Are you looking for the best acrylic paint for your artistic creations? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
When it comes to choosing the best acrylic paint, there are a few things to consider. First is the quality of the paint. High-quality acrylic paints will have a higher pigment concentration, resulting in more vibrant and long-lasting colors. Another important factor is the consistency of the paint. Some artists prefer a thicker, more buttery consistency, while others like a thinner, more fluid paint.
Additionally, the type of surface you'll be painting on should also be taken into account. Some acrylic paints are formulated specifically for use on certain surfaces, such as fabric or wood. It's important to choose a paint that is suitable for the surface you'll be working on to ensure the best results.
In this article, I've researched and tested a variety of acrylic paints to identify the best options for artists of all levels. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, I've got you covered with my top picks for the best acrylic paints on the market.
Best Acrylic Paints
If you're an artist or a hobbyist, you know how important it is to have high-quality acrylic paint. Whether you're painting on canvas, paper, or wood, the right paint can make all the difference. With so many options available, it can be hard to know which acrylic paint to choose. That's why we've put together a list of the best acrylic paints on Amazon.
These paints have been chosen based on their quality, color selection, and value for money. So whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, you're sure to find the perfect paint for your next project.
Here's a quick look at the best acrylic paints.
Keep on reading to learn the details of each of paint brand I recommend. I will also include a buying guide for you to make sure you get the best paint for your needs.
If you want to take your acrylic painting to the next level, Amsterdam acrylic paint is a great choice.
Pros
- The paint is made with high-quality pigments that offer a very high level of lightfastness, ensuring your artwork retains its original color even after several decades.
- The paint film is exceptionally durable, thanks to the 100% acrylic resin binding agent, providing an everlasting result.
- The creamy medium viscosity keeps the brush strokes and textures, but can also be used for easier smooth coverage.
Cons
- The short drying time may make it difficult to blend and manipulate the paint on the canvas.
- It's cost is a little pricier than other brands like Liquitex Basics or Arteza.
What I love about the Amsterdam Standard Series paints is that they include information such as the degree of lightfastness, opacity, color number, as well as the pigments used. This information is really helpful when it comes to choosing the right colors for your project.
Even though this paint can be a little bit pricier than other brands like Liquitex or Arteza, I find that the price is still very reasonable for the quality of paint that you get.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality, durable acrylic paint that will help you create beautiful artwork, Amsterdam Standard Series acrylic paint is an excellent choice.
Winsor & Newton Galeria Acrylic
If you want to create art that truly pops, Winsor & Newton Galeria Acrylic Paint is the way to go. This acrylic paint is perfect for artists who want to create vivid, bright artwork that doesn't fade or change over time.
Pros
- Strong and vibrant colors: The Galeria Acrylic Colors are known for their excellent coverage and bright pigments. They create a smooth, satin finish that is perfect for a variety of painting styles and techniques.
- Winsor & Newton is a well-respected brand in the art world, and their Galeria Acrylic Colors are no exception.
- The Galeria acrylic colors list the permanence rating and lightfastness on the tubes/bottles.
Cons
- Thick consistency: Some users have found that the Galeria Acrylic Colors are thicker than other acrylic paints, which can make them more difficult to work with. However, this can also be an advantage if you prefer a more textured look to your artwork.
- The paint is a bit more expensive than other acrylic paints on the market. However, you get a lot of paint for your money if you opt for the larger 500ml (16.9-oz) bottle.
These paints offer a wide spectrum of pigment characteristics to choose from, as well as excellent brilliance of color, high levels of pigment strength, opacity, and permanence, strong brush stroke retention, clean color, and a smooth, satin finish.
If you're looking for a high-quality acrylic paint that will help you create artwork that truly stands out, Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Paint is definitely worth considering. The paint's brightness and vibrancy are truly unparalleled, and it's easy to work with, making it perfect for artists of all skill levels.
The paint is also incredibly durable, so you don't have to worry about your artwork fading or changing over time. The only downside to this paint is that it can be a bit more expensive than other acrylic paints on the market but it's superior quality is well worth it.
