Best Acrylic Paint Set Reviews 2018

The prices of acrylic paint sets vary depending on the number of colors in the set, the quality of the paint, the brand and other features that it offers. You can get a basic acrylic paint set for as little as $20, and a professional set for $70 or more. You can expect the prices to fluctuate based on the above factors, and on other unknown or unforeseen variables.

In the course of our research, we came across some cheap acrylic paint sets, but we didn't feature them because they do not measure up to our standards of quality as the featured sets do.

Painting with acrylics, like every form of fine arts, requires the right supplies to get the best out of it. Before you embark on shopping for an acrylic paint set, there are features that you need to look for to ensure that you get the best value for your money. These features include the following:

• Consistency – This is also referred to as the thickness or lightness of the body
• Durability – How long will it last after painting?
  
• Colors Include in Set - This is necessary, so you know what you have to work with
• Drying Time – The length of time it takes to dry is also key
• Versatility – What surfaces can it be painted on, and what tools can you use with it?
• Quality – There are two grades: professional grade and student grade
• Safety Certification – It is important that the product you choose has EN71-3 and ASTM D-4236 certification
• Type of Container – Paints can either come in tubes or jars

Acrylic paints are specialized products, so you shouldn't just stroll into a craft store to buy them if you don't have any knowledge about what you want. Before shopping for a paint set, there are many things to consider. Determine the expertise level of the user. If you are buying for yourself, of course, you'll know your expertise level, but if you are buying as a gift item, it won't hurt to find out the level of the recipient if you don't know.

The quality of an acrylic paint set is categorized by student/beginner or professional/artist. Professional sets have a wider variety of colors that have high pigment integrity and last longer. If you are a beginner on a budget, it's advisable to get the student grade sets. They cost less, though they have lower pigment integrity and durability and have fewer colors. If you don't spend too much money on a set, it frees you to experiment and explore all that's in your imagination.

Once you have graduated to the point where you can place more than sentimental value on them, you have to prepare to spend more on supplies. The professional sets have more vivid colors, and a consistency that makes mixing the colors easier. The colors can also be blended and layered more easily.

One important factor that must not be overlooked is health and safety certification. Paints are chemicals, and you have to ensure that the product you are buying or planning to buy is safe and child-friendly. The seal of authentication for products made in America is ASTM d4236, in compliance with Labeling Hazardous Art Materials Act. You don’t want a product that may trigger or escalate health issues.

The type of art you want to create will determine the consistency or thickness you'll be looking for in a paint set. If you are doing delicate work, such as stenciling or staining or using some watercolor techniques, look for a paint set that has light or fluid consistency. For work that involves peaks and strokes, you'll want a thick body with buttery consistency that will retain the peaks and brush strokes. There is an in-between consistency, and this can be achieved by mixing in other acrylic mediums to get what you want. Find out whether the product you are thinking of purchasing can be mixed with other acrylic mediums.

Knowing the drying time of your paint is also essential. While some artists like acrylic paints that are fast-drying, others don’t. There are some projects that require slow drying. The problem with having your work dry quickly is that the paint might keep drying out on your brush, and you may also not be able to successfully mix and blend your colors on your palette.

Acrylic paints with thick body usually come in tubes or jars. If you are just starting out as an artist, it won't make much financial sense to buy the jars. You'll need to experiment with different colors and brands, so tubes are a more cost-effective option. As you gain experience, you'll discover which colors you use the most and which brands are your favorite, and you can go ahead and buy paint in jars.