I’ve discovered through the years as an artist that acrylic paints require the addition of a thinner. A medium thinner not only improves the quality of the paint you produce, but it also reduces waste, which helps you save money.
A professional medium works Best Acrylic Paint Thinners, however some merely need a little water.
Following extensive testing on a variety of materials, from glass to cloth, we discovered the following goods to be your best bets for your upcoming masterpiece.
| Image | Product Name | Editor's Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Best Acrylic Paint Thinner For Fabrics | Check Price | |
 | Best Acrylic Binder | Check Price | |
 | Best Odorless Paint Thinner | Check Price |
1. Best Acrylic Paint Thinner For Fabrics
I adore t-shirts that have been painted with acrylic. Amazing detail and beauty may be captured on a surface of that kind.
I bought a few different mediums, some 100% cotton shirts, and some brushes after doing some study. I sat down with a mental image in mind.
First and first, it is essential to practice painting on a practice surface because various textiles might react differently. Additionally, it is wise to use gloves if handling chemicals as a general rule.
I’ve finally discovered the ideal paint thinner for this project: Liquitex Professional Fluid Medium. Other considerations for painting the t-shirts included durability and flexibility
The bottle size for this medium ranges from 4 oz to 16 oz. Liquitex mixes well with vibrant colors since it dries to a non-yellowing gloss.
The adaptability of this device is what makes it superior. The others, I discovered, had turned flaky. I could see the finer intricacies and colors with Liquitex while still feeling smooth on my skin, which made it more pleasant to wear.
Since it is non-toxic, this product may be used by artists of any skill level, including kids. My paintings’ lifespan was extended, and it resulted in a work of art. Best Kiss Acrylic Nail Kits – Top 5 picks & Reviews In 2023
Product Features
- clear Dries
- increases the dry time by 40%
- On fabric, lightweight and flexible
Things We Dislike
- It doesn’t dry stiff.
- dried and made the colors more vivid.
- Great for artists of any skill level!
Things We Dislike
- Not every project benefits from longer drying times.
- must wash the clothes by hand
- a little pricey for a beginner painter
2. Best Acrylic Binder
While mediums are a terrific way to extend the life of the paint, a binder goes even farther. The colors look sharper and more exact, and the varnish dries to be smooth. A basic brilliant finish can also be achieved by mixing a binder with merely water.
This product is offered in 100 ml to 1 liter-sized bottles. Additionally, it dries bright and clear, which is good for painting on dark surfaces. Other media, such as additional water or glue, were compatible with the PEBEO binder as well.
On a painting of space where I wanted the bright colors to pop out on a black canvas, I utilized the binder. When the lights were off, the colors shone through and created a nocturnal scene in addition to drying to a stronger tone.
This binder was the greatest option for this project overall. It didn’t take much of the substance, and I could use it as varnish to complete the painting. This binder is for skilled painters only because it is a chemical and needs specific ratios to function.
Key Elements
- is both a varnish and a media in one
- dries bright and clear
- fits most paint manufacturers
What We Enjoy
- This binder truly makes the bright colors pop.
- Additionally compatible with acrylic powders
- effective as a varnish
Things We Dislike
- This one is designed to be used outside or in a well-ventilated space with a mask.
- A little too pricey for acrylic fluid art as a medium
- Not suited for families
3. Best Odorless Paint Thinner
Strong chemical odors are one of the worst things for your creative flow. Fortunately, odorless products are becoming increasingly popular among businesses nowadays.
I put many products that make the claim to be odorless through a blind test with and without acrylic paint added.
Only one product ultimately prevailed: Mona Lisa Odorless Paint Thinner.
The bottle for this product holds 32 ounces. Since just a tiny amount is necessary for it to function correctly, one bottle can last for several sessions.
This thinner has no discernible smell. The addition of the acrylic paint barely affected the fragrance. Any odor vanished after it was dried. The paint came off easily after using this thinner to clean the brushes.
Final thoughts: Only an adult should handle this product, as with other thinners. In this instance, the Mona Lisa works well with most paints, including oil, and is best suited for experienced artists. Best Flat Brushes for Acrylic Painting – Top 5 Picks for 2023
Key Elements
- virtually no odor
- equivalent to turpentine
- Product usage every painting session is reduced.
What We Enjoy
- Although still combustible, this may be used safely inside.
- affordable given the quantity in each bottle
- No odors that lingered!
Things We Dislike
- It will not blend well if not shook before use.
- pet or child inhospitable. Be required to be covered and set on a high shelf.
- Only one size is offered.
How To Thin Acrylic Paint
The figures might be all over the place when attempting to determine the ratios of paint and additional thinner. Most projects perform well with a thinned-out version of the paint, however some benefit from thicker paint.