Overall, Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Paint is an excellent choice for artists who want to create bright, vivid artwork that will stand the test of time. Whether you're a professional artist or just starting out, this paint is definitely worth considering.
Pebeo Studio Acrylics
If you're looking for a versatile acrylic paint that offers vivid and deep, richly pigmented colors, then Pebeo Studio Acrylics High Viscosity is worth considering.
Pros
- The thick consistency of this paint is particularly suited to work in dimension, and it retains the imprint of brushes and painting knives, allowing you to create textured effects.
- Pebeo Studio Acrylics High Viscosity can be used alone, mixed together, or combined with Studio Acrylics mediums to expand creative possibilities.
- This paint is versatile and adhering, making it ideal for collage, working in layers, Mixed Media, and suitable for most surfaces, including canvas, cardboard, wood, metal, and Liquid Art Panels.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the quality of this paint is not as good as described, and they were unsatisfied with their purchase.
- This paint is a little pricey compared to local art stores.
Pebeo Studio Acrylics High Viscosity is a great choice for artists who want to experiment with Mixed Media techniques and work in layers. It is also great for acrylic pouring. I specially like the gorgeous colors of their iridescent line.
The paint offers a permanent and flexible film with good lightfastness, and its thick consistency allows for textured effects. However, the price may be a little steep for some.
I also love that these paints show the degree of lightfastness and opacity right on the bottle.
Overall, if you're looking for a versatile acrylic paint that offers vivid solid colors and beautiful iridescent colors, then Pebeo Studio Acrylics High Viscosity is worth considering.
Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set
If you're looking for an affordable acrylic paint set that doesn't compromise on quality, the Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set is a great option.
Pros
- The high-quality pigments used in this paint set produce vibrant and bright colors.
- It has a buttery consistency that makes it easy to blend and mix.
- It's more affordable than other similar brands.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the tubes can be difficult to open.
- The colors may not be as rich as those found in artist-grade paints.
If you're a student or beginner artist looking to experiment with acrylic paints, the Liquitex BASICS brand is a great choice. The high-quality pigments used in these paints produce vibrant and bright colors that are perfect for learning color theory and mixing, while not breaking the bank.
The buttery consistency makes it easy to blend and mix, while its versatility makes it suitable for use on a variety of surfaces. However, some users have reported difficulty opening the tubes and the colors may not be as rich as those found in artist-grade paints.
If you're looking for an affordable acrylic paint set that offers great value for money, the Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set is definitely worth considering.
ARTEZA Metallic Acrylic Paint
If you're looking for a set of stunning metallic acrylic paints that are perfect for crafting and creating fine art, the ARTEZA Metallic Acrylic Paints might be just what you need.
Pros
- Arteza offers sets of beautiful and unusual metallic shades as well as more popular metallic colors like gold, copper, and silver.
- The paints are heavy-bodied and filled with glimmering pigment, making them perfect for use on a variety of surfaces like glass, wood, canvas, rocks, and more.
- Highly pigmented color that produces true, consistent shades. These colors won’t fade over time.
- Great value when purchased in sets.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the tubes can be difficult to open.
- The paints might not be suitable for outdoor use or projects that require a waterproof finish.
The ARTEZA Metallic Acrylic Paints are a great choice for artists who want to add colorful and shimmering metallic colors to their projects.
Another thing that I like about these paints is that the bottle shows the degree of lightfastness, opacity, and pigments used in the paint.
The heavy-bodied paints are easy to work with and offer excellent coverage, while the easy-to-squeeze tubes make it easy to dispense just the right amount of paint.
If you are looking for an affordable metallic acrylic paint set that offers great value for money, the Arteza paints sets are my number one choice.
Colourarte Prizm Pour Paints
If you're looking for a acrylic paints that can add a touch of sparkle to your art, then the Colourarte Prizm Pour Paints are an amazing choice.
Pros
- These sets come with different colors, each with a unique shimmering effect, that can be used for a variety of art projects.
- The paint is easy to mix and pour, making it ideal for fluid art and paint pouring techniques.
