9 answers
Girls
Student
Canada Bay, New South Wales, Australia
15
Questions
Asked
721 views
Are oil painting and acrylic painting the same, or do they work differently Which one is better for making cool art? ?
Also one more thing I know a little about oil painting, but if I start painting more, can I sell them? Or what else can I do with my paintings besides just hanging them on my wall?
9 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1334
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Heyo,
Well, here is a little of the lowdown which I hope helps.
Oil painting and acrylic painting are like two different rides at the art theme park. Oils are the slow, luxurious cruise—rich colors that blend like butter, letting you work at your own chill pace. They take their sweet time drying, which means you can rework them endlessly, but they do need a bit of extra cleanup and some old-school solvents.
Acrylics, on the other hand, are like the roller coaster—fast, energetic, and super forgiving. They dry quickly, so you can layer and experiment without waiting forever. Cleanup is as easy as a splash of water, and you can jump right into a new idea if one doesn’t work out.
Which one is better for making cool art? That really depends on your vibe. If you love a laid-back process and deep, blendy color journeys, go with oil. If you’re into rapid-fire creativity and don’t want to be slowed down by drying times, acrylic is your pal. Both can create amazing art—it’s all about what clicks with you.
Now, about selling your art or doing more with your paintings: absolutely, you can sell them! Beyond just hanging them on your wall, you can showcase your work online on social media, join art fairs or local galleries, or even do commissions. You might also consider turning your art into prints, stickers, or merchandise. Basically, your paintings can be a ticket to a whole world of opportunities—whether it’s getting your work out there, making some cash, or just spreading some creative vibes. So, dive in, experiment, and have fun with it—your art adventure awaits!
All the best girls hope you get it to awesomeness!😎
Well, here is a little of the lowdown which I hope helps.
Oil painting and acrylic painting are like two different rides at the art theme park. Oils are the slow, luxurious cruise—rich colors that blend like butter, letting you work at your own chill pace. They take their sweet time drying, which means you can rework them endlessly, but they do need a bit of extra cleanup and some old-school solvents.
Acrylics, on the other hand, are like the roller coaster—fast, energetic, and super forgiving. They dry quickly, so you can layer and experiment without waiting forever. Cleanup is as easy as a splash of water, and you can jump right into a new idea if one doesn’t work out.
Which one is better for making cool art? That really depends on your vibe. If you love a laid-back process and deep, blendy color journeys, go with oil. If you’re into rapid-fire creativity and don’t want to be slowed down by drying times, acrylic is your pal. Both can create amazing art—it’s all about what clicks with you.
Now, about selling your art or doing more with your paintings: absolutely, you can sell them! Beyond just hanging them on your wall, you can showcase your work online on social media, join art fairs or local galleries, or even do commissions. You might also consider turning your art into prints, stickers, or merchandise. Basically, your paintings can be a ticket to a whole world of opportunities—whether it’s getting your work out there, making some cash, or just spreading some creative vibes. So, dive in, experiment, and have fun with it—your art adventure awaits!
All the best girls hope you get it to awesomeness!😎
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
onaji
Wow thank you this is amazing really helpful and honestly really undrstaanding thank you again Dr. H as always.
Girls
You're so welcome Onaji! I'm really glad it resonated with you. Keep going because you're on your way to something amazing! 🤗
Dr H
You're very welcome! I'm so glad you found the advice helpful. Always happy to support you, and I'm here whenever you need it. Keep shining always Girls!
Dr H
Keep shining for us too Dr H. We all love hearing your insights.
Girls
Could you recommend any specific blending techniques or resources that are especially helpful for beginners working with oils?
Girls
Thanks a lot Girls, love hearing your questions always curiosity is a step to learning something big! For beginners working with oil paints, blending can be tricky but really rewarding once you get the hang of it. So one I can say is... Wet-on-Wet (Alla Prima): This is a great technique for beginners. You work while the paint is still wet, blending the colors directly on the canvas. It allows for smooth transitions and soft edges, perfect for creating realistic textures.
Dr H
2. Glazing: Applying thin layers of paint over dry layers (each one a glaze) can help you achieve smooth transitions and deep, luminous colors. Make sure each layer is completely dry before applying the next one.
3. Using a Soft Brush: A softer, round brush can help create smoother blends. Use circular motions to blend the paint, working from dark to light shades, or vice versa.
