Selecting the right paint to start your artwork may seem like an uphill task. But whether you choose watercolor, pastel, acrylic, or oil, much will depend on your level of patience and talent, as also on the desired look you’re trying to achieve. Each of these commonly used paints come with their own positive and negative attributes, with some suited for beginners and others for the more skilled. Read on for more details about the different paint types and how you can select the best one for your artwork.

Acrylic

A lot of experienced artists advise beginners to start painting by using acrylics, as it is considered relatively easier to paint with. There are two types of pouring medium that artists usually use, they are Floetrol and Liquitex Pouring Medium. You can check this link to know more about the two: https://acrylicpouring.com/liquitex-pouring-medium-vs-floetrol-side-side-test/.

Positives: Acrylic paints can be mixed with water and used on a wide range of surfaces, including board, paper, or canvas. It also dries fast and can be easily cleaned with water. Acrylics can also mimic the look of other paint mediums, such as oil and watercolor, and even act as a unique, beautiful fusion of the two.

Negatives: Acrylics may contain some toxins in its pigments. While there are also slower-drying forms of acrylics available, this paint usually tends to dry fast and may not be blended easily.

Watercolor

Watercolor paints provide a softer, more transparent image.

Positives: Watercolors can be easily painted on large surfaces and is relatively less expensive. It also dries fast, but allows painters the option of changing some aspects due to its dissolvable nature.

Negatives: Unlike acrylics, it is tougher to hide any mistakes in your artwork using watercolors. Watercolors are also known for its delicate nature. As it is used mainly on paper, an accidental drop of paint could potentially damage your work. Watercolor artwork done on paper needs to be protected after completion to avoid any damage.

Pastel

While pastel is considered to be a medium for drawing, any completed work of art using pastel is called a painting.

Positives: Pastel provides a very luxurious glossy feel and its colors can be easily blended. Pastel tends to dry fast and is, therefore, easy to handle and transport after completion. This is also a good option to use if you prefer to do your artwork outdoors.

Negatives: Like watercolor paintings, pastel artwork also needs protection by framing.

 

Oil

Oil paints are the oldest forms of paints that have been around for centuries.

Positives: Oil paints are known for their rich tones and allows painters to ensure detail. Oil also allows artists to blend different colors, thus, providing an opportunity to carry out changes. Oil paints are also great for creating abstract and experimental art.

Negatives: Oil paintings, however, require special care after completion as they do not cure fully and so must be stored away or handled with extreme care. Oil also tends to crack if they are used too thickly. Some mediums of oil paints may also contain toxins.

So finally, this roundup of details on the pros and cons of each paint type should provide an answer to all budding artists who are struggling with the question of how to choose the right kind of paint for their artwork. And yes, this is also intended to help even the more established artists who are looking to try out a new kind of paint but are facing the same dilemma.