A close-up photo showcasing a paintbrush dipped in a vibrant mixture of acrylic paint and wall paint, capturing the blending of colors and the potential for creative experimentation.

Can You Mix Acrylic Paint With Wall Paint?

ByHulya Aksu Updated on

Painting walls can be an expensive endeavor, especially if you’re looking to cover a large surface area. This often leads DIYers to get creative and try mixing cheaper acrylic craft paints with standard wall paints to save on costs. But is this advisable?

Let’s take a detailed look at whether acrylic and wall paint can be successfully mixed.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Mixing acrylic paint with latex wall paint is not recommended. The acrylic is thinner, dries faster, and has a matte finish that differs from wall paint. This can lead to poor adhesion, an uneven finish, and visible brush strokes on walls.

Key Differences Between Acrylic and Wall Paint

Viscosity

One of the main differences between acrylic paint and wall paint is their viscosity. Acrylic paint has a thicker consistency compared to wall paint, which makes it easier to control and manipulate on a canvas or other surfaces.

The thicker viscosity of acrylic paint allows for more texture and layering, making it a popular choice among artists.

On the other hand, wall paint has a much thinner consistency, which makes it easier to apply evenly on large surfaces such as walls. The thinner viscosity of wall paint allows for smooth and even coverage, ensuring a professional finish.

Sheen Level

Another key difference between acrylic paint and wall paint is the sheen level. Acrylic paint is available in a variety of sheen levels, including matte, satin, and glossy. The sheen level of acrylic paint can affect its appearance, with glossy finishes reflecting more light and matte finishes providing a more subtle look.

Wall paint, on the other hand, is typically available in a limited range of sheen levels, such as flat, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss. The sheen level of wall paint can determine its durability and ease of cleaning, with higher sheen levels being more resistant to stains and easier to wipe clean.

Drying Time

Acrylic paint and wall paint also differ in terms of drying time. Acrylic paint has a relatively fast drying time, especially when compared to oil-based paints. Depending on the thickness of the paint and the environmental conditions, acrylic paint can dry within minutes to a few hours.

Wall paint, on the other hand, has a longer drying time due to its formulation and intended use. It typically takes several hours to a day for wall paint to dry completely, allowing for proper curing and adhesion to the surface.

It is important to note that while acrylic paint and wall paint have some differences, they are not interchangeable. Mixing acrylic paint with wall paint is not recommended, as it can affect the overall performance and durability of the paint.

For more information on acrylic paint and wall paint, you can visit The Spruce Crafts and The Spruce.

Potential Issues with Mixing Acrylic and Wall Paint

Clashing Sheens

One potential issue with mixing acrylic paint with wall paint is the difference in sheens. Acrylic paint usually has a matte or satin finish, while wall paint often has a flat or eggshell finish. When these two types of paint are mixed together, the result may be a paint mixture with conflicting sheens.

This can lead to an uneven and unattractive appearance on the walls. It is generally recommended to use paint products with similar sheens to achieve a consistent and professional-looking finish.

Improper Adhesion

Another issue that can arise from mixing acrylic and wall paint is improper adhesion. Acrylic paint is designed to adhere well to a variety of surfaces, but it may not bond properly with wall paint. This can result in the paint peeling or chipping off the wall over time.

To ensure proper adhesion, it is best to use paint products that are specifically formulated for the surface you are painting. For walls, it is recommended to use wall paint or paint designed for interior surfaces.

Visible Brush Strokes

Mixing acrylic paint with wall paint can also lead to visible brush strokes on the painted surface. Acrylic paint has a different consistency and texture compared to wall paint, which can cause brush strokes to stand out more prominently.

This can be particularly noticeable on smooth surfaces or when using a paint color that contrasts with the existing wall color. To achieve a smooth and seamless finish, it is advisable to use paint products that are specifically designed for the surface you are painting.

It is important to note that while some individuals may experiment with mixing acrylic paint and wall paint, it is generally recommended to use paint products that are compatible with each other. Following manufacturer guidelines and using products specifically formulated for the desired surface will help ensure a successful and long-lasting paint job.

