If you’re an artist, you already know that you need various supplies such as canvases, paint, brushes, palettes, and easels. However, purchasing all these items can be challenging due to budget constraints. Many new artists opt for a paint kit because it’s a good and affordable way of having all the necessary materials. A starter paint set for beginner artists typically includes a dozen jars of paints, two to four small canvases, brushes, sticks, disposable straws, gloves, pouring cups, and more.
Acrylic Paint Set
For those who are new to the world of art and find themselves overwhelmed by the variety of paints and colors available, it’s best to consider investing in a starter paint kit. Even experienced artists often opt for these sets as they provide everything one needs in a convenient package. Moreover, they are a cost-effective option for those on a budget.
These art sets come complete with pre-mixed paints, varnish, accessories, and a helpful instruction booklet. They serve as an excellent introduction to the art world for both individuals and children. The only distinction between these paints and their professional counterparts is that the paints in the set have a lower pigment concentration, resulting in slightly less vibrant colors on the canvas.
Typically, a regular starter paint set includes tubes, jars, or bottles of acrylic paint, with a recommended size of 60ml, which is ideal for beginners. This size will last a considerable amount of time, especially if you are practicing on smaller canvases.
How Do Acrylic Paint Sets Work?
Acrylic paint sets are prepared by blending pigment particles with an acrylic polymer emulsion, resulting in a versatile medium suitable for application on a variety of surfaces. When acrylic paints are applied, the water content evaporates, leaving a thin film of acrylic polymer that securely binds the pigment to the surface. Once this polymer dries, it forms a resilient, waterproof, and pliable layer of paint that is resistant to water damage and fading.
A notable feature of acrylic paints is their quick drying time, enabling artists to work efficiently and layer colors without prolonged waiting periods. This rapid drying time also allows artists to experiment with different techniques like blending, layering, and glazing to achieve diverse textures and effects in their artwork. Moreover, acrylic paints can be diluted with water or mixed with various mediums to adjust their consistency and prolong their drying time, granting artists enhanced flexibility and command over their artistic process.
How to Choose Your Set
Acrylic Paint Quality
Before purchasing, it’s important to evaluate the quality of the acrylic paints included in the set. Look for paints that have a high concentration of pigment, as this ensures vibrant colors and excellent coverage. Additionally, check for lightfastness ratings to determine how well the paints will resist fading over time, especially if your artwork will be displayed in well-lit areas.
Color Range
Consider the range of colors offered in the acrylic paint set. Some sets provide a basic selection of primary colors, while others offer a wider spectrum of hues, including specialty colors and metallics. Decide whether you need a set with a comprehensive range of colors for versatility or a smaller selection for specific projects.
Consistency and Viscosity
Heavy body acrylics are thick and ideal for impasto techniques, while soft body acrylics offer smoother applications suitable for glazing and detailed work. Fluid acrylics have a thin consistency, allowing for smooth and flowing applications, as well as intricate detailing. Choose the consistency that best suits your preferred painting techniques and desired effects.
Choose a Paint Brush Set
Beginner artists may find it challenging to select the right paintbrushes. To make this easier, begin with a paintbrush set that includes essential brushes. This way, you can ensure that you have all the necessary tools without any confusion. Paintbrushes come in various shapes and bristles, each serving a different purpose. Some brushes are versatile and can be used in any situation, while others are designed for more intricate and detailed work.
Types of bristles and shapes include:
• Hog bristle brushes – known for their elasticity, stiffness, and ergonomic design, these brushes are ideal for oil painting due to their durability and stiffness.
• Sable bristle brushes – despite being named sable, these brushes are made from the tail of a species of mink found in North-Eastern China and Siberia. The fine bristles make them suitable for oil or acrylic painting. While these brushes are expensive, they may not be the best choice for beginners mainly because of their price.
• Synthetic brushes – commonly chosen by beginners for their affordability and versatility across all painting mediums, synthetic brushes are made of synthetic bristles rather than animal hair. These synthetic brushes may not last long and can lose their shape quickly.
Easel and Palette
The easel serves as a support for your canvas, allowing you to paint without worrying about keeping the canvas straight. There are various types of easels available, such as A-frame, H-frame, giant easel, convertible, single mast, and more. The palette is essential for mixing your paint and comes in different shapes, sizes, and materials like wood or plastic.
Canvas
Canvas is a popular painting surface. When purchasing your first canvas, ensure it is pre-primed for easy starting. Investing in a quality canvas is recommended over cheaper student canvases, as the difference in quality is noticeable. Stretched canvas panels offer a modern look with deep or thin edges, eliminating the need to paint the sides. Choosing the size of the canvas depends on your preferences; from small to medium to large sizes. For exhibitions, larger canvases are ideal, while smaller ones are more convenient for practice.
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