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How to Create a Painting by Pouring Paints

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Pouring painting

Pouring painting

Photo © Edna (Fletchermoss269)
Pouring paint directly onto a canvas, and then tilting the canvas to move the paint around, is a technique that blends the colors together beautifully. Even when dry the the paint appears to flow and mix itself over the canvas.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: Variable

Here's How:

  1. I have a formula for mixing the paint so it will pour properly. 50% acrylic paint mixed with 20% Crystal Clear (a water-based clear varnish from the paint shop), and 30% water.
  2. Mix the shades of color you are going to use in individual glass jars with lids. Don't forget white! It's very important as you use a fair bit of white for shading.
  3. For the painting shown in the photo, I poured the sky first, dropping in white to create the clouds. Tilt the canvas from side to side till you get the look you want.
  4. Continue pouring the different colors till you achieve the look you want. This kind of painting is time consuming but you can get some wonderful results.
  5. Remember that after the paint dries, you can pour over places you are not happy with.

What You Need

  • Acrylic paint
  • Clear water-soluble varnish (glazing medium could also be used)
  • Water
  • Canvas

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