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acrylics and graininess

Apr 10, 2005

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    1. Hi guys,

      Spent the afternoon working on Caro's faceup (my first). I used Golden's medium-viscosity (liquid) acrylics and I noticed a certain graininess in the way the paint went down on the resin. I used Golden's Flow Release, which allowed me to manipulate the paint more like a watercolor wash, but I still noticed a certain chalkiness, which I don't see, generally, on the DOA dollies.

      Do you add anything to your colors to get a smoother lay-down? Is it more to do with how quickly you apply them after you have mixed them up?

      Thanks--tips appreciated.

      GJ
       
      #1 green_judy, Apr 10, 2005
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    2. First thing I would look for is whether or not you stirred the acrylics really well? The pigments can separate from the solvent over time.

      Second, speaking of time, how old are the acrylics? If you just bought them, can you find out how long they'd been at the store? If it's old it's possible that there are miniscule bits of dried paint in the bottle.

      If the flow release isn't working, you might try a retarder and see if you get different results.
       
      #2 Kiriko Moth, Apr 10, 2005
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    3. Well, I didn't stir them, didn't even shake 'em. I just used a few drops on my palette and mixed small amounts of color right on the palette.

      I got a set of 10 small bottles. (Very cute!) Not sure how long they were in the shop, good question. I will be heading back in and I'll ask and see what they say. I think I will get some flow retarder; I understand you can get some nice transparent effects with it.

      Thanks for your reply.

      GJ
       
      #3 green_judy, Apr 10, 2005
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    4. What the retarder actually does is slow the drying time and thin the paint.. The 'flow release' is probably an extender, but won't slow the drying as much.

      But yes, if you haven't mixed the paints, do that first. Stir them or roll them vigorously between your hands instead of shaking - shaking makes air bubbles. :wink:

      -Kiriko
       
      #4 Kiriko Moth, Apr 10, 2005
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