Embarking on a journey into the world of acrylic painting is an exciting endeavor, especially for beginners. While mastering the techniques and understanding color theory are important aspects, choosing the right painting surface is equally crucial to achieve the best results.
The surface you paint on can impact texture, color vibrancy, and overall durability.
In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to acrylic painting surfaces, including canvas, paper, wood, sketchbooks, and even some unusual surfaces, offering valuable insights for beginners to make informed choices and kick-start their artistic exploration.
Get my exact supply list for acrylic paintings, with helpful color mixing tips that you can start implementing right away!
1. Stretched Canvas
Stretched canvas is a classic and popular choice for acrylic painting. It consists of a fabric (typically cotton or linen) stretched tightly over a wooden frame.
Stretched canvas offers a professional and ready-to-hang surface for your artwork. It comes in various sizes, providing flexibility for different artistic needs.
Canvas provides a balanced absorbency and resistance, allowing for easy paint application and blending. Its slight texture adds depth and visual interest to the artwork.
Stretched canvas is durable, lightweight, and suitable for various painting techniques. It remains one of the go-to surfaces for acrylic painters of all levels.
2. Canvas Panels
Canvas panels are an alternative to stretched canvas and offer a sturdy and convenient surface for acrylic painting.
They consist of canvas sheets mounted on a rigid board, providing a portable and ready-to-use option. Canvas panels are available in different sizes and can be easily framed or displayed without stretching.
Similar to stretched canvas, canvas panels offer a slightly textured surface that allows for paint application and blending. They are particularly suitable for detailed work and plein air painting.
Canvas panels provide stability and durability, making them a reliable choice for acrylic painters.
3. Wood Panels
Wood panels provide a solid and stable surface for acrylic painting. They come in various types, such as birch plywood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and hardwood.
Wood panels offer a smooth and firm support that resists warping or bending over time.
To paint on wood panels, it is essential to apply a primer or gesso layer to create a non-absorbent surface that ensures proper paint adhesion. The smoothness of wood panels allows for precise brushwork and clean lines.
They are particularly well-suited for detailed work, and their durability makes them suitable for long-lasting acrylic paintings.
4. Acrylic Paper
Acrylic paper is specially designed for acrylic painting and offers a lightweight and economical option for artists.
Acrylic paper has a coating that prevents the paint from seeping through, providing a smooth and consistent surface for paint application. It comes in various weights, with heavier paper being more suitable for acrylics.
Acrylic paper is ideal for practice, studies, and quick sketches. It is also a great option for artists who prefer a portable surface for outdoor painting or sketching on-the-go.
While not as durable as canvas or wood, acrylic paper can still be framed or mounted for preservation.
exploring unusual surfaces
Acrylic painting is not confined to traditional surfaces such as canvas, paper, or wood. In fact, artists have been pushing the boundaries of creativity by exploring and experimenting with unconventional surfaces.
By embracing these unusual surfaces, you can add an extra layer of intrigue and uniqueness to your acrylic artworks.
IMP: If you are a beginner, stick to the above list. If you have been painting with acrylics for some time, try out the list below!
5. Sketchbooks
Sketchbooks are not typically associated with acrylic painting, but they can serve as a convenient and portable option for beginners. Look for sketchbooks specifically designed for wet media, as they have thicker, heavier paper that can handle acrylic paints.
While sketchbook paper may not be as durable as canvas or wood, it allows beginners to practice and experiment with acrylic techniques on a smaller scale.
Sketchbooks are ideal for sketching ideas, color studies, and quick observations.
They offer a compact and easily transportable option for painting on-the-go or during outdoor sessions.
6. Metal
Metal surfaces, such as aluminum panels or sheets, provide an intriguing and contemporary backdrop for acrylic paintings.
These surfaces offer a smooth and reflective quality that can enhance the luminosity and vibrancy of acrylic colors.
It’s important to note that metal surfaces require special preparation before painting to ensure proper adhesion. Applying a suitable primer or preparing the surface with abrasion techniques will help the acrylic paint adhere effectively.
Experimenting with metal surfaces opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to explore the interplay of light and reflections within your artworks. The metallic sheen can create striking effects, particularly when combined with transparent and metallic acrylic paints.
