How to Do a Pour Painting

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Pour painting is the practice of mixing multiple colors of acrylic paint in a cup, then pouring the paint over a canvas. The result is an intricate design of colors and shapes that looks like a complicated, professional piece of art. Acrylic pour painting is an especially good activity for beginners and DIY enthusiasts because it doesn’t require advanced painting techniques. All you need are the right supplies and a flat surface to work on. Start by setting up your supplies, then either use the cup method to let the paint flow over the canvas or pour your paint by hand. Once your painting is dry, seal it to protect your artwork.

Method 1
Method 1 of 4:

Setting up Your Supplies

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/80\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/80\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-1.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pour painting is very messy, so don’t work on a good surface. [1] Lay out a plastic sheet or cardboard to catch any spills while you work. [2]
    • If you’re working inside, spreading a drop cloth on the floor is also a good idea, just in case there are any drips.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-2.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Gesso is an acrylic paint primer. A coat of primer helps the paint bond to the canvas and last a longer time. Wet a foam brush and dip it into the gesso. Then spread an even layer across the whole surface you’ll be painting on. Work the brush in the same direction. Let the primer dry for 24 hours.
    • You can also pour paint onto cardboard or wood surfaces. Prime them the same way.
    • Gesso is water-soluble, so clean your brush by rinsing it under the sink.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5c\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5c\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-3.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You’ll definitely get paint on your hands when doing a pour painting, so put on rubber gloves before you start. Any type will work, as long as they cover your whole hand. [3]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/38\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/38\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-4.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This type of acrylic paint is best for pouring because it’s thin enough to flow across the canvas. It’s also called liquid or high-flow acrylic. Find this type of paint at arts and crafts stores. Get several different colors, as many as you want to use on your painting.
    • There is no set number of colors to use for a pour painting. To get a good blend, use at least 4 different colors. [4] Using more than 10 will be difficult unless you’re working on a very large canvas. Stick between 4 and 10 colors for now.
    • Pick colors that complement each other. Blue, teal, silver, and purple would work together to create a tranquil setting. For a bolder look, try blending brighter colors like yellow, red, and orange.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/16\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/16\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-5.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [5] Fill each cup 1/4 to 1/3 to the top, depending on the size of the painting and how much paint you have. Use a different cup for each color so the paint doesn’t mix together yet. [6]
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f0\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f0\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-6.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Medium helps the paint bond to the canvas and resist damage over time. For pouring, flow medium is the best type because it keeps the paint thin enough to spread over the canvas. Get a bottle of flow medium designed for acrylic paint from a craft store. Then pour an amount equal to the amount of paint in each cup, so the mixture of paint to medium is 1:1. Stir each cup with a separate craft stick until the mixture is even. [8]
    • Other medium types are gel, modeling, and gloss. These won't work well for pouring because they thicken the paint.
    • If you aren’t sure which type of medium to use, tell a craft store employee that you’re planning on doing a pour painting. They can point you towards the right product for this purpose.
    • You can also use white glue mixed with an equal amount of water as a medium. Remember that this mixture won’t last as long as specialized paint medium.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6f\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6f\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-7.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Take an empty cup and place it on a flat surface. Then, pour each color into the cup a little at a time. Take the first color and just cover the bottom of the cup. Work in a pattern with the other colors. Pour in equal amounts like this until the cup is about 1/3 full. [9]
    • There are other methods for mixing the paint. Some artists prefer pouring in all or most of each color at once to get larger, solid streaks. Experiment and see which method you prefer.
    • Do not stir or mix the paint together. It’ supposed to stay separate so the pouring creates the desired effect.
    • If you’re working on a large canvas, then you may need more paint. Try filling the cup 1/2 full instead.
    8. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 4:

