-wet painting is one of the easiest acrylic painting techniques to learn, and it's a great way to add color and texture to your artwork. To wet-on-wet paint, simply apply a wet brush to a wet surface. The paint will spread out and blend with the other colors on the canvas.This technique can be used to create soft, blurred edges and smooth gradations of color.
7. Toothbrush Splatters
Toothbrush splatters is one easy acrylic painting technique that anyone can try. All you need is a toothbrush, some acrylic paint, and your canvas.
First, dip the toothbrush into the paint. Then, hold the toothbrush above the paper and lightly press down on the bristles to create a splatter effect.
You can also experiment with different kinds of brushes and flicks to create different textures and patterns. Generally speaking, the more paint you use, the more pronounced the effect will be. You’ll be a regular Jackson Pollock in no time.
There are endless possibilities when it comes to acrylics. These are just a few easy acrylic painting techniques that anyone can try at home.
There are a ton of resources out there, even down to how to create the perfect shade of green. With a little practice, you'll be creating beautiful works of art in no time! Be sure to stock up on supplies before you start painting.