Pigment acrylic paint is a fast-drying paint made of pigment suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion. This emulsion acts as a binder, holding the pigment particles together and allowing the paint to adhere to surfaces. Besides pigment and binder, acrylic paints also contain additives such as plasticizers, silicone oils, defoamers, stabilizers, and sometimes metal soaps. Most are water-based, but become water-resistant once dry.
Understanding the Key Component: Pigment
The pigment is the granular solid that gives acrylic paint its color. These tiny particles are milled to a very fine size and don't dissolve in the binder; instead, they remain suspended, providing the paint's hue. Different pigments create different colors, and the quality and concentration of pigment significantly impact the paint's vibrancy, opacity, and overall quality. High-pigment paints, like those mentioned in various online sources such as Reddit discussions on mini-painting and artist forums, offer richer colors and better coverage. Examples of premium acrylic pigments include Azurite, Ultramarine Ash, and Lapis Lazuli. (https://www.naturalpigments.com/pigments/choose-by-medium/acrylic-pigments.html)
High-Pigment Acrylic Paints: Benefits and Examples
Many artists seek out high-pigment acrylic paints for their superior qualities. These paints often provide:
- Brighter, more intense colors: A higher concentration of pigment leads to richer, more saturated hues.
- Better opacity and coverage: Less paint is needed to achieve the desired color and hide the underlying surface.
- Improved lightfastness: High-quality pigments are less likely to fade over time.
Examples of brands and specific paints mentioned online as having high pigment concentration include:
- Ak Titanium Bold White
- Warcolours White
- Golden SoFlat
- Various professional-grade paints from Liquitex and Nova Color.
You can even create your own acrylic paint by combining pure powder pigment with acrylic medium. However, safety precautions like using a respirator and working in a well-ventilated area are crucial. (https://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/topic/how-to-use-pure-powder-pigment-in-acrylic-painting/)