4. Mediums for Blending: Experiment with mixing mediums such as linseed oil or a slow-drying medium. These can help you control the paint's flow and drying time, making it easier to blend.
5. Scumbling: This is a dry brushing technique where you apply a thin, dry layer of paint over a textured surface. It’s great for subtle transitions and adding depth to your painting.
Dr H
You can also see these helpful Resources:
1. YouTube Tutorials: Channels like "The Art Sherpa" and "Lachri Fine Art" have beginner-friendly tutorials that show how to blend oils effectively.
2. Books: "Oil Painting For Dummies" by Anita Marie Giddings and "The Oil Painting Book" by Bill Creevy are great beginner guides for understanding blending techniques in oil painting.
3. Workshops and Classes: Websites like Skillshare or Udemy offer online painting courses. Some focus specifically on oil blending techniques for beginners.
Dr H
4. Artists' Blogs and Forums: Websites like WetCanvas have great communities where you can ask questions and get advice from more experienced oil painters.
Starting with basic techniques and practicing blending will build your confidence, and with some patience, you’ll see a marked improvement in your work!
Dr H
Isaac Oduro
Graphic Designer and a Front-end developer
8
Answers
Kumasi, Ashanti Region, Ghana
Updated
Isaac’s Answer
So Oil painting and acrylic painting are not the same—they differ in composition, drying time, texture, and techniques. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Oil paints* are made with pigments suspended in oil (usually linseed oil). They have a rich, buttery consistency and are known for their depth and luminosity.
- **Acrylic paints** are water-based, with pigments suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion. They are versatile and dry to a plastic-like finish.
Drying Time**:
- **Oil paints** dry very slowly, which allows for blending and reworking over days or even weeks. This is great for detailed, layered work but requires patience.
- **Acrylics** dry quickly, often within minutes. This is ideal for fast-paced work but can make blending challenging.
*Texture and Finish**:
- **Oil paints** offer a smooth, glossy finish and can be layered to create rich, dimensional effects. They’re great for realistic or traditional art.
- **Acrylics** can mimic oils with the right mediums but often have a flatter, more matte finish. They’re flexible and can be used on various surfaces.
*Techniques**:
- **Oils** are better for techniques like glazing, impasto, and fine detail work due to their slow drying time.
- **Acrylics** are great for bold, graphic styles, mixed media, and experimental techniques. They can also be thinned with water for watercolor-like effects.
*Ease of Use**:
- **Acrylics** are more beginner-friendly—they’re easier to clean (just water) and less toxic (no solvents needed).
- **Oils** require solvents (like turpentine) for cleaning and thinning, which can be harsh and require proper ventilation.
*Durability**:
- Both are durable if done correctly, but oils are known for their longevity and resistance to fading over centuries. Acrylics are also long-lasting but haven’t been around as long to test their archival quality.
However, It depends on your style and goals: **oil painting** if you want rich, traditional, or highly detailed work with a classic feel. **acrylic painting** if you prefer versatility, speed, and modern, bold, or experimental art.
Both can create "cool" art—it’s about how you use them! If you’re a beginner, start with acrylics to get comfortable, then explore oils if you’re drawn to their unique qualities.
Oil paints* are made with pigments suspended in oil (usually linseed oil). They have a rich, buttery consistency and are known for their depth and luminosity.
- **Acrylic paints** are water-based, with pigments suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion. They are versatile and dry to a plastic-like finish.
Drying Time**:
- **Oil paints** dry very slowly, which allows for blending and reworking over days or even weeks. This is great for detailed, layered work but requires patience.
- **Acrylics** dry quickly, often within minutes. This is ideal for fast-paced work but can make blending challenging.
*Texture and Finish**:
- **Oil paints** offer a smooth, glossy finish and can be layered to create rich, dimensional effects. They’re great for realistic or traditional art.
- **Acrylics** can mimic oils with the right mediums but often have a flatter, more matte finish. They’re flexible and can be used on various surfaces.
*Techniques**:
- **Oils** are better for techniques like glazing, impasto, and fine detail work due to their slow drying time.
- **Acrylics** are great for bold, graphic styles, mixed media, and experimental techniques. They can also be thinned with water for watercolor-like effects.
*Ease of Use**:
- **Acrylics** are more beginner-friendly—they’re easier to clean (just water) and less toxic (no solvents needed).
- **Oils** require solvents (like turpentine) for cleaning and thinning, which can be harsh and require proper ventilation.