I generally follow these two general guidelines when thinning out paint for a project:
- To reach the proper consistency, add a little thinner at first, mix, and then add more.
- After that, wait 20 minutes or more before applying the paint mixture. As a result, the two bases can combine effectively.
Whether you’re using water, medium, or binder to thin the paint, we’ll talk about the ideal ratios in this part for your painting.
Water Diluting Acrylic Paint
When diluting paint to the proper consistency, water is often the most important ingredient for painters. It is advisable to use purified water when mixing acrylic paint with water. The secret to an excellent blend is consistent products.
Water quality fluctuates from city to city, but paints stay the same quality. There are still some states that have not embraced this approach, despite the fact that the majority of metropolitan towns have added fluoride and chlorine to their municipal water systems.
Acrylic paint can be applied rather thinly and yet perform admirably. 70:30 is the ideal water-to-paint ratio, according to several testing.
You want something that is stable enough to hold melting ice cream. If the paint travels sluggishly while being titled, add a little extra water.
Large landscape portraits and acrylic pour paintings respond well to the water technique.
Acrylic Paint Diluting With Medium
Medium is a crucial tool for experienced painters. Start with a modest quantity because the consistency of each media varies.
I got started with a 1:1 ratio using Liquitex medium as my basis. Consequently, the paint and the first amount of medium were blended.
I kept adding extra medium and stirred in between.
Typically, a 3:1 medium to paint ratio is the optimum. A little thicker than the water base, the consistency has the appearance of molten caramel.
The majority of materials, including a t-shirt, and detailed portraits on canvas perform well with this combination.
Acrylic Binder Used To Thin Acrylic Paint
It differs somewhat from using a Medium to thin acrylic paint when using a binder.
In general, a binder contains the same ingredients as an acrylic paint but lacks color. With a polished sheen, this ingredient slows down the drying process.
Even while some say a 1:1 ratio is ideal, I discovered that using less was better.
The majority of common acrylic paint bottles sold now weigh 2 oz. I decided on a 2oz paint to 1/4 teaspoon binder ratio for the greatest consistency. Naturally, I also advise using PEBEO Bindex Acrylic Binder.
Now is the moment to add the water while the mixture is still pretty thick. a little at a time.
Keep the consistency similar to caramel if you want to make a painting that is really detailed. Imagine a look that is abstract. Consider ice cream.
Paint thinner vs. mineral spirits
Paint thinner is a medium that is well known to most painters. It helps us clean our paintbrushes. The smell alone dispels any doubt.
Thank goodness mineral spirits, sometimes known as “white spirits,” appeared.
Therefore, if they both clean paint brushes, what makes them different?
While mineral spirits refers to a particular type of thinner, paint thinner is a generic phrase for all cleansers.
However, mineral spirits and paint thinners are often used interchangeably in everyday speech. The fundamental components in both are the same, however mineral spirits are less strongly flavored.
Follow these guidelines while trying to select the finest mineral spirit:
Turpentine alternatives: Many businesses label their products with this information. Be cautious when choosing because some products leave an oily residue on your brush or have negative effects on the paint.
Solvent made by Stoddard: This is the clear winner. In actuality, this solvent was uncovered in 1924 by two expert dry cleaners. They found the Stoddard solvent after continually being unwell from the fumes when cleaning the garments. Due to its capacity to clean and minimal odor, it was widely utilized in the majority of dry cleaners until the 1950s.
Although more costly, mineral spirits can be used inside. Though they are still combustible, it is advisable to keep them out of little children’s reach.
Acrylic Paint Thinner FAQs
Which acrylic paint thinner is the best?
Whether you require a binder, a textile medium for fabric, or only water to thin out the paint will determine the best acrylic paint thinner.
How is acrylic paint thinned?
You’ll get a variety of distilled water, mediums, and binders, depending on the paint thinner.
How is acrylic paint thinner made?
Use paint together with a binder, medium, or water mixture. Mix until the mixture resembles ice cream or caramel.
How can I get acrylic paint off my walls?
When using paints, it’s usually a good idea to keep a wipe rag close at hand. It is simpler to clean when the paint is still wet. Use a delicate brush and some soapy water when it has dried. Clear it off.
Does paint thinner pose a risk?
When used improperly, paint thinner is harmful. They are poisonous and frequently combustible. Keep them sealed, cool, and out of children’s reach.
Rubus alcohol may be used to thin acrylic paint.
Rubbing alcohol is a fantastic backup if you’re in a bind. Only acrylic paints, without any additions, perform best.
Can acrylic paint be thinned with Windex?
You’ll get a slimy mess if you use Windex as paint thinner!
Can I thin paint using a brush cleaner?
Brush cleaning can be used as a thinner with acrylic paint, however this is not recommended. Usually a 50/50 blend.