Can I Mix Sennelier's Tempera Paint with Acrylic?

The question of whether you can mix Sennelier's tempera paint with acrylic can be approached with both enthusiasm and caution. While the spirit of artistic experimentation encourages bold moves, it's crucial to consider the compatibility and the potential outcomes. This article explores the possibilities and provides insights to help you decide on your next creative step.

Understanding the Paints

To answer this question, it's important to understand the nature of both paints. Sennelier’s tempera is an egg-based paint, specifically formulated with a combination of pigments and egg yolk. On the other hand, acrylics are water-based and made from synthetic polymers. These fundamental differences can impact the compatibility of the two paints when mixed.

Compatibility Concerns

One key concern is the fundamental incompatibility of these paints. The egg-based nature of tempera makes it fundamentally incompatible with the polymer components of acrylic paints. Acrylic is a polymer-based paint, and when mixed with egg-based tempera, it can lead to issues such as cracking, discolouration, and poor adhesion. Each paint is designed to work in its own specific environment, and mixing them can result in unpredictability and inconsistency.

Experimenting with Mixtures

Despite these concerns, many artists have experimented with mixing tempera and acrylic paints. While there are no strict rules in art, it's important to test any mixtures before applying them to your work. Here are some steps to follow:

Preparation: Mix a small amount of paint and apply it to a surface. This could be a small area on a canvas or a specialized testing board.

Testing: Allow the mixture to dry completely. This can take several days depending on the environment. Pay attention to how the paint dries, whether it cracks, and if it changes colour.

Adhesion: Check if the mixture adheres properly to the surface. Ensure it doesn't flake or detach over time.

These tests can help you determine if the resulting mixture is stable and suitable for your work.

Practical Uses of Mixtures

While mixing Sennelier's tempera with acrylic can be risky, there are scenarios where it might be beneficial. One practical use is for modifying a tint or adjusting the colour of an existing acrylic paint. However, this should be done with caution, as it can alter the integrity of the acrylic. Here are a few tips:

Tint Adjustment: Use tempera to adjust the tint of an acrylic paint, but be prepared to compromise on solubility and resistance to smearing.

Temporary Projects: Consider mixing tempera and acrylic for temporary projects where the permanence of the work is not a concern.

Experimental Art: For experimental pieces, mixing the paints can lead to unique and unexpected results. However, document your process carefully for future reference.

Conclusion

The decision to mix Sennelier's tempera with acrylic paint is a personal one that depends on your artistic goals and the nature of your project. While there are no hard and fast rules, it's essential to proceed with caution. By understanding the nature of the paints and conducting thorough tests, you can make informed decisions and create unique pieces that are both beautiful and durable.