How To Revive Acrylic Paint

Do you have a painting that has been left to collect dust in a corner somewhere?

Have you ever tried to bring it back from the brink of disaster, only to be disappointed when your attempt at restoring its beauty yields no results?

Don’t worry; reviving an acrylic paint masterpiece isn’t as complicated as it may seem.

With just a few tips, some basic supplies, and of course, plenty of patience – you can bring any faded or damaged painting back to life.

In this blog post, I’ll share helpful tips on how to rehydrate dried acrylic paint so that all those lovely creations don’t wind up forgotten in the depths of storage.

Let’s get started.

Acrylic Paint Properties

Acrylic paints are known for their vibrant colors, wide range of textures, and fast-drying capability.

While they may look like regular paints at first glance, acrylics have some unique properties that set them apart from other mediums.

One of the most noteworthy qualities of acrylic paint is its quick drying time – typically only a few minutes – which makes them ideal for use in busy studios or for quick touch-ups.

It can also make the colors “pop” when used on raw canvas painting surfaces, making it a popular choice for artists looking to add more depth and contrast to their works.

In addition to their speed, acrylic paints are incredibly versatile when it comes to their uses.

They can be used on a variety of surfaces, including paper, cardboard, wood, and fabric.

It is also water-resistant which makes it great for outdoor projects or paintings that may need to withstand moisture or humidity.

Acrylic paints are very durable and long-lasting compared to other types of paint, allowing for the colors to remain vibrant and true over time.

The paints are also non-toxic, making them safe for use in households with children or pets.

Interesting Read: Is Acrylic Paint Flammable When Dry?

How To Revive Acrylic Paint

Revive your dried-out acrylic paint by adding a few drops of water or acrylic medium to the mixture. Stir well, and add more as necessary to achieve the desired consistency. Avoid adding too much water, as this can dilute the pigment and compromise the quality of the paint.

Reasons Acrylic Paints Dry

If you have dried up paint, here are  some of the reasons why acrylic paints dry quickly:

i. Evaporation

As acrylic paint dries on the canvas, the volatile components in the paint evaporate as it is exposed to air.

This leaves behind only the solid particles that make up the pigment color and binder, allowing the paint to dry.

ii. Exposure to air

Acrylic paints must be exposed to air in order for them to dry. As the paint is exposed to oxygen, it oxidizes and the volatile components evaporate.

This leaves behind only the solid particles that make up the pigment color and binder, allowing the paint to bind to the canvas as it dries.

iii. Age

Over time, acrylic paints begin to dry out due to natural aging processes.

This is because the volatile components of the paint are slowly evaporating over time, leaving behind only the solid particles that make up the pigment color and binder.

As a result, older acrylic paints may take longer to dry than newer paints.

iv. Heat

Is acrylic paint heat resistant? Heat accelerates the drying time of acrylic paint, due to the increased rate of evaporation caused by higher temperatures.

This is because as heat is applied, the volatile components in the paint evaporate at a faster rate, which leaves behind only the solid particles that make up the pigment color and binder.

Read Also: Can You Bake Acrylic Paint in the Oven?

v. Humidity

While high humidity levels slow down the rate of evaporation and therefore lengthen the drying time, low humidity speeds up the evaporation process and causes acrylic paints to dry faster.

vi. Thinners

Acrylic thinners are solvents that are added to acrylic paint in order to make them easier to spread and apply.

These thinners evaporate as the paint dries, leaving behind only the solid particles that make up the pigment color and binder. 

vii. Paint quality

High-quality paints will generally contain more pigment and binder, which makes them thicker and helps them to dry faster.

On the other hand, low-quality acrylic paints may not have as much pigment or binder, making them thin and taking longer to dry.

Signs That Acrylic Paint Is Dried Out

The signs that acrylic paint is dried out are easily recognizable. Some of the most obvious signs include the following:

Cracking or Flaking of Paint

Does acrylic paint crack? Hardened acrylic paint may start to crack and flake away from the surface it was applied.