*Durability**:
- Both are durable if done correctly, but oils are known for their longevity and resistance to fading over centuries. Acrylics are also long-lasting but haven’t been around as long to test their archival quality.
However, It depends on your style and goals: **oil painting** if you want rich, traditional, or highly detailed work with a classic feel. **acrylic painting** if you prefer versatility, speed, and modern, bold, or experimental art.
Both can create "cool" art—it’s about how you use them! If you’re a beginner, start with acrylics to get comfortable, then explore oils if you’re drawn to their unique qualities.
h g
design, research
1
Answer
Tehran, Tehran Province, Iran
Updated
h’s Answer
Acrylic just dries rapidly and ready for further processing, despite oil, that's a matter of technic. Coolness is a matter of art and design in the content you represent in paintings; both decisions are personal. Selling is a matter of promotion and power to communicate with market sector, agents, reps, buyers, etc. this is a social one. You can do either, both or non. Winning in the first two makes you an artist, in third one a celebrity. I wish you most as far as your mood satisfies best.
Olivia Benson
graphic design
1
Answer
Saint Charles, Missouri
Updated
Olivia’s Answer
Acrylics are easier in my opinion for beginner painters. Oil paintings however are better if you are painting for a long time and need time to blend. Oil paint dries over a long period of time so you can come back after days and still blend your painting. While acrylic dries after about 30 minutes. It’s all depending on what you’re trying to achieve and your preference.
Thanks for your encouragement!
Girls
Young Ah Ahn
Caricature Artist
4
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Young Ah’s Answer
If you continue to do art, you can have an opportunity to sell your work, but selling art is not easy. However, you may persist: For example you may study basic art concepts and practice drawing, painting , and many art forms, which could help you create your portfolio. I recommend you consider going to art school or college if you want to have your art career. Of course, even though one doesn't have a bachelor of fine art, one can be an artist. However, it is a great plan to go to art college, which will help you build your artistic career. Then you can participate in an exhibition, then you also sell your work.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Girls
Christopher Mckiernan
2D/3D Character/ Motion Graphics Animator/ digital Artist, Background Artist
14
Answers
Mount Olive Township, New Jersey
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Oil Painting and acrylic painting is definitely not the same.
They are two different substances. Acrylic is more mass produced for amateur artists. While oil has been around since the 1300's. Oil Painting is much better if you want to bring your work to whole other level.
It is more expensive though, and you might have buy other substances such as paint remover and linseed oil. Its also very messy.
But oil paint is for serious painters.
They are two different substances. Acrylic is more mass produced for amateur artists. While oil has been around since the 1300's. Oil Painting is much better if you want to bring your work to whole other level.
It is more expensive though, and you might have buy other substances such as paint remover and linseed oil. Its also very messy.
But oil paint is for serious painters.
Thanks for the help.
Girls
Eda Korkuter
I work in the museum industry as a designer and exhibition assistant.
16
Answers
Izmir, Turkey
Updated
Eda’s Answer
Oil and acrylic painting are different. Oils take longer to dry and blend smoothly, while acrylics dry fast and are more versatile. Neither is "better" for cool art. It depends on your style and what you want to succeed. As the others mentioned you can also combine both to show different textures and emotions in your creations.
If you start painting more, you can definitely sell your work. You can also gift them, exhibit them or even turn them into prints and merch. Lots of possibilities beyond you can discover by creating and trying more and more.
If you start painting more, you can definitely sell your work. You can also gift them, exhibit them or even turn them into prints and merch. Lots of possibilities beyond you can discover by creating and trying more and more.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Girls
Myles Hunt
Visual Artist & Screenwriter
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Myles’s Answer
I like to play around with both when I can as each offer a unique sense of play when creating. Since I have a dog, I try to limit the fume exposure by using acrylic indoors. When using oils, I tend to paint outside and let dry so the fumes can lessen.
As for art style, all mediums can tap into various styles depending on what you wish to make. Oftentimes you can combine oil and acrylic paint in your works to showcase a textured dynamic that is both fun to create and view. I say play around with both and determine your preference. Maybe you could paint the same subject matter twice using one or the other and see what you like best?
Creating is mostly play, so play!
As for art style, all mediums can tap into various styles depending on what you wish to make. Oftentimes you can combine oil and acrylic paint in your works to showcase a textured dynamic that is both fun to create and view. I say play around with both and determine your preference. Maybe you could paint the same subject matter twice using one or the other and see what you like best?
