Acrylic painting lends itself to many abstract techniques.
Acrylics are a good starting point for a painter, but they also lend themselves to a welter of sophisticated techniques that painting professionals employ. They have strong covering power and brilliant hues. In addition, they can be applied many ways, and with the introduction of compatible materials, even more results are possible.
Opaque Painting
Acrylics have enough pigment to create rich, solid areas of color. Mix the paint with a small amount of medium -- matte or gel -- and apply the mixture in even strokes. Use a flat brush with a rectangular tip for large areas. Round brushes, which come to a point, create lines or points best.
Washes
Thin acrylic paint with water for a thinner mixture. These mixtures approximate watercolor. Stir the paint well, but don't overmix. This can cause frothing. Once you have an even, translucent mix, apply the wash with a wide brush. You may want to lay your surface flat to eliminate drips, or leave it upright for a watery, flowing effect.
Textures
Add household materials to acrylic paint to create areas of diverse texture. Salt or sand can be added to make a gritty paint that looks earthy. Apply the paint mixture using a palette knife or other flat tool. You can also run the brush through the textured paint to smooth the top surface or make furrows.
Sculptural Uses
Sculptural effects are ideal with acrylic paint due to the paint's quicker drying time. Oil paint in thick application can take months to dry. Use the acrylic paint right from the tube, manipulating it with the palette knife, plastic forks or other utensils for low-relief effects. Add modeling paste or other thickeners, and you can make sculptured effects over an inch in height, with ease.
