Premium Acrylic Paints That Elevate Your Art
For most artists, Golden Heavy Body Acrylics offer the best balance of pigment intensity, buttery consistency, and durability, though they come at a higher price point.
Choosing the right acrylic paint can transform your artwork. Premium brands offer superior pigmentation and consistency that student-grade paints cannot match.
Whether you are a professional or an enthusiastic hobbyist, investing in high-quality acrylics ensures vibrant colors and better longevity for your pieces.
Before you buy
The top picks, ranked
Golden Heavy Body Acrylic Paint
Golden Heavy Body is renowned for its thick, buttery consistency and high pigment concentration. It maintains peaks and brushstrokes, making it ideal for impasto techniques. Artists praise its smooth flow and excellent color mixing.
Pros
- Exceptional color intensity
- Retains brushstrokes well
- Consistent texture across colors
Cons
- Expensive compared to others
- Can be too thick for detailed work without thinning
Liquitex Professional Heavy Body Acrylic
Liquitex Professional Heavy Body offers a smooth, buttery texture with high pigment load. It is known for its durability and archival quality. Many artists use it for both fine details and broad washes.
Pros
- Wide range of colors
- Good flow and leveling
- Trusted archival quality
Cons
- Some colors may dry slightly darker
- Price point is high
Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic
Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylics are made with high-quality pigments and a unique acrylic resin for excellent color brilliance. They offer a smooth, creamy consistency that works well for both fine art and illustration.
Pros
- True pigment colors
- Smooth, blendable texture
- Excellent for glazing techniques
Cons
- Very expensive
- Limited color range compared to others
Matisse Structure Acrylic Paint
Matisse Structure Acrylic is a heavy body paint with a unique matte finish. It is highly pigmented and retains its shape well, making it ideal for palette knife work and textured layers.
Pros
- Matte finish reduces glare
- Holds peaks perfectly
- High pigment concentration
Cons
- Matte finish may not suit all styles
- May require more coats for full coverage
Sennelier Abstract Acrylic
Sennelier Abstract Acrylics are known for their extremely high pigment load and smooth, honey-like texture. They offer exceptional color brilliance and a satin finish. They are great for fluid techniques and pouring.
Pros
- Intense color saturation
- Smooth flow for pouring
- Satin finish that enhances colors
Cons
- Fluid consistency may not suit impasto
- High price point
Holbein Acrylic Gouache
Holbein Acrylic Gouache combines the opacity and matte finish of gouache with the water-resistance of acrylics. It is perfect for designers and illustrators who need flat, uniform colors.
Pros
- Excellent opacity
- Matte, velvety finish
- Can be used in thin washes
Cons
- Not suitable for thick impasto
- Limited color range
Daniel Smith Extra Fine Acrylics
Daniel Smith Extra Fine Acrylics are made with a high concentration of finely ground pigments. They offer a wide selection of unique colors, including historical pigments. The consistency is medium-bodied, suitable for both detail and washes.
Pros
- Unique color palette
- Great for glazing
- Soft body allows fine details
Cons
- Not as thick for impasto
- Some colors may be less lightfast
How they stack up
| # | Model | Pigment Load | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Golden Heavy Body Acrylic Paint | High, with minimal fillers | Professional artists seeking maximum pigment load | 9.6 | Check price |
| 2 | Liquitex Professional Heavy Body Acrylic | High, with minimal fillers | Artists who prefer a versatile, reliable paint | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic | High, with high pigment content | Artists who value traditional color names and quality | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Matisse Structure Acrylic Paint | High, pure pigments | Artists who enjoy a thick, buttery paint with matte finish | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Sennelier Abstract Acrylic | Very high, rich pigments | Artists seeking vibrant colors with a honey-like consistency | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Holbein Acrylic Gouache | High, with high covering power | Artists who want opaque, matte colors like gouache but with acrylic permanence | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Daniel Smith Extra Fine Acrylics | High, with fine pigments | Artists who appreciate nuanced color and unique pigments | 8.3 | Check price |
Good to know
What is the difference between student and professional acrylic paints?
Professional acrylics have higher pigment concentration and better quality binders, leading to stronger color, better mixing, and increased durability. Student grades contain more fillers and less pigment, so they are less vibrant and may not be as lightfast.
Are premium acrylic paints worth the extra cost?
For serious artists, yes. The higher pigment load and quality ensure that your artwork retains its vibrancy and lasts longer. For beginners, student-grade paints may be sufficient for practice.
Can I mix different brands of premium acrylics?
Yes, you can mix brands since all acrylics are water-based and compatible. However, be aware that different brands may have slightly different consistencies and drying times, which can affect the final result.
How long do acrylic paints take to dry?
Acrylics dry relatively quickly, usually within 15-30 minutes to touch, but it depends on thickness and humidity. Premium heavy body paints often have a slightly longer open time, allowing for more blending.
Do acrylic paints need a primer?
For most surfaces, especially canvas, using a primer like gesso is recommended to ensure adhesion and prevent the paint from soaking in. Premium paints can be used directly on properly primed surfaces.
Can I thin premium acrylics with water?
Yes, you can thin them with water, but use it sparingly as too much water can weaken the paint film. For fluid techniques, consider using a professional acrylic medium to maintain integrity.
What does lightfastness mean?
Lightfastness indicates a paint’s resistance to fading when exposed to ultraviolet light. Ratings like I (excellent) or II (very good) are considered archival, meaning they will retain their color for many years.
Are premium acrylics safe to use?
Most premium acrylics are non-toxic and conform to ASTM D-4236, but some pigments may contain heavy metals. Always check the label and use good ventilation when painting.
How should I store my acrylic paints?
Store paints in a cool, dry place with caps tightly closed. Avoid extreme temperatures, as they can affect the consistency. Keeping them away from direct sunlight will also prolong their shelf life.
Can I use acrylic paints on non-traditional surfaces?
Yes, acrylics are versatile and can adhere to many surfaces including wood, paper, fabric, and even glass with proper preparation. Using a medium or primer can improve adhesion.
Final word
For the best overall performance and value, choose Golden Heavy Body Acrylics. They offer unmatched pigment intensity and a buttery texture that professional artists demand. If you prefer a more versatile option with a trusted name, Liquitex Professional Heavy Body is a close second. For artists who love a matte finish, Matisse Structure is an excellent choice.