- The paint is fade-resistant, ensuring that your artwork will stay vibrant for years to come.
Cons
- The set is a bit pricey compared to other acrylic paint sets on the market.
- Paints have a soft body consistency so they are not great for creating textured effects
- Some users have reported that the paint is not as sparkly as they expected.
- The paint bottles do not show their permanence and lightfastness ratings.
If you're willing to invest a bit more in your acrylic paints, the Colourarte paints are a great choice. The shimmering effect of each color adds a unique touch to your art, and the fade-resistant formula ensures that your artwork will stay vibrant for years to come.
The paint is easy to mix and pour, making it ideal for fluid art and paint pouring techniques. However, some users have reported that the paint is not as sparkly as they expected, and it may not adhere well to certain surfaces, such as plastic or fabric.
These paints can be purchased in sets or individually. Even though they are a bit pricey, you can frequently find discount codes and sales on the Colourarte website or you can use code love621 for 20% off.
MyArtscape Acrylic Paints
If you're looking for a versatile acrylic paint that can be used on outdoor surfaces, then MyArtscape Acrylic Paints are a great option.
Pros
- SUPERIOR PERMANENCE - Waterproof and Fade-proof (Lightfast)
- These versatile paints can be used for painting canvas, fabric, paper, ceramic, clay, wood, and metal.
- You can enjoy peace of mind with the 1-year replacement guarantee.
Cons
- Some customers have mentioned that the colors are not as vibrant as they expected.
- The colors have a shine to them, so if you prefer matte finishes, this may not be the best option for you.
- The bottles may be only half full, which could be a downside for some users.
The MyArtscape Acrylic Paints are a great choice for artists who want to experiment with different surfaces and who need a waterproof paint that is also resistant to the sun rays.
The paint is thick, has good coverage, and has a nice sheen to it. The jars make it easy to use without wasting paint. Colors are highly pigmented, and the paint dries exactly how you apply it.
These paints can be bought in sets with a variety of colors, which makes it easy to mix and create new shades.
Overall, the MyArtscape Acrylic Paint Set is a great investment for artists who want to explore different painting surfaces and enjoy the convenience of a larger bottle.
Buying Guide
When it comes to selecting the best acrylic paint, there are a few things to consider. Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist, choosing the right paint can make a big difference in the quality of your work.
In this section, we will discuss some of the factors you should consider when selecting the right paint for your needs.
Consistency or Viscosity
Acrylic paints usually come in different consistencies: heavy body, soft body, and fluid. Heavy body acrylics have a thick, buttery consistency and are ideal for impasto techniques and building texture. Soft body acrylics have a thinner consistency and are better suited for glazing and fine detail work. Fluid acrylics are much thinner and are usually used for brushing, staining, or spraying.
Consider the type of artwork you'll be creating and choose a consistency that suits your needs.
Textures
Acrylic paints also may come in a range of textures, from smooth to gritty. Some brands offer specialty paints for textures, such as crackle or sand, which can add interesting effects to your paintings.
So if you want to create textured or crackled effects in your paintings, make sure you purchase a paint with these special added ingredients.
Pigment Quality
The quality of acrylic paint is determined by the pigment load and binder used. This affects the color intensity and how well it covers the canvas.
Professional-grade paints have a higher concentration of finely ground pigment, resulting in richer, more vibrant colors and a longer lifespan. Student-grade paints are cheaper but have a lower pigment load, resulting in less vibrant colors and a shorter lifespan.
Look for acrylic paints that use high-quality pigments for a more vibrant and long-lasting color.
Finish
Acrylic paints can have a matte or glossy finish, depending on the binder used. Matte acrylics have a flat, non-reflective finish, while glossy acrylics have a shiny, reflective finish.
If you want a specific finish, then pay special attention to the reviews to be sure to get a paint that suits your needs.
Opacity
Acrylic paints also vary in opacity, or how much they block light. Some colors are more opaque, while others are more transparent. Mixing opaque and transparent colors can create interesting effects and depth in your paintings.
