Thinning:
Water isn't the only option!

What is Thinning?

Thinning paint involves reducing its viscosity (liquid’s thickness and flow) to achieve specific effects and ease of application, or thinning or reducing a colours intensity and opacity might also be desired.

This is typically done using water however there are specialised mediums designed for this purpose.

Matisse Mediums

MM3 Surface Tension Breaker

MM8 Spreader Medium

MM9 Acrylic Painting Medium

About Thinning

Thinning paint enables smoother brush strokes, easier blending, and a range of artistic techniques, such as glazing and adding washes. By adjusting the thickness of the paint, different effects and textures can be created. This guide will explore various methods and mediums used for thinning acrylic paint’s viscosity and intensity.

Thinning paint offers several benefits and purposes in painting:

Improved Flow and Application : Thinning paint reduces its viscosity, making it easier to apply smoothly and evenly. This helps in achieving a more fluid application and can prevent brush strokes and other unwanted textures.
Enhanced Blending : Thinned paint facilitates better blending and layering, allowing colours to merge seamlessly. This is especially useful for techniques like glazing and washes, where gradual transitions and transparent layers are desired.
Increased Transparency : By thinning paint, you can achieve various levels of transparency, which is essential for techniques like glazing. This allows for subtle colour shifts and the creation of depth and luminosity in your artwork.
Detailed Work : Thinning paint can help in reaching finer details and intricate areas. It makes it easier to control the paint's consistency, which is particularly useful for detailed or delicate work.
Experimentation with Effects : Different thinning techniques can produce a range of effects, such as softer edges, textures, and various finishes. This provides flexibility in exploring different artistic styles and methods.
Reduction of Paint Consumption : Thinning paint can help extend the use of your paint, as it allows you to cover larger areas with a smaller amount of paint.

Overall, thinning paint is a versatile technique that enhances the painter's control and the visual outcomes of their work
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Derivan, makers of ‘Matisse’, are the world's best producers of quality thinning mediums. All acrylic paint thinning can be calculated perfectly with Matisse Mediums.