Acrylic Paints: How to Choose the Right Grade for Your Masterpiece (or Mess)

When it comes to acrylic painting, one of the first decisions you'll have to make is which type of paint to use. There are three main categories of acrylic paint: hobby, student, and professional grade. But what exactly is the difference between these types of paint, and which one is right for you?

First, let's start with hobby grade acrylic paint. This type of paint is typically the least expensive and is commonly found at craft stores and other retailers that sell art supplies. It's a great option for beginners or for those who only paint occasionally, as it's easy to work with and offers good coverage. However, hobby grade acrylics tend to have a lower pigment concentration and may not provide the same level of vibrancy and longevity as higher grade paints.

Next, there's student grade acrylic paint. As the name suggests, this type of paint is typically used by art students and is a step up from hobby grade in terms of quality and price. Student grade acrylics have a higher pigment concentration than hobby grade, which means they produce more vibrant colours and have better lightfastness (resistance to fading over time). They also tend to have a better consistency and are easier to blend than hobby grade paints.

Finally, there's professional grade acrylic paint. This is the highest quality acrylic paint available, and as such, it comes with a higher price tag. Professional grade acrylics have the highest pigment concentration of all three grades, which means they produce the most vibrant and longest-lasting colours. They also have a smooth, buttery consistency and are a favourite among professional artists.

I have used all three different types during my time learning to paint, painting as a serious hobby and then later painting to sell my work. The main difference that I found is in the versatility of professional grade paints. The high pigment concentration and reduction in filler means that you can create effects that are just not possible with poorer quality acrylic paints. I found it so much easier to glaze and layer acrylic paints once I started using professional quality.

Personally my favourite brand and type of acrylic paint is heavy body paints by Golden. They have a glorious buttery texture and vibrant colours. Since the quality is so high and the pigment so concentrated, a little goes a long way. Since using professional grade paint, I will never be able to go back to using student or hobby paints.

So, which type of acrylic paint is right for you? It ultimately comes down to your level of experience and how often you plan to paint. If you're just starting out or only paint occasionally, hobby grade acrylics are a great option. They're affordable and easy to use, and they'll allow you to experiment and learn without making a significant investment. For art students or those who paint more frequently, student grade acrylics are a good choice. They provide better quality and performance than hobby grade, without breaking the bank. And for professional artists or those who demand the very best, professional grade acrylics are the way to go.

However, if you have the ability to splurge on professional grade paints, I would encourage you to give them a go. If you can afford it, you will not regret the investment! Furthermore, if you are ever planning on selling your paintings, it is important that they stand the test of time for your collectors.

No matter which type of acrylic paint you choose, the most important thing is to have fun and experiment. With practice and patience, you'll be able to create beautiful works of art with any type of acrylic paint.