My Acrylic Ships Are Dull

I’ve received a few emails over the summer of students who are discovering one very important truths about Acrylics.

Acrylics dry dark.

Now how beautiful the painting or color you’ve just added, as the acrylic dries, the paint color darkens. I find myself constantly brightening my clouds and especially the sails of my tall ships.

The good news is acrylics dry quickly so it isn’t a long wait to discover just how much darker your dry painting is. So be prepared to go back over highlights 3-4 time until you achieve the brightness you’re seeking.