There’s a reason why acrylic paint is such a popular medium for artists. It’s versatile, affordable, and relatively easy to use.
However, there may come a time when you want to paint over an acrylic painting with another color or medium.
Luckily, it’s possible to do this without damaging the existing paint job. In this article, we’ll show you how to do it. Keep reading for tips on how to Paint Over Acrylic Paint!
Can You Paint Over Acrylic Paint?
Yes, you can paint over acrylic paint, but it can be tricky. The key is to use the right type of paint and to prepare the surface properly. If you don’t do this, the new paint job will peel off within a few weeks (if not sooner).
Down below, we are going to show you what type of paint to use and how to prepare the surface before painting over it.
Is Acrylic Paint Hard To Paint Over?
No, acrylic paint is not hard to paint over. In fact, it’s one of the easiest types of paint to work with. The main thing you need to be careful of is not to use too much paint.
If you do, the new paint will crack and peel off within a few weeks. To make your painting easier and to avoid this problem, we recommend using a primer before painting over the acrylic paint.
What Paint Can You Use Over Acrylic Paint?
Acrylic paints are a versatile medium that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including canvas, wood, and plastic.
However, because it is water-based, it can be tricky to paint over acrylic paint without disturbing the underlying layer.
The best way to do this is to use a product specifically designed for painting over acrylic paint, such as an acrylic primer or gesso.
These products will help to create a smooth surface that is ideal for painting. Once you have applied the primer or gesso, you can then choose any type of paint that you would like to use.
Oil-based paints are a good option for painting over acrylics, as they will not interact with the underlying layer and will provide a smooth, even finish. Other types of paint, such as watercolor or gouache, can also be used.
When using watercolor or gouache, it is important to make sure that the paint is completely dry before applying the next layer.
Otherwise, the new paint will interact with the underlying acrylic layer and could cause the colors to run.
Interesting read: Gouache vs acrylic.
How To Paint Over Acrylic Paint
Now that you know what type of paint to use, it’s time to learn how to paint over acrylic paint. Follow these steps and you’ll have no problem painting over your existing paint job.
Step 1: Start by sanding the surface of the paint
Before you start painting, you need to make sure that the surface is smooth and even. The best way to do this is to sand the paint with a fine-grit sandpaper.
This will rough up the surface of the paint and provide a good key for the new paint to adhere to.
If you’re painting over a large area, you may want to use an electric sander to make the job easier.
However, be careful not to sand too much, as this can damage the surface beneath the paint. After sanding, clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust.
Step 2: Apply a primer or gesso
Once the surface is sanded and clean, it’s time to apply a primer or gesso. These products will help to create a smooth surface that is ideal for painting.
We recommend using an acrylic primer or gesso, as these products are specifically designed for painting over acrylic paint.
To apply the acrylic gesso, use a brush or roller and spread it evenly over the surface of the paint.
Make sure to apply a thin layer, as too much primer can cause the new paint to crack and peel. Allow the primer or gesso to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Choose your paint
Now that the surface is prepared, it’s time to choose the type of paint that you want to use.
We recommend using an oil paint, as it will not interact with the underlying layer and will provide a smooth, even finish.
However, other types of paint, such as watercolor or gouache, can also be used.
When using watercolor or gouache, it is important to make sure that the paint is completely dry before applying the next layer.
Otherwise, the new paint will interact with the underlying acrylic layer and could cause the colors to run.
Now, find out the difference between watercolor and acrylic paint.
Step 4: Apply the paint
Once you have chosen the type of paint you want to use, it’s time to apply it to the surface.
Use a brush or roller to spread the paint evenly over the surface. Make sure to apply a thin layer, as too much paint can cause problems with adhesion and durability.
Depending on the surface you are painting, you may need to apply multiple coats of paint.
After the paint has dried, you can optional seal the surface with a clear varnish or sealant. This will help to protect the paint and make it more durable.
Read also: Acrylic paint vs poster paint.
Sealing Your Project After Painting It
Once you have finished painting your project, you may want to seal it with a clear varnish or sealant. This will help to protect the paint and make it more durable.
