What Mediums Do You Prefer?

Question

I am a beginner at Acrylic painting and I am reading up on mediums to use but I am not sure what to go with.

Answer 1

First off, you really don't even need acrylic mediums to paint. I've been using acrylics for twenty years and stopped using mediums after the first few months. You can get virtually every effect you want, from realistic art to heavy textured abstracts without using mediums by simply learning and experimenting with the paint you use.

Second, the only mediums I could imagine an artist really needs would be the clear gels in case you wanted to go for an opaque look, a transparent look. But even this you can get through the thinning down of the colors you use with simple water.

Answer 2

Medium

Answer 3

If you like working in layers and using fast-drying paint, acrylic is for you.
If you like to blend easily and slowly (and do not mind a long drying time), then oil paints are for you. Remember, however, that they require good ventilation because of the use of turpenoid/turpentine.
Otherwise, watercolor is a tricky, but interesting, medium. Also, guache paint is water-based and can be changed (blended when made wet) even after it dries (unlike acrylic/oil)

Answer 4

Here are two products I have been using a lot: Grumbacher Acrylic Retarder, which slows paint drying time but also makes it flow better, which is great for when you need a lot of control; and makes the paint more translucent, which is terrific for glazing effects. The other one is Golden Gloss Acrylic Glazing Liquid. It can be added to paint for glazes like the retarder but it's somewhat thicker. Golden is the brand name by the way. I use it a lot brushed on top of the paint after its dried to build up layers of texture and luminosity. After the final layer of paint it can be used like a varnish to make whole or part of the finish glossier.

Answer 5

I like the spontaneity of watercolors, both European and Chinese. They are used differently you know. Oils and acrylics are messier, but acrylics are versatile. They can be used like watercolors or oils. I paint leather jackets with a special acrylic leather paint. For murals on plaster walls, I use casein paints. I do some ceramics and enameling. Each material upon which one paints requires its own medium.

Answer 6

Acrylic , it give me more freedom to explore textures

Answer 7

I prefer oil and canvas myself. It's the best for me, and I don't mind waiting for it to dry.

Answer 8

iol on canvas. vibrant colors. =]]