More on Acrylics

Acrylic paints can basically go on any surface. Traditionally, wood, canvas, and masonite are used. Some artists might use illustration board or paper, however if too lightweight of paper is used it can buckle from the liquid in the paint.

Acrylic mediums can alter the appearance, hardness, flexibility, texture, and other characteristics of acrylic paint. If an artist wants texture in acrylic paintings, he adds texturing mediums which thicken the paint and allow it to dry in different ways such as crinkly surfaces, rough sandy edges, or stiff peaks.

Acrylics are useful in mixed media as when once dry, artists can use pastels, charcoal, or pen on top of the dry surface.

Acrylic paints were invented about 50 years ago, so they have not had the test of longevity that oil paints have had, but so far they seem to yellow less.