How to Thin Acrylic Enamel

Acrylic paints are widely used for a variety of purposes including fine arts, interior and exterior painting and auto painting. The difference between acrylic paint and acrylic enamel is a blurred line since the terms are often used interchangeably. However, there is a key difference between the two that affects what liquid you must use to thin the paint. Regular acrylic paint is water-based, whereas acrylic enamel is usually oil-based.

Things You'll Need

• Acrylic paint
• Water
• White spirit

Instructions

1. Read the label to determine if the paint is water-based or oil-based.

2. If water-based, add water to the paint until the desired consistency is achieved.

3. If oil-based, use white spirit (also known as mineral spirits), which is a paint-thinning solvent, to dilute the paint.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply the thinning agent slowly while mixing thoroughly. If you add too much of your thinning agent, simply add more paint to thicken.

• Whatever you use to thin the paint is also the liquid you should use to clean your brushes.

• Be aware that thinning acrylic paint weakens the chemical compound and multiple coats will likely be necessary.

References

• Scott Grundfor Co.: Ideas for Collectors
• Sherwin-Williams: Painting How-To's

Resources

• Paints and Coatings Resource Center