If you're feeling inspired to try painting, acrylics are a brilliant place to begin. They’re bold, fast drying and incredibly versatile. Whether you're experimenting for the first time or looking for a fun creative outlet, acrylic painting offers satisfying results with just a few materials.
At ArtStore Online we believe starting with the right tools helps build your confidence. This guide will walk you through everything you need to begin, including paints, brushes, surfaces and a few extras that make the process smoother.
Acrylic paints are water based and easy to work with. They dry quickly, layer beautifully and can be used on a wide range of surfaces from paper and canvas to wood and fabric. They’re also more forgiving than oils and less delicate than watercolours which makes them perfect for beginners.
Because acrylics are so adaptable, you can paint with thick brush strokes for texture, use washes for softness or mix them with mediums for unique effects. Cleaning up is simple: just water and a cloth will do. No harsh chemicals or complex prep needed.
Whether you’re aiming to paint landscapes, abstracts or just want to dabble with colour, acrylics give you room to explore.
To start acrylic painting, you’ll want a few basic materials that set you up for success.
You don’t need every colour under the sun. A good acrylic paint set with primary colours, black and white is enough to mix a full spectrum. Look for reputable brands like Golden or Winsor & Newton. They offer beginner friendly sets with vibrant pigments and smooth consistency.
The best brushes for acrylics are firm enough to move thicker paint but still flexible. Synthetic brushes are ideal as they hold their shape and are easy to clean. Start with a few different shapes: a flat brush for bold strokes, a round brush for detail and a filbert for softer edges. Explore our brushes collection to find sets suited to all techniques.
You’ll need something to paint on. Acrylics work well on canvas, canvas boards or acrylic paper. These surfaces absorb paint evenly and won’t buckle or warp under layers. Start with small sizes until you get the feel for it. Browse our surfaces category to choose what works best for your setup.
Having the right surface is just as important as the paint itself. It affects how colours blend and how easily the brush moves.
Once you’ve got the basics, a few extras can make your painting experience even more enjoyable.
Acrylics dry fast, so you’ll want a palette that’s easy to clean or designed to keep paint workable longer. Plastic palettes are lightweight and great for beginners. You’ll find a variety of palette styles for all kinds of artists on our website.
Acrylic mediums allow you to change how your paint behaves. You can extend drying time, create gloss or matte finishes or make the paint more fluid. These are useful once you’re ready to experiment.
Have water jars, paper towels and a rag handy. Acrylic paint can dry on brushes quickly so rinsing often helps preserve your tools.
If you’re painting regularly, a tabletop or standing easel can help with comfort and posture.
While not essential, these tools support a smoother workflow and help you grow your skills over time.
To make starting simple, we offer a range of acrylic paint sets designed for beginners. These sets often include a selection of paints, brushes and surfaces all in one package; perfect if you’re unsure where to begin or buying for someone else.
When you shop with ArtStore Online you’re getting access to trusted brands, artist grade supplies and customer support from a team that understands your creative journey. Whether you’re painting at the kitchen table or setting up a dedicated studio space, we’ve got what you need to get started.
Acrylic painting doesn’t require a huge investment to begin—just the right tools and a little curiosity. With a set of vibrant paints, a few brushes and a surface that suits your style, you’re ready to explore colour, shape and texture in your own way.
At ArtStore Online we make it easy to begin with quality supplies that support your creativity. Explore our acrylic paints, brush sets, surfaces and starter kits to build a toolkit that inspires confidence.
Get started with confidence using beginner friendly acrylic sets from ArtStore Online. If you need help choosing the right materials just reach out. We’re here to support your artistic journey.
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