This is caused by the paint becoming brittle and losing its adhesion to the surface.

It goes hand in hand with a hard texture since both indicate that the paint is no longer usable.

If it was applied on shoes, here’s how to prevent acrylic paint from cracking on shoes.

Color Fading

Another sign of acrylic paint drying out is the color becoming dull and losing its vibrancy. This occurs when paint loses its moisture, causing it to become chalky and faded.

It is also a sign that the paint will not adhere properly to surfaces, making it difficult to use for artistic works or other painting projects.

Change of Texture

As the paint dries out, it will also change in texture. This change ranges from becoming more stiff and rubbery to a powdery, chalky consistency.

If you notice such an occurrence, then the paint is no longer usable for its intended purpose.

Clumps of Paint

Clumps of paint can indicate that the acrylic paint is dried out. The clumps will be formed where the paint has lost its cohesion and become lumpy in texture.

This can also cause the paint to adhere less effectively and make it difficult to use for painting projects. Here is how to get lumps out of paint.

How to Rehydrate Acrylic Paint

If you are struggling to rehydrate acrylic paint, this section discusses some of the common ways of rehydrating acrylic paint you can try.

1. A drop or more of warm water

Water is the simplest and most cost-effective way to fix dry paint. Adding a few drops of water to the paint and mixing it thoroughly can help restore its consistency.

However, this method can also dilute the paint and make your acrylic paint watery, so it’s best to use it only for minor touch-ups.

Warm water works best since it softens the paint more quickly.

2. Use palette paper to keep acrylic paint wet

A palette paper is a disposable paper sheet that can be used to hold acrylic paint. This paper keeps acrylic paint wet on the palette and makes cleaning easier.

Simply place a sheet of palette paper on it and squeeze out the paint on top of it.

3. Add fluid acrylic medium

Acrylic medium extends the drying time and increases the transparency of acrylic paint.

Add a small amount of medium to hard acrylic paint can help restore its consistency and color, while also improving its adhesive properties.

Types of acrylic medium:

• Gel medium: Gel medium is useful for adding texture, body and volume to acrylic paints. It thickens the paint, making it easy to manipulate on canvas or other surfaces.
• Glazing medium: Adds a glossy sheen to acrylic paints while slowing their drying time. This makes it ideal for creating layers of color without disturbing the underlying layer.
• Matte medium: Useful for adding opacity of acrylic paint and decreasing the sheen. It also helps to add a matte, non-reflective finish that can protect your artwork from dirt, grime, and UV rays.
• Heavy gel medium: Increases the body and viscosity of acrylic paints making it ideal for creating thick, textured brush strokes on canvas or other surfaces.
• Soft gel medium: Increase the flexibility and adhesion of acrylic paints while improving their overall texture. It’s ideal for creating thin, even layers on canvas or other surfaces.

4. Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol breaks down the polymer molecules in acrylic paint, making it more fluid and easier to work with.

To revive acrylic paint with alcohol, add a few drops of rubbing alcohol to the paint and mix it thoroughly. 

If you decide to use this method, be careful as it may weaken the paint’s adhesive properties. I prefer you use it only for non-critical applications.

5. Make a mixture with oil paint

Acrylic paint can be mixed with oil paints to create unique colors and textures.

However, oil paints take longer to dry than acrylic paints, therefore mix the paints in small quantities and use them immediately.

To create a mixture with oil paint, add a small amount of oil paint to the acrylic paint and mix it thoroughly.

6. Acrylic glazing liquid

Acrylic glazing liquid, a specific type of acrylic paint thinner, is used to dilute acrylic paint, producing a transparent glaze.

It also serves to prolong the acrylic paint’s workable duration, making it perfect for blending and layering techniques.

To reactivate acrylic paint with glazing liquid, add a small amount to the acrylic paint and mix it thoroughly until it reaches the desired consistency.