Higher quality brands usually list the opacity of their paints on the labels of their paint tubes while cheaper brands are usually missing this information.
Lightfastness
Lightfastness refers to how well the paint resists fading over time when exposed to light. Choose acrylic paints with high lightfastness ratings to ensure your artwork remains vibrant for years to come.
Drying Time
Acrylic paint dries quickly, which can be an advantage or disadvantage depending on your needs. If you prefer to work on a piece for an extended period, consider using a slow-drying medium or working with a retarder to slow down the drying process.
Price
Acrylic paint can vary in price depending on the brand, quality, and consistency. Consider your budget and how much paint you'll need for your project before making a purchase.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best acrylic paint for your artwork and ensure that your finished piece looks its best.
Selecting the Right Paint
Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist, choosing the right paint can make a big difference in the quality of your work. In this section, I will give you some tips for selecting the right paint for your needs.
For Beginners and Professionals
If you are just starting out with acrylic painting, you may want to consider an affordable acrylic paint set. These sets often come with a range of colors and are a great way to experiment with different techniques and styles. Some popular and good acrylic paint brands for beginners include Arteza and Liquitex Basics.
For professional artists, quality is key. Look for paint brands that offer high-quality pigments and consistency, such as Amsterdam, Winsor & Newton, and Golden. These brands are known for their professional-grade paints that offer excellent color saturation and texture.
Comparing Brands and Products
When comparing different paint brands and products, there are a few things to consider. One important factor is the quality of the paint. Look for brands that use high-quality pigments and binders to ensure that the paint will last and hold its color over time.
Another factor to consider is value. Some paint brands may be more expensive than others, but they may also offer better quality or more paint per tube. Consider your budget and how much paint you will need for your projects when comparing different brands and products.
Also consider the specific needs of your project. Some paints are better suited for certain surfaces or techniques than others.
Finally, ease of use is also an important factor to consider. Many brands offer acrylic paint in jars, which can be more convenient for those who need to mix colors or use larger quantities.
In conclusion, selecting the right acrylic paint is an important decision for any artist. Consider factors such as quality, value, and specific needs when comparing different brands and products. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, there is a paint brand out there that will suit your needs and help you create beautiful works of art.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the go-to brand for professional acrylic artists?
For professional acrylic artists, the go-to brand is usually Golden. They offer high-quality and vibrant colors that are perfect for creating stunning artwork. Their consistency is also top-notch, making it easy to achieve the desired texture and finish.
Which acrylic paints are a must for a newbie?
If you're new to acrylic painting, it's recommended to start with a basic set of colors from a reputable brand like Liquitex or Winsor & Newton. These sets usually include the primary colors, black, and white, which are essential for mixing and creating different shades.
Looking for top-notch acrylic paint for canvas work?
For canvas work, you'll want to choose an acrylic paint that has a good consistency and is easy to blend. Brands like Golden, Liquitex, and Winsor & Newton offer high-quality acrylic paints that are perfect for canvas work. Look for paints with a thick consistency if you want to create impasto effects.
What's the lowdown on the best acrylic paint sets available?
There are many acrylic paint sets available on the market, but some of the best include the Winsor & Newton Galeria Acrylic Paint Set, the Liquitex Basics Acrylic Paint Set, and the Golden Heavy Body Acrylic Paint Set. These sets offer a range of colors and are perfect for both beginners and professionals.
Which acrylic paint brushes do the pros recommend?
The type of brush you use depends on the type of painting you're doing. However, many professional acrylic artists recommend using synthetic brushes because they tend to hold their shape better than natural hair brushes. Brands like Princeton, Silver Brush, and Escoda offer high-quality synthetic brushes that are perfect for acrylic painting.
How do you spot high-quality acrylic paint?
High-quality acrylic paint will have a smooth and consistent texture, with no lumps or bumps. The color should also be vibrant and opaque, with good coverage. Also, higher quality brands list the opacity and lightfastness of their paints on the bottle. Look for brands that use high-quality pigments and binders, as these will ensure that the paint lasts longer and doesn't crack or fade over time.
