Paint
Welcome back to our DIY Art Supplies Series. In Part 1, we discussed how to make DIY painting sticks, whipping up everything from oil painting sticks, oil pastels to watercolour sticks and soft pastels. (If you missed it, check it out here!) Now, in Part 2, we’re shifting gears to the magic of making you own DIY paint.
Imagine creating your own acrylics, oils, tempera, gouache, and even watercolours—custom colours, perfect consistency, and all tailored to your artistic style. No more settling for store-bought shades or running out of your favourite colour mid-project. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can make paints that are as unique as you are.
So, grab your apron, clear your workspace, and let’s get mixing!
What is Oil Paint? – Rich, Buttery, and Timeless!
Imagine spreading butter on toast, but instead, you’re gliding it across a canvas to create rich, textured strokes of colour. That’s the magic of oil paint! Made from pigments suspended in linseed oil, oil paints are known for their slow drying time, creamy texture, and ability to blend seamlessly.
Artists love oil paints for their rich colours, buttery feel, and timeless finish. Whether you’re creating bold, expressive strokes or soft, dreamy transitions, oil paints bring a luxurious depth to your artwork. Plus, they’re perfect for layering and creating textures that last for centuries.
What is Acrylic Paint? – Bold, Fast, and Versatile!
If oil paint is the slow, luxurious cousin, acryrylic paint is the bold, fast-paced sibling. Made from pigments suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion, these paints dry quickly, are water-soluble, and can be used on almost any surface.
Acrylics are perfect for artists who love vibrant colours, quick results, and versatility. You can use them straight from the tube for bold, opaque strokes or thin them with water for a watercolor-like effect. Plus, they’re great for mixed media projects, making them a favourite for modern artists.
What is Tempera Paint? – Classic, Kid-Friendly, and Fun!
Tempera paint is the OG of paints—used by artists for centuries and loved by kids and beginners today. Made from pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder (like egg yolk or glue), tempera is easy to use, dries quickly, and washes off easily.
Artists love tempera for its bright colours, matte finish, and kid-friendly formula. It’s perfect for school projects, posters, and anyone who wants to experiment with paint without the mess. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce beginners to the world of art!
What is Watercolor? – Soft, Dreamy, and Portable!
Imagine painting with pure, translucent colour that flows across the paper like a dream. That’s the magic of watercolour! Made from pigments suspended in a gum arabic binder, watercolours are known for their soft, dreamy washes and delicate transparency.
Artists love watercolours for their portability, blendability, and ethereal finish. Whether you’re creating soft, atmospheric landscapes or bold, expressive sketches, watercolors bring a unique lightness to your artwork. Plus, they’re perfect for on-the-go painting!
Oil Paint vs. Acrylic vs. Tempera vs. Watercolour: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose the right paint for your next project:
| Feature | Oil Paint | Acrylic Paint | Tempera | Watercolour |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texture | Buttery, smooth, and slow-drying | Smooth, fast-drying, and versatile | Matte, easy to use, and kid-friendly | Translucent, soft, and dreamy |
| Drying Time | Slow (days to weeks) | Fast (minutes to hours) | Fast (minutes) | Fast (reactivates with water) |
| Blendability | Excellent for soft transitions | Good, but dries quickly | Limited, best for flat colors | Excellent for soft washes and gradients |
| Portability | Less portable (requires solvents) | Highly portable (water-soluble) | Highly portable (water-soluble) | Highly portable (just add water!) |
| Best For | Rich, textured, and timeless artwork | Bold, vibrant, and modern projects | Kids, beginners, and school projects | Soft, atmospheric, and portable art |
| Finish | Glossy and luxurious | Matte to glossy (depending on medium) | Matte and flat | Translucent and delicate |
Why Make Your Own Paints?
Creating your own paints isn’t just about saving money—it’s about taking control of your creative process. When you make your own, you can:
- Customize Colours: Create the exact shades you need for your artwork.
- Adjust Texture: Make your paints thicker, thinner, or more blendable to suit your style.
- Experiment: Add unique ingredients like mica powders for shimmer or essential oils for scent.
- Reduce Waste: Use eco-friendly materials and avoid unnecessary packaging.
Ready to Paint?
Whether you’re drawn to the buttery texture of oil paints, the bold versatility of acrylics, the kid-friendly fun of tempera, or the dreamy softness of watercolours, there’s a DIY paint recipe for you. So, grab your ingredients, head to Deckle Edge for anything you might need, and start creating your own liquid magic today!