Creating is mostly play, so play!
Thank you for giving me advice.
Girls
Kim Matthews
Graphic Production Designer and Sculptor
47
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hello again!
Sales are tough. I wouldn't count on them unless you have a relationship with someone who can show your work, bring in customers, and so on. But that's a long way down the road and I wouldn't count on sales to address your storage concerns. Some now world-famous artists sold very little of their work during their lifetimes.
If you're painting on pre-stretched canvases, canvas boards, or cradled panels, you can paint over them if you don't like the results, so that will help keep work from piling up and save money too. You're better off investing in quality media than buying cheap brushes and paints, which are harder to use, and you'll end up using more of them. Also, if you paint something you really love and want to keep forever, there's a good chance the painting will fade or discolor if you used cheap materials. But storage is definitely an issue. I have a friend who makes small wall-hung and freestanding sculptures, and she has hundreds of pieces in a storage space she rents. I make small sculptures and drawings, and my work is all over my house, including several boxes in my guest bedroom.
You can also paint on paper in water-based media like gouache (opaque watercolor), transparent watercolor, and ink, and store those works in a portfolio or flat file, so they'll take up less room. You can use acrylic on paper too, and using acrylic gouache with watercolor is a great way to keep your colors from running together. Traditional watercolors will activate when rewetted, so using the two media together will help you have more control--and less frustration as a beginner. I'd recommend looking at paintings online, or better yet, in real life, and take notes about the media used in each. This will help you get a better idea of where to start.
Finally, when thinking about making art, there are environmental and health considerations to take into account too--some of which have been discussed here. When you clean out your brushes and trays, where does that leftover paint and solvent go?
There's lots to think about, but you don't have to figure everything out and decide all at once. Take your time, and ask for help to break your explorations into manageable chunks. The harder you push yourself in experimentation, the more likely it is that you'll get results you don't like, so it's important to find ways to work so you can keep feeling good about your progress through the ups and downs. Cheers!
Sales are tough. I wouldn't count on them unless you have a relationship with someone who can show your work, bring in customers, and so on. But that's a long way down the road and I wouldn't count on sales to address your storage concerns. Some now world-famous artists sold very little of their work during their lifetimes.
If you're painting on pre-stretched canvases, canvas boards, or cradled panels, you can paint over them if you don't like the results, so that will help keep work from piling up and save money too. You're better off investing in quality media than buying cheap brushes and paints, which are harder to use, and you'll end up using more of them. Also, if you paint something you really love and want to keep forever, there's a good chance the painting will fade or discolor if you used cheap materials. But storage is definitely an issue. I have a friend who makes small wall-hung and freestanding sculptures, and she has hundreds of pieces in a storage space she rents. I make small sculptures and drawings, and my work is all over my house, including several boxes in my guest bedroom.
You can also paint on paper in water-based media like gouache (opaque watercolor), transparent watercolor, and ink, and store those works in a portfolio or flat file, so they'll take up less room. You can use acrylic on paper too, and using acrylic gouache with watercolor is a great way to keep your colors from running together. Traditional watercolors will activate when rewetted, so using the two media together will help you have more control--and less frustration as a beginner. I'd recommend looking at paintings online, or better yet, in real life, and take notes about the media used in each. This will help you get a better idea of where to start.
Finally, when thinking about making art, there are environmental and health considerations to take into account too--some of which have been discussed here. When you clean out your brushes and trays, where does that leftover paint and solvent go?
There's lots to think about, but you don't have to figure everything out and decide all at once. Take your time, and ask for help to break your explorations into manageable chunks. The harder you push yourself in experimentation, the more likely it is that you'll get results you don't like, so it's important to find ways to work so you can keep feeling good about your progress through the ups and downs. Cheers!
Thanks for the help.
onaji
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Girls
Could you share more about how you organize your workspace and manage your supplies, especially if space is limited?
Girls
Glad to help. I have two work tables in my studio: a permanent one for computers, and one that's made of two folding sawhorses with a couple of pieces of masonite on top, and below I store pieces of foam and other supplies. I have shelves for books, art supplies, and sculpture, and tubs for paintbrushes, boxes of paints sorted by type, a bucket of scissors, and so on.
Most painters I've known had at least one set of flat files to hold paints, brushes, works on paper, etc., with a board on top to work on. They also have vertical storage. As you work, you'll develop ways to manage your studio to maximize efficiency and productivity.
Kim Matthews
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