Alternative Ways to Tint Wall Paint on a Budget

If you’re looking to add a pop of color or experiment with different shades, you may be wondering if it’s possible to mix acrylic paint with wall paint. While it’s not a common practice, there are alternative ways to tint wall paint without breaking the bank. Let’s explore some options:

Use Small Amounts of Acrylic as a Tint

If you have a small amount of acrylic paint lying around, you can use it to tint your wall paint. However, it’s important to note that this method is best suited for small projects or accents rather than large-scale painting.

Start by adding a small amount of acrylic paint to a sample pot of wall paint, and mix thoroughly. Test the color on a small area of the wall to see if it meets your desired shade. Keep in mind that acrylic paint may not have the same durability or finish as wall paint, so it’s important to use it sparingly.

Try Powdered Pigments

If you’re looking for a wider range of colors, powdered pigments can be a great option. These pigments are highly concentrated and can be mixed with wall paint to create custom shades. Simply add a small amount of powdered pigment to your desired amount of wall paint and mix well.

Be cautious with the amount of pigment you use, as a little goes a long way. Powdered pigments are available in various colors and can be found at art supply stores or online.

Use Universal Colorants

Another alternative to tinting wall paint is to use universal colorants. These colorants are specifically designed to be mixed with different types of paint, including wall paint. They come in a wide range of colors and can be easily added to your paint at the store or at home.

Universal colorants are often used by professionals to create custom colors, and they offer a more reliable and consistent result compared to other methods. It’s important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer when using universal colorants to achieve the desired color.

Remember, while these alternative methods can be cost-effective ways to tint wall paint, it’s important to test the color on a small area before committing to painting a whole room. Additionally, if you’re unsure about the compatibility of different paints or colorants, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or seek advice from reputable sources such as Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore.

Best Practices for Painting Walls

Prep the Surface Properly

Before starting any painting project, it is crucial to prep the surface properly. This involves cleaning the walls to remove any dirt, dust, or grease that may affect the adhesion of the paint. Additionally, it is important to fill in any cracks or holes in the walls with spackle or putty and sand them smooth.

By taking the time to properly prepare the surface, you can ensure a smooth and professional-looking finish.

Use Quality Brushes and Rollers

The tools you use can greatly impact the outcome of your painting project. When painting walls, it is recommended to use high-quality brushes and rollers. These tools will help you achieve a smooth and even application of paint, resulting in a more professional finish.

Cheap brushes and rollers often leave streaks or bristle marks, which can be frustrating to deal with. Investing in good quality brushes and rollers will save you time and effort in the long run.

Apply Multiple Thin Coats

When painting walls, it is best to apply multiple thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat. This allows for better coverage and helps prevent drips and uneven patches. Applying thin coats also ensures that the paint dries more evenly and reduces the chances of the paint cracking or peeling over time.

Remember to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.

Following these best practices will help you achieve a professional-looking finish when painting walls. Remember to take the time to properly prepare the surface, use high-quality brushes and rollers, and apply multiple thin coats of paint.

By doing so, you can ensure a beautiful and long-lasting paint job.

Conclusion

In summary, it’s not recommended to use acrylic craft paint as a primary wall paint or mix it in substantial ratios with latex wall paint. The differences in viscosity, sheen, and drying time can negatively impact the finish and durability of the paint job.

However, small amounts of acrylic can be used as an inexpensive tinting agent. For best results, use high quality wall paint and proper application techniques to achieve a flawless painted finish.

Hulya Aksu is the founder and editor-in-chief of Posh Seven Magazine, the leading lifestyle publication serving the affluent suburbs of Washington D.C. Born in Istanbul, Turkey, Hulya moved to the United States to pursue her passion for fashion. She worked for major fashion houses before recognizing a need for a magazine that spoke to successful women in D.C.'s prestigious neighborhoods.

In 2007, Hulya launched Posh Seven Magazine from her home while on maternity leave. The magazine quickly gained an avid following for its insider's perspective on upscale living in communities like McLean, Potomac, and Bethesda.

Over the past 15 years, Hulya has built Posh Seven into a multimedia brand with print, digital, social media, and experiential components. Her visionary leadership and hyper-local approach has made Posh Seven a go-to resource for over 100,000 readers.

As founder and editor-in-chief, Hulya lends the magazine her impeccable taste and insights into luxury living. She resides with her family in Ashburn, Virginia where the Posh Seven headquarters are located. Hulya is deeply committed to serving the vibrant community of successful women who call D.C.'s affluent suburbs home.

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