You know how those YouTubers make this look so easy? When you are starting out, it really isn’t easy. Even if you appear to copy what they do, follow their advice, your paintings never look the same? Hmm, yes, me too. But I’m still new, still learning, still trying, still experimenting and still failing. But still determined and still loving the process.
Today I’m copying – yes, outright copying someone else (all due homage to Annemarie for making us all addicted to this and showing us the way). I want to see if I can follow and get the same results, or will I fail? To be fair, I’m not exactly copying because although we might start off with the same idea, as usual, mine doesn’t work out as expected and I’m soon off and down a rabbit hole all of my own making.
Today, keeping it simple with just red, white and blue. Keeping it economical by pouring onto some free photo paper I have. Surprisingly, I get 4 for the price of 1! And they are all gorgeous. So for once, I was doing something right. Check out the video below.
My photo paper didn’t really do so well, but if you would like to try painting, pouring, swiping and dipping with acrylic paints on paper, I recommend getting YUPO paper – which isn’t paper at all, and will not warp and bend when wet.
Here’s a slideshow of the completed paintings and the details. Enjoy!
Please PIN and share this article and video. Save it for later and share it with your painting friends ? Thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Swiping On Photo paper
1. Can I use photo paper for acrylic pouring?
Yes, photo paper can be a suitable surface for smaller-scale acrylic pouring projects.
2. How does swiping technique work with red, white, and blue colors?
Swiping technique with these colors can create a patriotic effect, with colors blending slightly while maintaining individuality.
3. Can I use silicone to create cells in this method?
Yes, adding silicone can help in creating cells and enhancing the overall appearance.
4. How long does it take for the paint to dry on photo paper?
It can take between 24 to 48 hours, depending on paint thickness and environmental conditions.
5. Can I seal the artworks made on photo paper?
Yes, it is recommended to seal them with a clear, UV-resistant sealant.
6. Is this method suitable for acrylic pouring beginners?
Absolutely, this method is quite beginner-friendly.
7. Can I use other colors for the swiping technique on photo paper?
Yes, feel free to experiment with colors of your choice.
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.
I’m a beginner and I love working with acrylic paint.
I am a beginner at this and still not getting cells. I like what I get but want to see cells help please. It might have to do with the recipe. Could you give that??
There are so so many different recipes and no one recipe that magically can give cells for everyone because most likely all are using different brands of paint. I do have a standard ‘easy cells’ recipe included in the Getting Started with Acrylic Pouring ebook which I’ve tried and tested and should work for everyone if you follow it exactly. Or my YT videos usually list out all of the ingredients I am using and the ratios. Sorry there is no easy answer to this question.