Daler-Rowney: Acrylic Paints

Acrylic paint is a fast-drying, water-based medium known for its versatility, durability, and vibrant color. Favored by professional artists, illustrators, and mixed media creators, acrylics adhere to many surfaces—from canvas and wood to fabric and paper. Unlike oil paints, acrylics dry quickly and can be modified with mediums to adjust texture, transparency, drying time, and finish. Many artists choose professional acrylic paint for higher pigment load, richer color, and superior lightfastness. Available in heavy body, fluid, and soft body formulas, acrylics support both fine detail work and expressive impasto techniques.

See Also Recommended: Acrylic gesso & primers, Acrylic paint markers, Acrylic mediums, Acrylic brushes, Stretched canvas

Jerry's is the Artists' Choice!

As a trusted source for over 50 years, artists choose Jerry's Artarama for better materials, great savings, curated products and expert service. Jerry's Artarama carries a large selection of artist acrylics on sale from leading brands such as SoHo, GOLDEN, Liquitex, Amsterdam, Old Holland, Schmincke, Winsor & Newton and more.

What Is the Best Acrylic Paint for Artists?

The best acrylic paint for artists depends on experience level, painting style, and desired texture. Professional acrylic paints such as GOLDEN, Liquitex Professional, and Old Holland offer the highest pigment load, superior lightfastness, and archival performance for finished artwork. Heavy body acrylics are ideal for expressive brushwork and impasto techniques, while fluid acrylics work well for glazing, detail work, and pouring. Beginners often start with student-grade acrylic paints, while professional painters typically choose artist-grade colors for richer pigments and long-lasting results.

New to acrylic painting? Read our guide All You Need To Know About Acrylic Paint to learn about acrylic paint types, mediums, and techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions About Acrylic Paint

How long does acrylic paint take to dry?

Acrylic paint typically dries to the touch in 10–30 minutes, while thicker layers may take several hours. Full curing can take up to 24 hours depending on paint thickness, surface type, humidity, and airflow. Thin layers on absorbent surfaces like canvas often dry within 15 minutes, while heavier applications may remain workable longer. For best results, wait 1–2 hours between layers and at least 24 hours before varnishing. To extend working time, artists can use an extender or acrylic retarder medium to increase the open time of artist paints and make blending easier.

What Is Acrylic Paint?

Acrylic paint is a fast-drying, water-based paint made from pigment suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion. It dries quickly, becomes water-resistant when dry, and can be used on surfaces like canvas, wood, paper, fabric, and many mixed-media supports.

Can you use acrylic paint on any surface?

Yes, acrylic paint works on canvas, paper, wood, fabric, metal, plastic, and more. For best results, prep non-porous surfaces with gesso or primer, and use textile medium on fabric to improve flexibility and durability. With proper surface prep, acrylics can adhere almost anywhere.

What’s the difference between heavy body and fluid acrylics?

The difference comes down to viscosity, application style, and texture control. Heavy body acrylics have a thick, buttery consistency—ideal for artists who want to build up bold textures with palette knives or keep visible brush strokes. They're perfect for techniques like impasto and expressive mark-making. Fluid acrylics, on the other hand, are smooth and pourable, designed for even coverage, fine detail, glazing, and dripping effects.

Is Acrylic Paint Water Based?

Yes, acrylic paint is water based and easier to wash out of brushes and most art materials. It contains color pigments suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion that acts as the binder. While still wet, acrylic paint can be thinned and cleaned with water, making it easy to work with. Once dry, acrylic paint forms a water-resistant, flexible film that is permanent and durable. It is always highly recommended to use better brushes for your art to ensure a better painting experience and help achieve the desired result.