An understanding about pigment density and the specific gravity of paints and how you can use that info to help you create cells.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cells in Acrylic Pouring
1. What is the significance of cells in acrylic pouring?
Cells are distinct patterns created when different densities of paint react, adding visual interest and complexity to the artwork.
2. Can I create cells without silicone?
Silicone is a popular additive for creating cells, but other products like dimethicone or treadmill lubricant can also be used.
3. How can I achieve large cells in my pour?
Using a torch and tilting the canvas slowly can help in achieving larger cells.
4. How much silicone should I add to my paint mix?
Typically, a few drops are sufficient, but it can vary depending on the desired effect.
5. Should I mix the silicone thoroughly into the paint?
Light mixing is recommended as thorough mixing can diminish the cell effect.
6. Can I use any type of paint to create cells?
Fluid acrylics or acrylics mixed with pouring mediums generally work best for creating cells.
7. How long do artworks with cells take to dry?
It generally takes between 24 to 72 hours, but it can vary based on environmental conditions and paint thickness.
After being told in high school that she was so bad at art that she should switch to another subject, Deby didn’t paint again for 35 years. Then a stroke released a new wave of creativity and she began exploring with dot painting, abstract and eventually acrylic pouring, and at last the joy of working with color returned. You don’t need ‘talent’ to be an acrylic pouring artist – just enthusiasm, some basic instruction, and a willingness to try, fail and try again. Paint along with her and learn from her many mistakes, and you’ll soon make great art together.
Oh my gosh I love this. Thank you!!!
I use resin in my acrylic paints but i am having a problem getting very big cells. Do you know what i am doing wrong?
I think because you are using resin you can’t expect to get the same results as if you were using paints. Resin is a totally different medium to work in, needs different techniques and different additives. You can use a product called Resi-blast to make cells. Check it out here https://www.amazon.com/ResiBlast-dispersion-media-25-bottle/dp/B01M8NT7HN/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1509712653&sr=8-1&keywords=resi+blast&linkCode=sl1&tag=artcrnm-20&linkId=7ac9507b1205967f4b4102b11fcc3ba8
Resin is too thick and needs different specific techniques in order to create cells but are always thf smaller cells when using resin. The paints just need to be thin enough to br able to create the cells because if the paint is too thick & heavy to move easily then its gonna be too thick to react and move to react with the others. Be careful tho cuz if too thin they will mix too much creating mud /sludge. So u gotta learn the medium between the 2. Also , I dont know if I agree on his science of the cell making due to gravity cuz I believe and test the theory everyday that has taught me that its a reaction between the paints that is necessary to creating cells. In order to get them to react you need your different colors to includet additives that do not mix well. Causing the paint to separate (react). Its all trial & error really.
You have finally explained what I wanted to know from other videos.
The Golden site that you referred to for the specific gravity of their paints is:
https://www.goldenpaints.com/pdf_viewer?file=https://www.goldenpaints.com/admin/image/get_assets/golden-master-sds-011816.pdf
I am going to write down the specific gravity of all the Golden Fluid Acrylics I have then use that information as you did in this video.
Thank you so much!!!
Thank you for doing this! This has helped so very much.
This was so clear! Probably saved me hours. Thank you!!!
The weight of the pigments was the most informational part of the video but, I don’t know if it had to do with the size of his canvas, I was disappointed with the size of the cells. I work with larger canvases and those cells wouldn’t show up or make an impact. Are there any other videos to show creating large cells? Thanks!
We do have a good blog post on the topic of creating larger cells. Check that out here
Az a kattogó pisztoly-szerű mini kompresszor,amely szétveti a cellákat,/babósz/mi a neve annak,és hol lehet hozzájutni?
So if you were doing a dirty pour…. would you reverse the order of the paints in your pour cup? (i.e., putting the Titan Buff on the bottom of the cup?)
I love cells. However, sometimes I do not want cells. Is there any way to produce a work without cells.
Yep, check out this post: https://acrylicpouring.com/how-not-to-get-cells/
Why did the blue paint crack?
Can we use floeterol alongwith something to give it a sheen,or is their any topcoat to give it a shine .
A lot of people will use resin or some varnish (like Minwax polycrilic sealer) to make it more glossy. https://acrylicpouring.com/sealing/ this article goes over the process.
I watched your video on your formula for mixing your paints. I was so confused and bothered by everyone that has their own formulas. I gave up googled the formula that I was using and found out that it was okay to do so I have been using it. Your formula is very close to what I do and you have made me feel so very comfortable with your formula. I cannot thank you enough. I look no further, I am done. You have made it so simple and so easy to do. My original formula was just paint and water to the consistency that I wanted to have. Then I started adding a pouring medium and was not fond of that and I have mixed up more paints then I want with the pouring medium. I have written down your formula and fill this is all I need to know. What is your option of paint and just water? I noticed that your paint was very water thin I take it that with all of your research that you know that does not cause any problems. Do you put a varnish on your paintings when you are done?
I have been using a spray varnish for acrylic painting. What are your thoughts on that? Thank you again for putting my mind at ease and feeling so comfortable for what you are using. I am done looking for any more mixing of paints. All my best to you and I subscribed and look forward to watching you seeing what you do. If you have the opportunity I would love to hear from you.
it does not have to be complicated , thank you for sharing
, I am inspired !!!