5 Mistakes to Avoid When Using Acrylics

I love acrylics for lots of reasons including their versatility, vibrant colours, and quick drying times. I can sometimes be an impatient painter!

However, I’ve learned through experience that there are a few common pitfalls that can affect your artwork. These are mistakes I learnt to avoid over the years. They are mistakes I often see my students make. However once rectified can make a big difference.

Here are five mistakes to steer clear of when using acrylics:

1: Over-Thinning with Water

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinning acrylics with water to achieve a more fluid consistency. However, I’ve found that over-thinning can weaken the binder in the paint, leading to a less vibrant and less durable finish.

Tip: Instead of relying on water, try using acrylic mediums that are specifically designed to thin the paint while maintaining its integrity. You’ll find that these mediums allow you to achieve the consistency you want without compromising the quality of your work.

I will sometimes thin my paints with water but often these are in the early stages of the painting but just be mindful of this.

2: Ignoring the Fast Drying Time

One of the key features of acrylic paint is its quick drying time. While this can be great if you’re like me and enjoy working fast but it can also be a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re used to slower-drying paints like oils for example. I’ve experienced the frustration of having paint dry on the palette before I was ready to use it, especially in summer or if you live in a  hot country this can be a big problem.

Tip: To extend the working time of your acrylics, consider using a stay-wet palette, which helps keep the paints moist. You can also mix in a retarder medium to slow down the drying process, giving you more flexibility as you work on your piece.

3: Not Preparing Your Surface Properly

In my experience, the surface you paint on is just as important as the paint itself. If you don’t prepare your surface correctly, the paint might not adhere well, leading to issues like peeling or cracking later on. When you buy canvases they will often say ‘triple primed’ so you think you don’t have to prime them but you do.

Tip: Always prime your surface with gesso, especially when working on canvas or wood. Gesso provides a stable base that helps the paint adhere better and prevents it from soaking into the surface too much (gesso is cheaper than paint). You’ll find that your final results are much more reliable and long-lasting with this simple step.

One of my Vibrant Vision students also recently commented that she tried using a really cheap gesso and found the results nowhere near as good as the gesso I recommended. I use either Winsor and Newton Galeria or Golden.

4: Forgetting to Clean Your Brushes Promptly

Because acrylics dry so quickly, I’ve learned that leaving paint on brushes for too long can cause them to harden, which can ruin your brushes and make them difficult to clean.

I’m not going to name any names here (you know who you are lol) but I have one or two in-person students who often forget to clean their brushes after a session and the hairs do quickly ruin.

Tip: Keep a container of water nearby while you’re painting and place your brushes in it when you’re not using them. However, avoid leaving them soaking for too long, as this can damage the bristles. Make it a habit to clean your brushes thoroughly with soap and water immediately after you finish painting. Always lay them flat after washing and not uplight as they water can soak down into the base of the hairs and again ruin the brush.

Your brushes will last longer, and your work will benefit from having tools that are in good condition. There’s nothing worst than hairs in all directions or semi-hard.

5: Layering Too Thickly, Too Quickly

When I first started using acrylics, I was eager to build up layers quickly, but I soon discovered that a more thoughtful approach to layering gave me better results. One of the keys to creating depth and dimension in your acrylic paintings is to work from thin to thick. This method not only prevents issues like cracking but also enhances the overall impact of your artwork.

Tip: Begin with thin, translucent layers for your underpainting. This sets the foundation and allows you to establish the basic tones and composition without overwhelming the canvas. As you build up the layers, gradually increase the thickness of the paint, saving the thickest applications for highlights. This technique adds a sense of depth and texture to your work, making it more dynamic and engaging. By carefully considering where to apply thicker paint, you’ll find that your finished piece has a more refined and professional look.

Acrylics are a fantastic medium that can produce stunning results, but like any medium, they come with their own set of challenges. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll improve your acrylic painting experience and achieve better results in your work.

Whether you’re just starting out or have been painting for years, being mindful of these tips will help you take your artwork to the next level.