How do you thin acrylic paint?

Thin acrylic paint with clean water, added a drop or two at a time and mixed in thoroughly. The paint in our kits is ready to use, so only thin it if it has thickened in the pot or you need a more fluid consistency for fine detail.

1. Put a small amount of paint on your palette or into a mixing well.
2. Add one or two drops of water and mix with the brush until smooth.
3. Check the consistency: aim for creamy, not runny. If it drips, it is too thin; if it drags, add another drop.
4. Test on a discreet corner of the canvas or on white paper before applying it for good, as acrylic paint lightens slightly as it dries.

Keep water below about one third of the mix. Beyond that the paint covers less well and can flake once dry. For small details, slightly more thinning helps a fine brush flow; for large areas, keep the paint thicker for better coverage. If you want to thin paint without lightening the colour, an acrylic medium works well, particularly for large areas.