Creating vibrant, dynamic elements for your mixed media art doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Acrylic skins—a hidden gem in the world of mixed media—can transform your projects with their vivid translucency and unique textures.
What Are Acrylic Skins?
Acrylic skins are thin, flexible sheets of dried acrylic paint combined with mediums like gloss gel or self-leveling gel. Once dried, they can be peeled off non-stick surfaces and used in collage or mixed media art, similar to decals.
Why You’ll Love Them:
They’re customizable: Choose any colors, patterns, or textures.
They’re flexible and durable: Perfect for layering and experimenting.
They reduce waste: Repurpose leftover paint for new creative elements.
Watch this video
Click For All Supplies Used In The Video
• Clear Plastic Measuring Cups
• Golden Heavy Gel Gloss Medium
• Liquitex Professional Matte Gel Medium
• Golden Fluid Acrylics – VanDyke Brown
• Golden Fluid Acrylics – Payne’s Gray
• Golden Fluid Acrylics – Green Gold
• Golden Fluid Acrylics – Zinc White
• Golden Fluid Acrylics – Primary Magenta
• Golden Fluid Acrylics – Teal
• Golden Fluid Acrylics – Green Gold
Materials You Need to Make Acrylic Skins
Before we dive into the process, here’s what you’ll need:
Acrylic Mediums:
Golden Soft Gel (Matte) or Liquitex Professional Matte Gel Medium
Non-Stick Surface:
White Poly Coated Freezer Paper or Brown Poly Coated Freezer Paper
Tools:
Electric Paint Mixer for smooth mixing
Step-by-Step: How to Make Acrylic Skins
Follow these easy steps to create your first skin.
1. Prepare Your Surface
Lay down freezer paper shiny-side up or use a silicone mat.
2. Mix Your Paint and Medium
Combine fluid acrylics with your chosen medium. For a translucent effect, use self-leveling gel or pouring medium.
Tip: Use an Electric Paint Mixer to avoid air bubbles.
3. Spread the Mixture
Use a Large Palette Knife or Skinny Brayer to spread the paint mixture evenly across the surface.
4. Let It Dry Completely
Allow the skin to dry overnight. Drying times vary based on medium thickness.
5. Peel It Off
Once dry, gently peel the acrylic skin from the non-stick surface.
How to Use Acrylic Skins in Your Art
Layer in Collages
Add translucent skins over text, painted papers, or photos for depth and vibrancy.
Cut Custom Shapes
Use scissors to cut shapes like flowers, leaves, or abstract forms.
Create Textured Accents
Make skins with thick mediums for added texture.
Overlay on Canvases:
Use skins to “audition” an idea before committing paint directly to your artwork.
…
Please Pin This To Your Pinterest Board
Tips for Beginners
Start small: Work on smaller surfaces until you get comfortable.
Try different mediums: Heavy gloss gel is perfect for textured skins, while pouring medium creates thin, flexible layers.
Don’t waste leftover paint: Use freezer paper palettes to turn excess paint into new acrylic skins!
FAQs About Acrylic Skins
Q: What are acrylic skins used for?
Acrylic skins are used in mixed media art and collages to add color, texture, and transparency. They’re versatile, easy to layer, and customizable.
Q: Can I use regular acrylic paint for acrylic skins?
Yes, but fluid acrylics work best due to their smoother consistency. Mix with mediums like gloss gel or self-leveling gel for best results.
Q: How do I store acrylic skins?
Roll them around a tube (glossy side in) or store flat between sheets of freezer paper to prevent sticking.
Q: How can I apply the acrylic skins to collage or a painting?
The best way to apply your acrylic skin to your project is to use the same medium you made the skin with. Apply the medium to the back of the skin (or directly to the canvas/paper), and press into place. You can also use any clear medium or adhesive to attach the skin.
Q: How long do acrylic skins take to dry?
Drying time depends on the medium and thickness. Allow at least 12-24 hours for the best results.
Q: Can I paint over acrylic skins?
Yes! You can add paint, ink, or details to dried skins for more dimension.
Q: Are acrylic skins durable?
When made with high-quality acrylic paints and mediums, skins are durable, flexible, and archival.
Final Touches
Acrylic skins are a simple yet powerful way to elevate your mixed media art. By combining vibrant colors, flexible layers, and a bit of experimentation, you’ll open up new possibilities for your creative work.
Ready to give it a try? Start small, play with textures, and see where it will take your art practice!
Question
Have you experimented with acrylic skins? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear how you’re using them in your work!
Leave a Reply