Making your
own acrylic paints can give you more artistic control. Using different amounts of pigments and a variety of mediums, you can change the paint's viscosity and color saturation. This will give you more freedom for experimentation, and when executed correctly, can produce higher quality paints. Making your own acrylic paints takes some practice, but using your own paints is very rewarding.
Instructions
1. Lay a palette or piece of Plexiglas on a tabletop and mound a handful of dry pigment in the middle. Form a well in the center of the mound and fill it with distilled water.
2. Mix the pigment and water with a palette knife. The pigment will start out thick and sticky, but as you continue to mix the consistency will become smooth and glossy.
3. Add more water, as needed, to achieve a smooth consistency. Grind with a muller in a rhythmic, figure-eight motion while applying even pressure. When the dry pigment is fully dispersed in the water, it will have a creamy, malleable texture; you should not hear or feel any grittiness.
4. Scrape the acrylic paste into a jar or container with a palette knife.
5. Pour the medium over the paste in a ratio of one part pigment to two parts medium. Mix thoroughly, scraping the sides periodically to ensure even distribution. Add a dime-size amount of retarder to the paint to increase viscosity. Mix well.
6. Store your acrylic paint in tightly-sealed jars or containers.
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