7 Acrylic Painting Techniques Every Artist Should Know (And Why Versatility Matters) / Blog

Acrylic paint is one of the most versatile and beginner-friendly mediums out there. Whether you're creating bold abstract art or fine detailed realism, acrylics offer an incredible range of techniques to suit your style.

In this guide, we’ll explore 7 key acrylic painting techniques that every artist should know — and why developing versatility can take your art to the next level.

1. 🖌️ Dry Brushing

📸 Close-up photo of dry brush strokes on canvas, showing textured effects.

Dry brushing uses a small amount of paint on a dry brush to create textured, scratchy strokes. It’s ideal for adding highlights, wood textures, or aged effects.

Best for: landscapes, texture overlays, aged or vintage effects
Recommended Tools: flat/stiff brushes, fan brushes

✅ Tip: Use light, sweeping strokes for the best effect.

2. ✨ Glazing

📸 Side-by-side comparison of a painting before and after glazing layers.

Glazing adds thin, transparent layers of color over dried acrylic to build depth and luminosity. Great for enhancing shadows, glowing skin tones, or building atmospheric depth.

Best for: portraits, realism, subtle light effects
Supplies to try: glazing medium + soft round brushes

✅ Pro tip: Let each layer dry fully before adding the next.

3. 🌊 Acrylic Pouring

📸 Macro image of a poured canvas with cells and marbling.

Acrylic pouring creates stunning abstract pieces using fluid paint and a pouring medium. It’s a fun, no-brush technique that allows you to play with color flow and organic shapes.

Best for: abstract art, color experiments, meditative painting
Supplies to try: pouring medium, plastic cups, torch

✅ Bonus: Try a "dirty pour" for vibrant marbled layers.

4. 🖼️ Impasto

📸 Close-up of thick paint strokes on canvas with palette knife texture.

Impasto involves applying thick layers of acrylic to add sculptural texture and dynamic movement. Use a palette knife or heavy body acrylics for best results.

Best for: expressive art, texture-rich landscapes, bold color work
Tools to use: palette knives, heavy body acrylics, texture gels

✅ Highlight impasto with directional lighting to emphasize texture.

5. ☁️ Acrylic Washes

📸 Soft pastel wash background fading from blue to pink.

By diluting acrylic with water or fluid medium, you can achieve light, translucent washes similar to watercolor. Ideal for backgrounds or soft blending.

Best for: skies, watercolor-style work, underpaintings
Supplies to try: water sprayer, soft mop brushes

✅ Use layers to build up soft tones gradually.

6. 🎯 Splattering and Stippling

📸 Close-up of splattered paint canvas and a stippled animal illustration.

For dynamic, energetic art, splattering and stippling add movement and interest. Use brushes or even a toothbrush for different effects.

Best for: abstract expression, dynamic textures, detail shading
Tools to use: stiff brushes, old toothbrush, sponges

✅ Try masking areas for controlled splatter patterns.

7. 🧵 Mixed Media with Acrylics

📸 Collage-style mixed media canvas using paper, acrylics, and ink.

Acrylics work well with almost anything — pastels, collage, ink, fabric, even modeling paste. Mix and match to build unique, layered compositions.

Best for: journal pages, textured artwork, experimental styles
Supplies to try: gel medium, paper scraps, ink pens

✅ Seal each layer to avoid smudging or bleeding.

🌟 Why Versatility in Acrylic Painting Is Essential

📸 Image idea: Artist's desk with multiple works in different styles side by side.

Being a versatile painter isn’t just practical — it’s empowering. Here’s why it matters:

🎯 Creative Freedom: Mastering multiple techniques expands your expressive range.
🧠 Problem Solving: Tackle different subjects and surfaces with confidence.
🖋️ Discover Your Style: Mixing techniques helps refine your unique artistic voice.
🔁 Adaptability: Be ready for any medium, commission, or creative challenge.