Painting Acrylics Over Oils: The Ultimate Guide

Painting with acrylics over oils can be a fascinating challenge for artists. While it is possible, certain considerations must be made to ensure the final result is both aesthetically pleasing and durable. This guide will cover the key factors to keep in mind when blending these two mediums, including drying time, adhesion, technique, priming, and the potential pitfalls.

Drying Time

One of the most critical elements to consider is the drying time of the bottom layer of oil paint. Acrylic paints need a perfectly dry surface to adhere properly. Oil paints can take a long time to dry, sometimes days, weeks, or even months, depending on the thickness and type of oil paint used. It is essential to wait until the oil paint is completely dry before applying acrylics. Rushing this process can lead to poor adhesion and peeling.

Adhesion

Acrylics adhere well to dry oil paint, but the surface must be fully cured. If the oil paint is not dry, the acrylics may not stick properly and could peel off. The oil layer underneath can interfere with the adhesion of acrylics if not cured completely, leading to damage to the paint. Testing a small area first can help you determine if the oil paint is ready for the acrylic layer.

Technique

When painting with acrylics over oils, it is best to use a light touch. Applying too much pressure can disrupt the underlying oil layer and compromise the adhesion of the acrylics. A delicate touch ensures that the acrylics stay in place and blend seamlessly with the oil paint.

Priming

Another effective method is to apply a layer of gesso or acrylic medium over the oil paint. This layer serves as a transition between the two mediums, creating a better surface for the acrylics and preventing any potential peeling or cracking. Gesso is an excellent primer that adheres well to oil paints, making it a popular choice among artists.

Testing Beforehand

Before you commit to applying acrylics over oils, it is wise to test the materials on a small area or a separate canvas. This allows you to observe how the two materials interact and if any issues arise. Identifying any potential problems early on can help you avoid costly errors and disappointments in the final piece.

Why Acrylics Over Oils May Not Stick

There is a common misconception that applying acrylics over oil paint will result in the acrylic part peeling off. This happens due to the incomplete cure of the oil layer, which prevents the acrylics from adhering properly. Additionally, if the canvas or paper is white and you mix acrylic and oil, the oil will "bleed" through the surface, causing the paint to crack and look aesthetically displeasing. If the oils are not fully dry, you risk the acrylics not drying fully and cracking as well.

Acrylics as a Beginner Medium

Acrylics are an excellent choice for beginners due to their flexibility. You can mix colors easily and do not have to worry about getting your canvas dirty. Acrylic paints are more forgiving than oil paints and are ideal for those who are just starting their painting journey. However, it is important to use acrylics over oil paints, not over other acrylics. Applying acrylics over other acrylics can ruin the quality of the paint and affect its drying time.

Painting with Oil on Dried Acrylics

If you choose to paint over acrylics, wait until the acrylics are fully dry. Acrylic paints take less time to dry compared to oil paints, but it is essential to ensure that the acrylic layer is dry before adding the oil paints. This ensures that the surface remains smooth and free from cracks. Oil paints have a harder consistency and take much longer to dry. Allowing the acrylic to dry thoroughly will prevent any potential damage to the paint.