3 Simple Acrylic Painting Techniques Anyone Can Try!

1. Dry Brush Technique – Add Texture & Bold Strokes

This technique involves using a dry brush with very little paint to create textured, streaky effects. It’s perfect for adding rough textures, highlights, or expressive strokes.

How to Try It:

  • Dip your brush in paint, then wipe off most of it on a paper towel.
  • Lightly drag the brush across the acrylic paper pad for scratchy, textured effects.
  • Great for grass, fur, wood, and abstract backgrounds.

Handy Hint: Use a synthetic brush for the best results.

2. Layering - Build Up Depth & Colour

Unlike watercolours, acrylics allow you to paint in layers without blending too much. You can layer light colours over dark ones to create depth and dimension.

How to Try It:

  • Start with a darker base layer and let it dry.
  • Add lighter colours on top, using soft strokes to build depth.
  • Perfect for landscapes, abstract art, and detailed objects.

Handy hint: Let each layer dry before adding the next to avoid muddy colours.

3. Blending - Create Smooth ColourTransitions

Blending helps achieve soft gradients and realistic shading in your paintings.

Acrylics dry quickly, so working fast is key!

How to Try It: Apply two colours side by side while the paint is still wet. Use a clean, damp brush to gently blend the edges where the colours meet. Ideal for sunsets, skies, and smooth skin tones.

Handy Hint: Use a soft, round brush for smoother blending.

These simple acrylic techniques are easy to learn and fun to experiment with.

Whether you’re painting abstract designs, landscapes, or textured artwork, practicing techniques will help you gain confidence and improve your skills and enjoy acrylic painting more.

Grab your paints and start exploring today!