How to Paint - Acrylics

How to paint with acrylics is a question that really does not have one definite answer.
There are many ways to paint with acrylic paints.
Your end results with acrylic paints can resemble watercolor, oil or somewhere in-between.
If you would like to paint on paper, then just use plenty of water and water-down the paint and use it like watercolor.
If you prefer to paint on canvas and would like an oil look, use the paint straight from the tube and apply it thickly.
As far as techniques, there are numerous techniques that work especially well with this medium.
One of the reasons that I like this medium is that you can paint in layers.
This means building your shadows or light areas on top of previous layers.
The paint dries very quickly making this technique very easily accomplished.
Another fun technique is to blend the paints right on the canvas.
To do this, simply pick up the colors you are working with on the brush and apply to the canvas.
Blend as much or as little as you like.
Try this technique with water areas and watch the color variations create a realistic look.
Another effective technique is called dry-brushing.
This is done by picking up a little paint on a dry brush and blending it onto the canvas.
It works especially well when painting something like weathered wood, mist at the base of a tree line, or sun rays.
The best way to learn how to paint with acrylics is to just start painting.
If your desire is to paint portraits or landscapes, it might be worth your while to purchase some instructional material.
If abstract is more your style, then just go for it! Either way, enjoy yourself and enjoy painting.