Best Paint Mediums & Additives of 2025

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Paint mediums and additives are essential tools for artists looking to enhance the quality and versatility of their paints. Mediums can be added to paint to modify its consistency, drying time, and texture, while additives can be used to alter the paint's color, opacity, and glossiness. Some popular mediums include acrylic gel medium, which can be used to create thick impasto textures, and glazing medium, which can be used to create transparent layers of color. Additives like flow improver can be added to help paints flow more easily, while retarder can slow down the drying time of acrylic paints. These products are a must-have for artists looking to experiment with different painting techniques and achieve unique effects.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

The Crafters Workshop Modeling Paste Medium Cover #TOP 1
The Crafters Workshop Modeling Paste Medium
ftb score rating icon 9.9
U.S. Art Supply Floetrol Additive Kit Cover #TOP 2
U.S. Art Supply Floetrol Additive Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pouring Masters Acrylic Pearlescent Medium Cover #TOP 3
Pouring Masters Acrylic Pearlescent Medium
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Paint Mediums & Additives

#TOP 1

The Crafters Workshop Modeling Paste Medium

TCW9005
White
8-oz.
The Crafters Workshop Modeling Paste Medium Cover
The Crafters Workshop Modeling Paste Medium, Surface Prep and Dimension Additive, Texture for Canvas, Paper, Wood or Paints, Provides Depth for Acrylic or Oils, Modeling Paste, 8-oz, White

The Crafters Workshop Modeling Paste TCW9005 is a thick and firm compound that helps you add structure, height, and volume to your project. The opaque matte coverage it provides adds density, depth, and flexibility. This modeling paste dries white and can be painted or sprayed with ink when dry. You can add acrylic paint or pigment to achieve your desired color.

What We Like
Excellent for creating texture
Easy to mix with acrylics
Dries bright white
Soft and easy to handle
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Requires multiple coats for coverage
Dries very hard
#TOP 2

U.S. Art Supply Floetrol Additive Kit

FLD6-Kit-DELUXE
U.S. Art Supply Floetrol Additive Kit Cover
U.S. Art Supply - 1 Quart Floetrol Additive Pouring Supply Paint Medium Deluxe Kit for Mixing, Epoxy, Resin - Silicone Oil,1 and 10 Ounce Plastic Cups, Mini Painting Stands, Sticks, Pallete Knifes

The U.S. Art Supply Pouring Kit is designed to help you create beautiful artwork with ease. The premium pouring medium enhances paint flow, allowing for smooth blending of colors, which is ideal for various pouring techniques. You'll appreciate the versatile mixing tools included, such as silicone oil for unique effects and multiple plastic cups for easy measurement and mixing. This kit is made from durable materials, ensuring that each component can handle different artistic applications. Whether you're just starting or are a seasoned artist, this comprehensive kit empowers you to unleash your creativity effortlessly.

What We Like
Great value for the kit
Includes almost everything needed
Helpful measurement cups included
Ideal for beginners
Encourages creative experimentation
What We Don't Like
Paints not included
Canvas not provided
#TOP 3

Pouring Masters Acrylic Pearlescent Medium

USA PM-732-QT
Clear
32-ounces
Pouring Masters Acrylic Pearlescent Medium Cover
Pouring Masters Professional Acrylic Pearlescent Mixing Effects Medium, 32 oz. (Quart) - Create Pearl Iridescent Metallic Effects, Improve Flow Consistency, Artist Techniques, Mix Art Acrylic Paint

The Pouring Masters Pearlescent Medium is a versatile acrylic pouring medium that adds a beautiful iridescent finish to your artwork. It enhances the flow and consistency of your paints, making it easier for you to achieve stunning pouring techniques. This medium works best with transparent and translucent colors, allowing you to create mesmerizing effects. You can also mix it with other acrylic paints or use it as a topcoat for added shimmer. Enjoy the convenience of transforming your art projects with this high-quality medium designed for artists like you.

