Q&A for How to Thin Acrylic Paint

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  • Question
    Does folk art acrylic paint have a shelf life? I haven't used in many years and don't know if I can add something to revitalize the many bottles I have.
    Community Answer
    As long as the paints are still in fluid form, you can just add water to thin them, then use as usual.
  • Question
    Do I need to add water to acrylic paint if you don't want it to look like a watercolor?
    Community Answer
    No, acrylic paints do not need water added, but some artists add water for a watercolor look/feel or for a thinner paint consistency.
  • Question
    How do I make lines with thin acrylic paint?
    Community Answer
    Best approach is to use painter's masking tape. Use two strips and set them side by side with the opening between them the width of the line you want. Best way to apply the acrylic paint is by using an airbrush. Apply quick thin coats with it and let them dry between applications for a few minutes until you get the depth of color you are seeking.
  • Question
    Can I use a clear lacquer spray on acrylic painted gnomes?
    Community Answer
    You need to use a water-based product. Otherwise, it will make your paint run and thin out, even if it has dried.
  • Question
    I have some old dried up acrylic paint (tubes) can the paint be salvaged?
    Community Answer
    Probably not. It's just like dried up plastic. If you try to melt it, it will just burn.
  • Question
    How do I make areas of my painting look bright?
    Community Answer
    Light should be represented by softly blending the surrounding colors together with light paint, but make sure to keep your contrast levels high to differentiate.
  • Question
    How do I paint wine glasses that can be washed?
    Community Answer
    For the best result, you can get glass paint to paint on the wine glasses.
  • Question
    My acrylic paint got fully dried in its container. How can I recover it?
    Community Answer
    You can't. Dried acrylic paint can never be recovered. Neither water nor heat nor thinner/medium can recover it to usability.
  • Question
    How can I thin folk art acrylic paints in the bottles to rejuvenate them when they have gotten really thick?
    Community Answer
    Depending on how thick the paint has become, you can use a little bit of water or clear medium. If the paint is too dry, there is nothing you can do. Acrylic paint sets like plastic when dry.
  • Question
    How do I remove dried acrylic paint from my couch fabric?
    Community Answer
    Methylated spirit will soften dried acrylic paint with no effect on fabric dyes.
  • Question
    What is the name of the medium used to thin acrylic paint?
    Community Answer
    You can use acrylic thinners to thin the paint, also water can be used. This will thin the paint to a consistency of your choice. Only add a small amount at first as it will thin very quickly.
  • Question
    How do I get the right consistency to do dotting on canvas or rocks?
    Community Answer
    Add just the tiniest bit of thickening gel or make a cornstarch and water thickener. If your paint is already thick, then great. You might also want to thin it down.
  • Question
    If I am trying to get my painting to have a marbled look, what should I do to get the acrylic paints more watered down and suitable for creating this effect?
    Community Answer
    This is a cool and hard effect to create. Try using water or paint thinner. For water, make sure not to add too much or it will be very very watered down, which will not be any good. If using paint thinner, follow the directions on the bottle.
  • Question
    What do I do if I added too much water to my acrylic paint and I want to thicken it up?
    Community Answer
    Add more paint or, depending on the amount you made, allow it to sit out for 10-30 minutes. This will allow for some of the water to evaporate. Then try adding more paint.
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