7. Gesso

Gesso is a primer that can be used to prepare surfaces for painting with acrylics. It helps create a smooth, even surface and can also improve the adhesion of the paint.

To use gesso, apply a thin layer to the surface with a brush or roller and let it dry completely before painting.

8. Store acrylic paint in a cool, dry place 

Store acrylic paint in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as heat and light can cause the paint to dry out and deteriorate.

A basement, closet or cabinet that’s away from direct sunlight and heat sources is a good storage location. 

Do not store acrylic paint in areas exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity, such as attics, garages or bathrooms.

Extremely low temperatures, such as subzero cold, have the potential to freeze acrylic paint, causing it to become fragile and susceptible to cracking.

It is advisable to steer clear of temperatures that fall below freezing point, specifically 32°F or 0°C.

9. Use a palette knife to mix acrylic paint before use

Using a palette knife to mix acrylic paint before use can help ensure that the pigment and water are evenly distributed throughout the paint.

This can help prevent the paint from drying out or becoming too thick or thin during use.

10. Use airtight Paint container to store acrylic paint

To prevent air exposure and evaporation, store the paint in an airtight pain container as this can cause the leftover paint to dry out.

Use containers with tight-fitting lids that can be securely sealed to keep the paint fresh for longer periods.

Glass jars or plastic containers with snap-on lids are good options for storing acrylic paint.

11. Clean the palette regularly

Cleaning the palette regularly can help prevent the build-up of dried-out paint and other debris that can contaminate fresh acrylic paint.

Simply wipe the palette clean with a damp cloth or paper towel after each use.

For stubborn stains or dried-out paint, use a scraper or palette knife to remove the debris before wiping the surface clean.

12. Use a wetting agent.

A wetting agent is a specialized product designed to help prevent acrylic paint from drying out on the palette.

Add a few drops of wetting agent to the paint to keep it wet and workable for longer periods, even in hot and dry environments.

13. Revive acrylic paint with commercial paint revivers

There are several commercial paint revivers available on the market that can help revive dried-out acrylic paint.

These products contain proprietary formulas that can help restore the moisture content and consistency of the paint, as well as its color and adhesive properties.

14. Acrylic flow improver

Flow improver is a liquid additive that helps thin the consistency of acrylic paint, making it easier to apply and blend with other colors.

When added to an already dried-out paint, it can help restore some of its original fluidity. 

15. Store the paint upside down to prevent air exposure

Storing acrylic paint upside down can help prevent air exposure and evaporation of water, which can cause the paint to dry out.

The water in acrylic paint is heavier than the pigment, so storing the paint upside down can help keep the pigment and water mixed together.

16. Cover the palette with plastic wrap

Covering the palette with plastic wrap can help create an airtight seal that can prevent the paint from drying out.

Simply cover the palette with plastic wrap after use and store it in a cool, dry place.

17. Use a retarder to slow down the drying process of acrylic paint

A retarder is a specialized product designed to slow down the drying time of acrylic paint.

Adding a few drops of retarder to the paint can help extend the working time, making it ideal for blending and layering techniques. 

Retarder can also help prevent the paint from drying out on the palette, giving artists more time to work with the paint.

Related Read: How to Preserve Acrylic Painting on Canvas

How to Keep Acrylic Paint From Drying Out

Oftentimes,  acrylic paint can become dry and brittle, making them difficult to use. To keep acrylic paint from drying, there are several steps you can take. 

Return the caps of tubes and containers

One way to ensure that your acrylic paint does not dry out is to make sure you return the caps on the paint tubes and containers.

This prevents air from entering and drying out your paints, allowing them to stay moist for a longer duration of time. 

Whenever possible, try to keep the lids on your paint containers to reduce the amount of air that gets into them. Also, make sure you tightly close the lid after each use and avoid spilling any of the paint onto it. This will help keep it moist and usable for much longer.

Cover your workplace

When working on an acrylic painting project, cover your work surface. You will prevent the paint from drying out too quickly and becoming unusable. 

You can cover your work area with a damp cloth, plastic sheeting, or any other material that is not porous enough to absorb moisture. This is significant in keeping moisture within the paint, allowing it to stay usable for longer periods of time.

Proper storage of paint

Storing your acrylic paints in an airtight container is also a great way to make sure they stay wet longer. Plastic containers are often ideal for storing paint because they are not porous and do not allow air to escape or enter the container. 

Store your paint away from direct sunlight or any other heat sources, as this will cause the paint to dry out faster.

Put a small amount of paint on the palette

When you are using acrylic paints, take out only a small amount and apply it to your painting palette. This ensures that there is always fresh paint in contact with the air, which will help keep it from drying out.

Remember to always clean your palette after each use to avoid mixing the wet and dry paint, as this can cause the paint to become unusable.

Moisture retention

To help retain moisture within your paint and prevent it from drying out quickly, try adding a few drops of water or a medium such as an acrylic flow enhancer. This provides the paint with some additional moisture, allowing it to stay wet for longer periods of time. 

You may also add little drops of water or medium to thin out your paints, making them easier to work with.

Use of airtight containers

Store your acrylic paints in airtight containers when not in use. This method prevents air from getting inside the container and drying out the paint, thus allowing it to stay usable for a longer duration of time. 

Airtight containers are also great for preventing dust and debris from entering your paints, which can cause them to become unusable if left unchecked. 

In case you don’t have an airtight container, you can use a resealable plastic bag to store your paint. If this is the case then, squeeze out all of the extra air before sealing it up.

Tips to Maintain Acrylic Paint

Adding a wetting agent-A wetting agent is a specialized product designed to help prevent acrylic paint from drying out on the palette. Add a few drops of wetting agent to the paint to keep it wet and workable for longer periods, even in hot and dry environments. Wetting agents can also improve the flow of the paint, making it easier to work with.

Using palette paper-A palette paper is a disposable paper sheet that can be used to hold acrylic paint. This paper can help prevent the paint from drying out on the palette and also make clean-up easier. Simply place a sheet of palette paper on the palette and squeeze out the paint on top of it. When done painting, remove the paper and discard it, leaving the palette clean and free of dried-out paint.

Covering the palette with plastic wrap – Covering the palette with plastic wrap can help create an airtight seal that can prevent the paint from drying out. Simply cover the palette with plastic wrap after use and store it in a cool, dry place. This method can help keep the paint moist and workable for longer periods.

Spraying water on the paint surface – Spraying a fine mist of water on the paint surface can help keep it wet and workable. This method is ideal for artists who prefer to work with wet paint and like to keep it moist throughout the painting process. Simply use a spray bottle filled with water to mist the paint surface as needed.

Cleaning the palette regularly – Cleaning the palette regularly can help prevent the build-up of dried-out paint and other debris that can contaminate fresh paint. Simply wipe the palette clean with a damp cloth or paper towel after each use. A clean palette can help maintain the quality of the paint and prevent it from drying out prematurely.

FAQs

What to do with dried acrylic paint?

Dried acrylic paint can be made wet again by adding small amounts of water until it reaches the desired consistency. If necessary, you can also add a drop or two of acrylic medium or gel to make the paint more pliable. Once the dried paint is softened, try blending it with fresh paint on your palette and continue painting.

Wrap-Up: Do Not Give Up On Your Dried Paint Yet

To conclude, take good care of your painting supplies, especially when it comes to acrylic paint. Acrylic paint can have a long life when it is properly stored, but even if the paint becomes dry and unworkable, do not give up on it just yet. 

With a few simple tricks and techniques, dry acrylic paint can be revived and ready to use in no time. 

With the steps discussed, what was once dry acrylic paint can turn into a beautiful work of art once again. All you need is patience and determination – don’t give up on your hydrated acrylic paints just yet!

So go ahead and try out these techniques – let your artwork know no limits!