There are many different types of varnishes and sealants available, so be sure to choose one that is compatible with the type of paint you are using.
For example, if you are using an oil-based paint, you will need to use an oil-based varnish or sealant.
To apply the varnish or sealant, use a brush or roller and spread it evenly over the surface of the paint.
Make sure to apply a thin layer, as too much can cause the thick acrylic paint to crack and peel. Allow the varnish or sealant to dry completely before using or handling the painted surface.
Painting Over Acrylic Paint on Wood
Compared to other surfaces such as walls or metal, painting over acrylic paint on wood is relatively easy. This is because wood is a porous surface that absorbs paint well.
The best way to paint over acrylic paint on wood is to use an oil-based paint. This acrylic wood paint will not interact with the underlying layer and will provide a smooth, even finish.
However, other types of paint, such as latex or water-based paint, can also be used.
When using latex or water-based paint, it is important to first prime the surface with an oil-based primer.
This will ensure that the new paint does not interact with the acrylic paint and will provide a smooth finish. Remember to seal acrylic paint on wood for durability.
How To Gesso Over A Painting
Gesso is a type of primer that is specifically designed for use on canvas or other porous surfaces.
It is made from a combination of paint and plaster and can be used to create a smooth surface for painting.
To apply gesso, use a brush or roller and spread it evenly over the surface of the painting.
Make sure to apply a thin layer, as too much gesso can cause acrylic paint to crack and peel. Allow the gesso to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Can You Paint Over Acrylic Paint with Wall Paint?
In general, you should not paint over acrylic paint with wall paint. This is because wall paint is not designed to adhere to acrylic paint and can cause the new paint to crack and peel.
If you want to paint over acrylic paint, we recommend using an oil-based latex paint. This type of paint will not interact with the underlying layer and will provide a smooth, even finish. And can you use acrylic paint on walls? Read to find out.
Related Read: What Paint to Use on Concrete
Can You Paint Over an Acrylic Painting?
Acrylic painting can be a bit tricky to paint over. This is because acrylic paint is designed to be permanent and can be very difficult to remove.
If you want to paint over an acrylic painting, we recommend using a primer first. This will help to create a barrier between the paint and the surface you’re painting on.
Can I Paint Over Acrylic Paint with Latex?
Acrylic paint is a water-based paint, so it is not surprising that you can use latex paint over it. In fact, many people do this all the time. And can you mix acrylic paint with latex paint? Find out.
However, there are a few things you should know before painting over acrylic paint with latex.
First of all, you need to make sure that you are working with dry acrylic paint before you start painting over with latex.
If it is not completely dry, the latex paint will not adhere properly and you will end up with a mess.
Secondly, you need to sand the surface of the acrylic paint before you start painting over it with latex. This will help to rough up the surface so that the latex paint can adhere properly.
Finally, you need to use a primer before you start painting over the acrylic paint with latex. This will help to create a barrier between the two types of paint and will also help the latex paint to adhere better.
Read our other guide on acrylic tie dye painting to learn a new tecnique.
FAQs
What paint can go over acrylic paint?
You can use either a water-based or an oil-based paint over acrylic paint, as long as the previous paint is fully dry. If you use an oil-based paint, it may take longer to dry than normal.
How do you make acrylic paint not sticky?
Add a small amount of retarding medium to your paint if it’s too sticky. Use a paintbrush to mix it in until the desired consistency is achieved. You can also try using a different brand of acrylic paint that has less of a tendency to be sticky.
Can you seal over acrylic paint?
Yes, you can seal over acrylic paint, as long as it is dry and cured. If you use an oil-based sealer, it may take longer to dry than normal.
Can you paint over a sealed acrylic painting?
Yes, you can paint over a sealed acrylic painting, as long as the sealer is dry and cured. If you use an oil-based paint, it may take longer to dry than normal.
Conclusion
By now, you should have a good understanding of how to paint over acrylic paint.
Remember to always test the paint on a small area first to make sure it is compatible with the surface you’re painting on.
Once you’ve done that, you can go ahead and start painting!
Have you ever painted over acrylic paint? Share your experience in the comments below!
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