Why Make Your Own Paints?
- Custom Colours: Create any shade you can imagine, from soft pastels to bold, vibrant hues.
- Cost-Effective: Save money by making your own paints instead of buying expensive tubes.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduce waste by reusing containers and controlling the ingredients.
- Satisfaction: There’s nothing quite like painting with colors you made yourself!
1. DIY Acrylic Paint – Bold, Vibrant, and Fast-Drying
Acrylic paints are a staple for many artists, and making your own is easier than you think!
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp acrylic polymer emulsion (the binder)
- 4 tbsp powdered pigment (choose your colors!)
- 1-2 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
Instructions:
- Mix the Binder and Pigment: In a bowl, combine the acrylic polymer emulsion and powdered pigment. Stir until smooth.
- Adjust Consistency: Add water as needed to achieve your desired thickness.
- Store and Paint: Transfer the paint to small jars or tubes, and you’re ready to create!
Pro Tip: Add a drop of glycerin to keep the paint from drying out too quickly.
2. DIY Oil Paint – Rich, Buttery, and Timeless
Oil paints are known for their rich, buttery texture and slow drying time, making them perfect for blending and layering.
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp linseed oil (the binder)
- 4 tbsp powdered pigment (choose your colours!)
- A glass muller or palette knife (for mixing)
Instructions:
- Mix the Oil and Pigment: Combine linseed oil and powdered pigment in a glass jar.
- Mull the Mixture: Use a glass muller or palette knife to grind the mixture until it’s smooth and buttery.
- Store and Paint: Transfer the paint to small jars or tubes, and you’re ready to go!
Pro Tip: Add a drop of clove oil to prevent the paint from drying out too quickly.
3. DIY Tempera Paint – Perfect for Kids and Beginners
Tempera paint is a classic choice for kids and beginners, and it’s super easy to make at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp egg yolk (the binder)
- 4 tbsp powdered pigment (choose your colors!)
- 1-2 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
Instructions:
- Mix the Egg Yolk and Pigment: In a bowl, combine the egg yolk and powdered pigment. Stir until smooth.
- Adjust Consistency: Add water as needed to achieve your desired thickness.
- Store and Paint: Transfer the paint to small jars, and you’re ready to create!
Pro Tip: Use this paint immediately or store it in the fridge for up to a week.
4. DIY Gouache – Opaque and Versatile
Gouache is like watercolour’s bolder, more opaque cousin, and it’s perfect for creating vibrant, flat colors.
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp gum arabic solution (the binder)
- 4 tbsp powdered pigment (choose your colors!)
- 1-2 tbsp white chalk or calcium carbonate (for opacity)
Instructions:
- Mix the Binder and Pigment: In a bowl, combine the gum arabic solution and powdered pigment. Stir until smooth.
- Add Chalk: Mix in the white chalk or calcium carbonate to create an opaque finish.
- Store and Paint: Transfer the paint to small jars, and you’re ready to go!
Pro Tip: Add a drop of honey to keep the paint from drying out too quickly.
5. DIY Watercolour Paint – Soft, Dreamy, and Portable
Watercolours are perfect for creating soft, dreamy washes of color, and making your own is a breeze.
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp gum arabic powder (the binder)
- 2 tbsp honey (to keep the paint workable)
- 2 tbsp water
- 4 tbsp powdered pigment (choose your colors!)
Instructions:
- Mix the Binder: Dissolve gum arabic powder in water, then add honey. Stir until smooth.
- Add Pigment: Divide the mixture into small containers and mix in the powdered pigment.
- Dry and Use: Let the mixture dry completely, then activate with water to paint!
Pro Tip: Experiment with different pigments to create custom shades.
Why DIY Paints Are a Game-Changer
Creating your own paints isn’t just about saving money—it’s about connecting with your art on a deeper level. When you make your own supplies, you’re in control of every detail, from the colors to the texture. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about painting with materials you’ve crafted yourself.
What’s Next? Part 3: Gesso and Paint Preparations!
In Part 3, we’ll dive into the world of gesso and paint preparations! Discover how to make your own classic gesso, coloured grounds, and primers that will give your canvas the perfect foundation for your artwork. Whether you’re prepping for a bold acrylic painting or a delicate watercolor piece, these DIY recipes will set the stage for your masterpiece.