What We Like
Beautiful shimmer effect
Mixes well with other paints
Smooth application
Great for topcoats
Enhances color depth
What We Don't Like
More glittery than pearlescent
Not completely clear finish
#TOP 4

Liquitex Masking Fluid, 118ml

7704
Masking Fluid
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Liquitex Masking Fluid, 118ml Cover
Liquitex Professional Effects Medium, 118ml (4-oz), Masking Fluid

Liquitex Masking Fluid is a versatile, colorless medium that helps you protect specific areas of your artwork while you paint. This latex-based liquid allows you to block off sections, ensuring that unwanted colors do not reach those areas. You can easily peel it off once your paint dries, leaving a clean surface underneath. To achieve the best results, use a suitable brush and remember to dip it in soapy water beforehand for easier cleanup. This product is perfect for artists looking to maintain sharp edges and clean lines in their paintings.

What We Like
Excellent quality
Easy to use
Good coverage
Professional finish
What We Don't Like
Thin consistency
Potential for leakage
#TOP 5

US Art Supply Modeling Paste Acrylic Medium

AM-5041-500
White
US Art Supply Modeling Paste Acrylic Medium Cover
U.S. Art Supply Modeling Paste for Acrylic Painting - 500ml Acrylic Texture Paste for Textured Art, Lightweight Flexible Acrylic Modeling Paste, Non-Toxic, Sandable, Mixable with Paint & Archival-Safe

US Art Paste is a lightweight, non-toxic modeling paste acrylic medium that dries to the hardness of stone. This versatile medium allows you to create three-dimensional, textured surfaces with excellent tooth and absorbency. Once thoroughly dry, you can sand or carve it. You can mix it with paint pigment or ink to create unique and personalized colors. The water-based, archival-safe formula makes it easy to clean up with just soap and water. US Art Paste is perfect for artists who want to add texture and depth to their paintings, sculptures, or mixed media projects.

What We Like
Great value for money
Large container with easy access
Soft and easy to manipulate
Holds shape well after application
What We Don't Like
Can become clumpy if worked too slowly
Requires stirring due to lumpiness
#TOP 6

U.S. Art Supply Acrylic Retarder Liquid

AM-404-4Z
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
U.S. Art Supply Acrylic Retarder Liquid Cover
U.S. Art Supply Acrylic Retarder Liquid - 4-Ounce - For Slowing Dry Times of Acrylic Paint for Pouring - Gives you more working time with your Pour

The Acrylic Retarder by U.S. Art Supply is a valuable additive designed to extend the drying time of acrylic paints. By incorporating this retarder into your paint, you gain extra time for pouring techniques, allowing for a smoother flow and reducing the risk of the paint drying too quickly on your palette. It enhances your ability to use wet-on-wet techniques, making it easier to blend colors and achieve detailed brushwork. This product is especially beneficial for larger pours, giving you the flexibility to create without the pressure of fast-drying paint.

What We Like
Prolongs drying time
Enhances blending ability
Allows for detailed highlights
Effective for acrylic nails
What We Don't Like
Can become slimy
May thicken on canvas
#TOP 7

U.S. Art Supply Clear Gel Medium Gloss Acrylic Medium

AM-5004-200
Clear
U.S. Art Supply Clear Gel Medium Gloss Acrylic Medium Cover
U.S. Art Supply Clear Gel Medium Gloss Acrylic Medium, 200ml - (6.7 Ounce) Tube - Adds Gloss to Your Acrylic Paint

U.S. Art Supply Gloss Gel Medium is a lightweight and non-toxic artist-quality clear acrylic gel medium that enhances the viscosity and gloss level of your acrylic paints. This gel medium is perfect for artists who want to create transparent colors, glaze, or use photo transfer techniques. It dries to a clear high gloss finish while retaining its applied shape. The gel medium is translucent when wet, making it easy to mix with your paint, and transparent when dry. With U.S. Art Supply Gloss Gel Medium, you can add depth and dimension to your artwork and achieve the desired level of transparency.

What We Like
High gloss finish
Easily mixes with paint
Quick drying time
Adds beautiful shine
What We Don't Like
Dries quickly, may clump
Inconsistent application
#TOP 8

TERLANS Fast Drying Oil Medium

Oil Medium
deep purple
Medium
TERLANS Fast Drying Oil Medium Cover
TERLANS Fast Drying Oil Painting Medium, 3.38 fl. oz. (100 ml) Flip-top cap included

The TERLANS Fast Drying Medium is designed to help you achieve quicker drying times for your oil colors. By adding just a few drops—up to 6% of the medium to your paint—you can significantly reduce drying time to just 1-2 days. This feature allows you to finish your artwork sooner and continue working without long interruptions. Additionally, this medium is compatible with a variety of oil colors from different brands, giving you flexibility in your choices. It also promotes smooth drying both on the surface and throughout the paint, ensuring a consistent finish in your projects.

