Uses for Acrylic & Enamel Paint
Acrylic paint is a very high quality paint used primarily by artists and artisans. Enamel paint refers most frequently to a finish, and can be found in oil-based or water-based versions. Enamel is a durable and usually shiny finish that is protective and resistant to stain.
Acrylic Paint Uses
Acrylic paints are sold in tubes at artist supply stores and some better hobby stores. They are water-based and can be mixed with a range of gels and mediums to make them shiny or matte, thin or viscous. They are expensive compared to industrial grade paints, as they have a lot of pigment, which is the most expensive part of the paint. Developed in the 1930s, they are in common use now that they have been determined to be archival. They are used for decorative painting as well as fine art paintings, as they can be easily applied to interior walls and are richer and longer lasting than regular interior paint. They can also be applied to paper or virtually any other surface as they have good tack. They should not be used for things like body painting, as some contain minerals (like cobalt or cadmium) which can accumulate in the body and cause health problems.
Enamel Paint Uses
As they are tough and durable, enamel paints are frequently used to protect surfaces or in high traffic areas. Polyurethane floor enamels can protect a floor from things like tire marks or oil stains, and are thus good for garages or similar areas. Enamel paints are also good for outdoor equipment such as tractors or tools, as the enamel finish is more water-repellent than flat paints. Enamel paints pour easily and have a good pigment load; for this reason they have been used by artists, such as Jackson Pollock, for paintings, although their archival qualities are not as good as better oil paints.
Preparation of Surfaces
When using any paint, for superior results the substrate has to be ready. If there is loose debris such as plaster or other material, it will eventually fall off, taking the paint with it. For acrylic in fine art usages, cover a surface or panel with three coats of acrylic gesso prior to painting to seal the fibers in the canvas or linen. Acrylic can be applied normally over interior walls after a regular primer is applied, or over a coat of latex paint. For enamels, remove all rust and other contaminants before painting. For floors, a power wash is a good idea if feasible.
