What is Acrylic Tempera?
Acrylic tempera paint is a water-based medium that combines the properties of traditional tempera and acrylic paints. It is made by mixing pigments with a synthetic acrylic binder, creating a unique paint that offers the best of both worlds. The result is a quick-drying, opaque paint that can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including canvas, paper, wood, and more.
What Supplies Do You Need?
Before you begin painting with acrylic tempera, you will need a few essential supplies:
- Acrylic Tempera Paints: Choose a set of acrylic tempera paints that offer a wide range of colors.
- Paintbrushes: Invest in a set of good quality paintbrushes with different sizes and shapes to ensure versatility.
- Palette: A palette will help you mix and blend colors. You can use a traditional palette or opt for a disposable palette pad.
- Surface: Decide what surface you want to paint on, such as canvas, watercolor paper, or wood.
- Water and Rag: Keep a container of water and a rag nearby for cleaning brushes.
- Palette Knife (optional): A palette knife can be handy for mixing colors and creating texture.
How to Start Painting
Now that you have your supplies ready, it’s time to start painting! Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Prepare your surface: If you are using canvas, make sure it is properly primed. If you are using paper, tape it down to prevent it from wrinkling.
- Squeeze out the paint: Squeeze out the colors you need on your palette. Start with the primary colors (red, blue, and yellow) and mix them to create secondary colors.
- Experiment with brushes: Use different brushes to explore various techniques. Flat brushes are great for large areas, while round brushes are perfect for details.
- Layer the paint: Acrylic tempera dries quickly, so it’s important to work in layers. Start with a thin underpainting and gradually build up the layers for more depth and texture.
- Blend and mix: Acrylic tempera allows for easy blending and mixing. Use a clean brush or a palette knife to blend colors together and create smooth transitions.
- Have fun and experiment: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and try new techniques. Acrylic tempera is forgiving and allows for easy corrections.
Clean-up and Tips
When you are done painting, it’s important to clean up your supplies properly. Rinse your brushes in water until the water runs clear and squeeze out excess water. You can wipe your palette clean with a rag and let it air dry.
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind while using acrylic tempera:
- Store your paints properly: Make sure to close the paint tubes tightly after each use and store them in a cool, dry place.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Acrylic tempera paints can emit fumes, so it’s best to work in a well-ventilated space or use a mask if necessary.
- Experiment with different techniques: Acrylic tempera can be used in various ways, such as layering, glazing, or even adding texture with impasto techniques. Explore and find what works best for you!
Now that you have a beginner’s guide to using acrylic tempera, it’s time to unleash your creativity and start painting! With practice and experimentation, you will discover the endless possibilities this versatile medium offers. Remember, painting is all about enjoying the journey, so have fun and let your imagination soar.