Pour Painting: Unveiling the Best Pouring Mediums
“What’s the scoop on the best pouring medium for acrylic paint pouring? Oh boy, this question is a tough nut to crack for any artist.
Let me break it down for you.
First off, the pouring medium that suits you best depends on what kind of results you’re after. And with a plethora of acrylic pouring techniques out there, finding one-size-fits-all is like finding a needle in a haystack!
Some mediums will give you those coveted cells (without silicone), while others won’t even budge.
Some runny ones work like a charm for swipes, while the thicker ones are ace for ring pours.
So yeah, there is no one-size-fits-all solution here.
Plus, what’s available and affordable in your neck of the woods plays a big role too. Some mediums might be scarce as hen’s teeth or just way too pricey for your pocket. Gotta make do with what you’ve got, right?
Ready-made acrylic pouring mediums
Floetrol
Affordable, easy to use, and available in bulk—perfect for rookies and pros alike.
Vivid PolyPour
Thick as molasses, perfect for nailing that bloom technique.
Liquitex Professional
Top-notch all-rounder medium for pros looking for flawless finishes.
Golden GAC800
Custom-made for high paint ratios, ideal for pros aiming for minimal cracking.
Now you see why this question makes me go “aaaargh”!
But fear not; I’ve got some options lined up based on what you’re aiming for (cells or no cells) and the technique you’re vibing with.
I’ll dish out all the details—cost, finish, availability—so you can make an informed choice. And hey, I’ve snagged some killer pouring medium recipes from my fave artists like Rinske Douna, Molly’s Artistry, and more.
Let’s dive in!
Floetrol Pouring Medium
Okay, so Floetrol’s not technically a pouring medium (it’s a paint conditioner), but it does the job darn well. This bad boy is your ticket to Cell City.
Just add a splash of water to thin it out—go for a mix of 91% Floetrol and 9% water (don’t overdo it, or your paints will crack).
Affordability
For the budget-conscious, Floetrol is your jam. Hit up your local hardware store (Home Depot or Ace Hardware in the US) for a steal.
Results
Depending on where you’re at, the Floetrol ingredients might vary, affecting your cell game. English Floetrol? Meh cells. American? Bit better. Aussie? Boom—loads of cells and lacing.
Finish
Floetrol leaves your paints with a matte finish. Slap on some satin or glossy varnish for that extra oomph.
Where to Find
Stateside, snag the American version on Amazon, Home Depot, or Ace Hardware.
Glue and Water: Homemade Pouring Medium
This DIY mix is a hit for a reason—it’s cheap as chips and easy to whip up.
Affordability
Cheap as chips, my friend. Just grab some Elmer’s glue and water, and you’re good to go.
Results
You’ll get some cells, though they might be on the smaller side. Perfect for newbies dipping their toes into the pouring game.
Finish
Depending on your glue, you’ll get a satin finish. Seal the deal with a varnish to keep your masterpiece looking fresh.
Where to Find
Elmer’s glue is everywhere—Walmart, Amazon, Michael’s, you name it.
Paint and Water for Dutch Pours
Yep, you can skip the pouring medium altogether and just use water with your paints. Just make sure they’re top-notch to avoid any cracking.
Affordability
Slightly pricier, as you’ll need high-quality paints to avoid the dreaded cracks.
Results
Even sans Floetrol or silicone, you’ll still get some stunning cells and lacing thanks to the magic of blow drying.
Finish
Your colors will pop, and the designs? A feast for the eyes. Finish it off with a varnish for that added shine.
Where to Find
Amazon and Blick Art Materials stock top-tier paints like Amsterdam.
Homemade Pouring Medium Recipe for Ring Pours and Dirty Cups
Got a bit more time and dough to spare? This recipe’s got your back.
Affordability
A tad pricier, but worth it for those flawless ring pours and dirty flip cups.
Results
No cracking or crazing here, thanks to the top-notch pouring mediums. And yep, you’ll get some cells too, courtesy of the floetrol.
Finish
Floetrol might leave things looking matte, but the gloss medium and GAC 800 will restore that glossy goodness.
Where to Find
Hit up Home Depot, Ace Hardware, or Amazon for Floetrol, and Amazon for the gloss medium and varnish.
Easy Recipe for Colander Pours
Keep it simple with this colander-friendly recipe—just Floetrol, gloss medium, and varnish.
Affordability
Slightly pricier than pure Floetrol, but worth it for those mesmerizing colander pours.
Results
Expect smooth flows and a few surprise cells, courtesy of the trusty Floetrol.
Finish
Glossy as can be, thanks to the gloss medium and varnish. Seal the deal with a varnish for added protection.
Where to Find
Same drill—Home Depot, Ace Hardware, or Amazon for Floetrol, and Amazon for the gloss medium and varnish.
Best Pouring Medium for Cells with Silicone
Want those cells to pop? Look no further than this recipe.
Affordability
Budget-friendly, with Floetrol and Elmer’s glue taking center stage.
Pebeo, Mixed Pouring, 47 Piece Set, 47 Pieces kit 4 Count