Check out Dina Brodsky who paints on circular copper surfaces.
7. Glass
Fabrics and Textiles:
Venturing into the world of fabric and textiles adds a tactile and dimensional quality to acrylic paintings. Using fabrics as a surface allows you to explore the fusion of painting and textile art, creating unique mixed-media pieces. Cotton, linen, silk, and canvas fabrics can be used as painting surfaces, providing a versatile range of textures and absorbencies.
Before painting on fabric, it is advisable to prepare the surface by applying a fabric medium or using acrylic paints specifically formulated for textiles. This will ensure durability and prevent the colors from fading or washing out. Acrylic paintings on fabric can be framed or transformed into functional items such as pillows, tote bags, or wall hangings.
8. Fabrics and Textiles
Venturing into the world of fabric and textiles adds a tactile and dimensional quality to acrylic paintings. Using fabrics as a surface allows you to explore the fusion of painting and textile art, creating unique mixed-media pieces.
Cotton, linen, silk, and canvas fabrics can be used as painting surfaces, providing a versatile range of textures and absorbencies.
Before painting on fabric, it is advisable to prepare the surface by applying a fabric medium or using acrylic paints specifically formulated for textiles. This will ensure durability and prevent the colors from fading or washing out.
Acrylic paintings on fabric can be framed or transformed into functional items such as pillows, tote bags, or wall hangings.
9. Found Objects
Repurposing found objects as painting surfaces adds an element of surprise and innovation to your acrylic artworks. Nearly any object with a suitable surface can become a canvas for your creativity.
Consider exploring surfaces such as driftwood, old furniture, metal lids, vinyl records, or even unconventional items like rocks or seashells.
When painting on found objects, proper surface preparation is crucial. Clean the surface and apply a primer or gesso layer to ensure proper adhesion and longevity.
Acrylic paints can be used to transform these objects into unique and visually captivating art pieces, merging the worlds of painting and sculpture.
10. Walls
Acrylic painting on walls can transform a space into a vibrant and personalized work of art. Whether it’s a mural, a decorative accent, or an entire room, painting on walls adds a dynamic and large-scale element to your artistic expression.
Before starting a wall painting project, it’s important to prepare the surface properly. Clean the wall thoroughly and apply a base coat or primer to ensure good paint adhesion.
Acrylic paints are suitable for wall painting as they dry quickly and offer excellent color vibrancy. Consider using high-quality acrylic paints specifically formulated for interior use, as they provide durability and longevity.
Additionally, using acrylic sealants or varnishes can help protect the painted surface and enhance its longevity.
11. Plastic
Acrylic painting on plastic surfaces opens up a range of creative possibilities. Plastic materials such as plexiglass, plastic sheets, or even plastic objects can be transformed into unique art pieces.
Painting on plastic requires careful surface preparation to ensure proper adhesion. Applying a primer or a suitable plastic adhesion promoter will help the acrylic paint adhere effectively.
Experimenting with different techniques, such as pouring or layering translucent colors, can yield fascinating results on plastic surfaces.
12. Skin
Acrylic painting on skin, also known as body painting or temporary tattoos, offers a captivating and temporary form of self-expression.
It’s essential to use high-quality, non-toxic, and skin-safe acrylic paints specifically formulated for body painting. These paints are water-based, easily washable, and safe for use on the skin.
Before painting on the skin, conduct a patch test to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivities. It’s important to follow proper hygiene practices, such as cleaning the skin before painting and using clean brushes or sponges.
Body painting allows artists to explore intricate designs, vibrant colors, and the human form as their canvas. It is a unique and temporary form of artistic expression that can be enjoyed at events, festivals, or personal artistic projects.
Pin the below image in your Pinterest board for future reference.
Selecting the best surface for your acrylic paintings is crucial to achieve the desired results.
Consider your artistic preferences, painting style, and intended application when choosing a surface. Experiment with different surfaces to discover the ones that resonate with your artistic vision.
Remember, the surface you paint on can greatly impact the final outcome, so choose wisely and unleash your creativity on the best surface for your acrylic paintings.
- What are your favorite surfaces for acrylic painting?
- Have you tried any unconventional surfaces or experimented with different techniques?
- What were your experiences, challenges, and favorite techniques?
Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!