Using the Cup Method

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/83\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/83\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-8.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Make sure the canvas is centered so you don’t knock the cup over. Make a good seal between the canvas and cup so the paint doesn’t leak when you flip them. [10]
    • Don’t press down on the cup. You could break it and spill paint everywhere.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-9.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Grab the cup with one hand and hold your other hand flat against the canvas. Gently press them together. Then, flip them both together. Make sure the canvas and cup continue touching. Place the canvas down on the surface with the cup upside down. [11]
    • A little paint might leak out while you’re flipping the cup. That’s okay, it will get picked up when the paint spreads.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-10.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Leave the cup upside-down for a minute so the paint flows to the canvas. Then lift the cup up so it all spreads onto the canvas. The paint may come out quickly. That’s okay as long as you covered the surface you’re working on. [12]
    • Another technique for pour painting is slowly pouring the paint directly from the cup onto the canvas, without flipping them first. Try this method out as well, and stick with the one that gives you the best results. [13]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-11.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once the paint is on the canvas, it will flow freely. Pick the canvas up (this is why you’re wearing rubber gloves!) and tilt it around in different directions to spread the paint. Continue doing so until the paint covers the whole surface of the canvas. You’ll be left with an intricate design of streaks and different colors. [14]
    • Paint will probably drip off the sides of the canvas. That’s normal, and nothing to worry about as long as you covered the surface.
    5. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 4:

Hand-Pouring the Paint

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-12.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    For the hand-pouring technique, it's best to start at one side of the canvas and work across it. Choose the top portion, about 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the edge, to pour on for the best results. [15]
    • For different techniques, you could start in the center of the canvas or another location. When you're a beginner, working from one end to the other is easier.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/79\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/79\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-13.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [16] Hold the cup 6 inches (15 cm) from the canvas and tilt it slowly. Hold it over the spot when paint starts pouring out. Continue tilting the cup slowly to keep paint pouring at an even flow. [17]
    • Remember to pour slowly. Don't dump all the paint out in one spot.
    • For a swirling effect, make very small circles with your hand as you pour the paint. This is optional for added effect.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-14.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once the paint starts pooling in your original pouring location, then start moving the cup. Keep the cup tilted to maintain a steady paint flow and slowly move your hand to the other side of the canvas. [18]
    • If you want more paint on the canvas, just tilt your hand a little more to increase the flow.
    • Don't worry if you run out of paint before you get to the other side. You can spread the paint around more when you pick the painting up.
    • For other design options, try moving the cup back and forth as you pour. Experiment with different pouring directions to see which effect you like most.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/59\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/59\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-15.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once the cup is empty, then put it down and pick up the canvas. Tilt the painting in different directions to spread the paint around. [19] Pick whichever direction you like. Continue tilting the painting until it covers the entire canvas surface. [20]
    5. Advertisement
Method 4
Method 4 of 4:

Finishing Your Painting

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a0\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-16.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-16.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a0\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-16.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-16.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [22] While the paint is still wet, it'll continue flowing, so your painting will be ruined if you leave it on a non-flat surface. Find a surface that you know is that. Put down cardboard or plastic to protect the surface, then lay the painting down face-up.
    • To ensure a surface is flat, check it with a level before putting the painting down.
    • Make sure nothing will touch or fall on the painting while it dries.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-17.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-17.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-17.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-17.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Leave the painting undisturbed while it dries, or you could ruin your hard work. [23] Keep children and pets away from the painting, and check back in 3 days to see if it's dry yet.
    • If you're at all unsure whether the painting is dry yet, don't touch the front. This could leave a fingerprint and ruin the painting. Touch the side instead.
    • If the painting is taking longer than normal to dry, the weather may be too humid. Try using a dehumidifier or turning up the air conditioner.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-18.jpg\/v4-460px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-18.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-18.jpg\/aid11610659-v4-728px-Do-a-Pour-Painting-Step-18.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once the paint is dry, a layer of varnish will seal and protect the painting. Get a can of spray-on varnish from a craft store. Shake the can and hold it 6 inches (15 cm) from the canvas, then spray a coat onto the painting. Keep the can moving so the varnish doesn't pool in one spot. Let the varnish dry for another 24 hours, then hang the painting wherever you'd like. [24]
    • There are other types of varnish as well, particularly brush-on types. For a pour painting, a brush-on varnish could smudge the paint, so stick with a spray type.
    • Work in a ventilated area with an open window to prevent inhaling fumes.
    4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can you do acrylic pour without medium?
    Rebecca Schweiger
    Professional Artist & Art School Founder
    Rebecca Schweiger is a Professional Artist, Published Author, and the Founder of The Art Studio NY, New York City's #1-rated art school and global online art studio. Celebrated by TV networks, press, and celebrities including NBC, ABC, E!, Time Out New York, The Kardashians, and Big Bang Theory's Jim Parsons, Rebecca specializes in creating abstract artwork and teaching studio art classes. Her art studios provide 100+ weekly, beginner-friendly drawing and painting art classes to people around the globe. With more than 22 years of art experience, she is the author of Release Your Creativity: Discover Your Inner Artist with 15 Simple Painting Projects, and her artwork has been exhibited in more than 50 museums and galleries around the world. Rebecca holds a BFA in Painting from Boston University's School for the Arts and has participated in acclaimed artist residencies worldwide.
    Rebecca Schweiger
    Professional Artist & Art School Founder
    Expert Answer
    Technically, you can. That said, the medium will help a lot, as it gives the paint more flexibility and fluidity. The idea is to give it a consistency that is similar to honey.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 3
  • Question
    How many colors should you use in a paint pour?
    Rebecca Schweiger
    Professional Artist & Art School Founder
    Rebecca Schweiger is a Professional Artist, Published Author, and the Founder of The Art Studio NY, New York City's #1-rated art school and global online art studio. Celebrated by TV networks, press, and celebrities including NBC, ABC, E!, Time Out New York, The Kardashians, and Big Bang Theory's Jim Parsons, Rebecca specializes in creating abstract artwork and teaching studio art classes. Her art studios provide 100+ weekly, beginner-friendly drawing and painting art classes to people around the globe. With more than 22 years of art experience, she is the author of Release Your Creativity: Discover Your Inner Artist with 15 Simple Painting Projects, and her artwork has been exhibited in more than 50 museums and galleries around the world. Rebecca holds a BFA in Painting from Boston University's School for the Arts and has participated in acclaimed artist residencies worldwide.
    Rebecca Schweiger
    Professional Artist & Art School Founder
    Expert Answer
    I suggest working with at least three or four colors. You don't really need more than that, but you obviously can choose whatever colors you want.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 6
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Pour painting is a common activity in art classes. See if a studio near you offers pour painting tutorials for a fun activity with your friends.
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Create a Paint Booth in Your Garage
      How to
      Paint Aluminum
      How to
      Hydro Dip
      How to
      Paint the Hood of a Car
      How to
      Paint over Silicone Caulk
      How to
      Paint a Car Interior
      How to
      Paint Helmets
      How to
      Paint Cornhole Boards
      How to
      Hang a Canvas Painting
      How to
      Protect Acrylic Paint on Wood
      How to
      Paint
      How to Paint Baseboards with Carpet
      How to
      Do a Cubist Style Painting
      How to
      Paint Ceramic Tile
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ Rebecca Schweiger. Professional Artist & Art School Founder. Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/1k5KMfmylkw?t=170
      3. ↑ https://youtu.be/yndPwAMGEgg?t=44
      4. ↑ Rebecca Schweiger. Professional Artist & Art School Founder. Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
      5. ↑ Rebecca Schweiger. Professional Artist & Art School Founder. Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
      6. ↑ https://youtu.be/1k5KMfmylkw?t=85
      7. ↑ Rebecca Schweiger. Professional Artist & Art School Founder. Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
      8. ↑ Rebecca Schweiger. Professional Artist & Art School Founder. Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/1k5KMfmylkw?t=109
      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/1k5KMfmylkw?t=202
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/1k5KMfmylkw?t=209
      3. ↑ https://youtu.be/1k5KMfmylkw?t=229
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/yndPwAMGEgg?t=46
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/yndPwAMGEgg?t=130
      6. ↑ https://youtu.be/yndPwAMGEgg?t=46
      7. ↑ Rebecca Schweiger. Professional Artist & Art School Founder. Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/yndPwAMGEgg?t=46
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/yndPwAMGEgg?t=56
      10. ↑ Rebecca Schweiger. Professional Artist & Art School Founder. Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
      11. ↑ https://youtu.be/yndPwAMGEgg?t=118
      12. ↑ Rebecca Schweiger. Professional Artist & Art School Founder. Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
      13. ↑ Rebecca Schweiger. Professional Artist & Art School Founder. Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
      14. ↑ Rebecca Schweiger. Professional Artist & Art School Founder. Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
      15. ↑ https://www.art-is-fun.com/what-type-of-varnish-should-i-use-to-seal-acrylics-on-canvas

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 22,307 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement