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How to Paint Over an Acrylic Painting

Published in Painting Techniques 2 mins read

You can paint over a dry acrylic painting with acrylic paint. The beauty of acrylics is that you can paint over them without any special preparation. However, you might need multiple layers to fully cover the color underneath, especially if the colors are dark or contrasting.

Here are a few tips to help you get a smooth and even finish when painting over acrylic:

  • Make sure the original acrylic layer is completely dry. Acrylics dry quickly, but it's always a good idea to let them cure for at least 24 hours before painting over them. This will ensure that the new paint adheres properly.
  • Consider using gesso. Gesso is a primer that can help to create a smooth surface for painting and improve adhesion. It is especially helpful if you are painting over a textured surface or a very dark color.
  • Use a good quality acrylic paint. Artist-grade acrylics are more pigmented and opaque, so they will cover better than student-grade paints.

If you want to paint over the acrylic with oil paint, it is best to use a primer that is specifically designed for oil paint over acrylic. This will help to ensure that the oil paint adheres properly.

You can also choose to cover the acrylic painting entirely with a solid color acrylic paint, such as white or black. This will create a clean canvas for your new painting.