Tree of Life Acrylic Paint Pour and Swipe Technique 9 To 12

Canvas: You'll need a canvas. 8 x 8, 10 x 8, 10 x 10, 12 x 12, 12 x 16, etc. Just keep in mind the larger the canvas the more paint medium and paint you will need.

Acrylic Paint: Please select at least 3 colors to prepare in class.  You will need approximately 2 ounces for your base color and much less for the other colors.

Pouring Medium: Approximately 10 ounces of pouring medium is required. You can use Floetrol, modge- podge, glue or any other pouring medium suitable for acrylic paint. 

*If you don't have pouring medium, you can use plain water, although the effects may be slightly less pronounced.

*If you choose glue as a paint medium please prepare prior to class by mixing one part glue to one part water at 60:40 ratio. 60% glue to 40% water. (Elmer’s works fine or any white school glue)

Swipe tool: you will need a tool for swiping. Paper towel or stiff paper works well. I use leftover ad cards from the mail. You could use business cards, cardstock paper, or anything else you have around the house.  I suggest bringing different kinds of tools and sampling techniques to see which one you like the best!

Cell Activator:  If you would like your painting to have cells, you'll need a cell activator.  Only one option for cell activation is needed. Use the following:

Silicone: Can be purchased from local hobby shops or online platforms like Amazon.
Coconut Hair Serum: Ensure it's in liquid form, not coconut oil.
Dish Soap: A small amount of dish soap will also work.
Rubbing Alcohol: Another alternative for cell activation.

Extra Plastic Cups, spoons, and stir sticks for mixing paint. 

Protecting You and Your Work Space: Paint pouring can get a little messy. Please make sure to cover your work surface, wear a smock or old large T-shirt. Gloves if you don't want to get your hands dirty. You can also use a paint box or an old box that fits your canvas to collect the paint runoff.