Tempera paints are common in schools because they’re easy to use and inexpensive. Even though tempera paint is popular, there’s some confusion about what it is and what it’s made from. What is tempera paint? Tempera paint is a water based paint that cleans up with soap and water. Most brands are certified non toxic and are free from allergens. …
Does Watercolor Paint Expire? Everything You Need to Know
Have you ever found an old set of watercolor paints that you had forgotten about? It’s like finding hidden treasure, but the question is–are they still good? Does watercolor paint expire? According to manufacturers, tubes of watercolor will last for 5 years. Pan watercolors should be good for at least 10 years. This varies depending upon the storage conditions. Moldy …
How to Prevent Watercolor Paint From Beading Up on a Palette
There’s nothing like a brand new watercolor palette to give your creativity a kickstart. But the problem with a new palette is the paint tends to bead up when you mix colors on it. How do you prevent watercolor paint from beading up on a palette? The beading will eventually go away just by using the palette. Allowing the watercolor …
What’s the Difference Between Gouache and Acrylics?
Acrylics and gouache are water based paints that clean up with soap and water. While they can have similar appearances, they each have unique properties which make for completely different painting experiences. What is the difference between acrylics and gouache? Gouache paint is opaque watercolor then remains water soluble after it dries. You can use it on paper or illustration …
Can You Use White in a Watercolor Painting? Includes Examples
When you’re first learning how to paint with watercolors, you’ll wonder if it’s okay to use white in your paintings. Teachers sometimes discourage the use of white, but famous watercolor artists use it successfully in their paintings. So, what’s the answer? Can you use white in a watercolor painting? Yes, you can use white in a watercolor painting. Watercolor artists …
How to Sign a Painting – The Ultimate Guide With Examples
In this post, I explain why you should sign your paintings, and how to go about it. I include examples of signatures from famous artists, and give pointers for signing your name in various mediums. A signature that’s well done has many advantages. It can help others to identify your work, and find you online. Signatures are useful in combating …
The Complete Guide to Canvas Panels
If you’re new to canvas panels, you may have a number of questions about what they are and how to use them. In this post, I’m going to explain all of the various aspects of painting on canvas panels. What Is a Canvas Panel? Canvas panels are rigid boards with a layer of canvas glued to them, they’re a good …
How to Make Acrylics Thicker – Gels & DIY Solutions
You could buy another set of paints when you need thicker acrylic paint, but that’s expensive. A much more economical solution is to thicken the paints you already have. How do you make acrylics thicker? Select an acrylic gel that’s thicker than the paint you’re using and mix it into the paint. You can also use molding paste, or thickening …
Do You Need to Stretch Acrylic Paper?
If you’re new to acrylics, you may be wondering if you have to stretch acrylic paper before painting on it. Do you need to stretch acrylic paper? You don’t have to stretch the acrylic papers that I mention in this post. You can begin painting on them without any preparation because they’re extra thick and contain enough sizing to prevent …
What Colors Make Brown? The Ultimate Guide to Mixing Brown
In this post, I demonstrate how to mix brown, dark brown, and light brown. I include a video demonstration and a free PDF that contains all of the recipes for mixing brown. These formulas will provide similar results in acrylics, oils, watercolor, and gouache. How do you mix brown? Brown is basically dark red or dark orange so the easiest …