What We Like
Well-sealed and packaged
Includes dropper cap
Economical usage
Good quality consistency
Smells normal for medium
What We Don't Like
Stronger smell than some brands
Not quick drying
#TOP 9

Ranger Texture Paste 4oz

320617
Original Version
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Ranger Texture Paste 4oz Cover
Ranger 320617 Texture Paste 4oz, Transparent Matte

The Ranger Texture Paste is a versatile art medium that lets you add depth and dimension to various surfaces. You can easily apply it using a palette knife, and it works wonderfully with stencils, allowing you to create precise shapes. For those looking to experiment, this paste can be customized by adding inks or paints after it dries, giving you the freedom to personalize your projects. Additionally, you can mix it with acrylic paints and other elements for unique textures. This product is perfect for artists who want to enhance their creative work.

What We Like
Easy to use
Good consistency
Works well with various techniques
Quick delivery
Great for texture in art
What We Don't Like
Not transparent enough for some uses
Can appear hazy on prints
#TOP 10

Bluebird Gum Arabic Watercolor Medium

BB-GumA
Transparent
Bluebird Gum Arabic Watercolor Medium Cover
Bluebird Gum Arabic 3.4 Fl Oz / 100ML - Watercolor Medium for Art

The Bluebird Gum Arabic is a versatile watercolor medium designed to enhance your painting experience. This pale solution helps control the spread of wet colors, allowing you to achieve precise effects. It also minimizes staining and extends drying time, giving you more flexibility while working. By adding a small amount, you can boost the transparency, brilliance, and gloss of your watercolors, ensuring your artwork stands out. You can easily dilute it with water to suit your needs, making it a practical choice for various artistic projects.

What We Like
Easy to use
Good quality product
Convenient liquid form
Precise measurement drops
Effective binder for pigments
What We Don't Like
Glossy finish
Requires trial and error
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 5 common painting mediums?

The five common painting mediums are acrylic, watercolor, oil, gouache, and ink. These mediums are popular among artists worldwide due to their versatility and ability to create various looks and styles.

2. Can I use water instead of pouring medium?

While you can use water as a substitute for pouring medium, it is not recommended if you want your artwork to have a professional finish and longevity. Water will dilute the acrylic characteristics of your paint, resulting in weakened colors and a washed-out appearance when the artwork is finished.

Editor's Notes

During our paint mediums & additive research, we found 24 paint mediums & additive products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 27,603 customer reviews through our big data system to write the paint mediums & additives list. We found that most customers choose paint mediums & additives with an average price of $20.21.

The paint mediums & additives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of paint mediums & additives, including The Crafter's Workshop, U.S. Art Supply, Pouring Masters, Liquitex, TERLANS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 66 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.

Paint Mediums & Additives Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand The Crafter's Workshop U.S. Art Supply Pouring Masters Liquitex U.S. Art Supply U.S. Art Supply U.S. Art Supply TERLANS Ranger BLUEBIRD
Color White - Clear Masking Fluid White - Clear deep purple - Transparent
Special Feature Texture-building capability, customizable color options - Pearlescent Finish, Non Toxic, Fast-Drying Washable Dries to the hardness of stone, Sandable/Carvable when dry Non Toxic Non Toxic - - Non Toxic
Item Volume - - 32 Fluid Ounces 4 Fluid Ounces 500 Milliliters 4 Fluid Ounces 200 Milliliters 100 Milliliters - 3.4 Fluid Ounces
Specific Uses For Product - - Painting on Canvas and Art Surfaces [OUTDOOR INDOOR] Art acrylic painting, pouring, blending colors, wet in wet techniques Mixing with acrylic paint, glazing, photo transfers, increasing viscosity, adding gloss, creating transparent colors, techniques requiring transparency Interior Art -
Size - - 32-ounces 4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) - 4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 6.76 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) Medium - 3.38 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Paint Type - - Acrylic Acrylic - Acrylic Acrylic Oil - Acrylic
Unit Count - - 32.0 Fluid Ounces 4.0 Fluid Ounces 16.9 Fluid Ounces 4 Fluid Ounces 6.76 Fl Oz - - -
Item Form - - - Liquid Paste - Gel Liquid Paste -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
Where to Buy