What is floetrol and what does it do?
Floetrol is a water-based paint additive that helps improve the workability of paint and flow like oil. Floetrol is not technically an acrylic pouring medium, and its original purpose was to make interior and exterior emulsion and acrylic paints (including coloured wood stains) work and flow more like oil-based paints and eliminate brush strokes.
However Floetrol has recently gained significant popularity amongst acrylic pouring artists as a cost-effective acrylic pouring medium alternative. Often the artist grade pouring mediums can come at a much higher cost, so Floetrol can be a good option if you’re just starting out with acrylic pouring or looking at creating large scale acrylic pours.
What are the benefits of using Floetrol instead of water?
Floetrol provides additional benefits over just water. Floetrol is a conditioner which means it enhances the qualities of the water based paint you’re using while also helping it to be thinner for easier application.
Whilst it has a transparent white color, Floetrol maintains the qualities of the paint and will not affect the color of your artwork.
On the other hand, adding water to your acrylic pour will thin the paint you are using and break down the binder that holds the paint together. This can lead to the acrylic paint flaking off on the canvas over time.
Related: How to Prevent Crazing in Acrylic Pours
How much Floetrol do I need for my acrylic pour?
The best ratio of Floetrol to acrylic paint will largely come down to experimentation and personal preferences. As a starting point, mix 1 part floetrol with 1 part acrylic paint. Stir slowly with a wooden stick until you reach a smooth consistency. When you lift the wooden stick out of the pouring mix, the paint should have a runny consistency.
How to buy Floetrol
Floetrol is available in quantities of 1 Quart (946 ml), and 1 Gallon (3.78 L) and can be easily purchased from sites like Amazon.
- 1 Quart (946 m) – check prices on Amazon
- 1 Gallon (3.78 L) – check prices on Amazon
You can also purchase Floetrol from Amazon as part of an acrylic pouring set!
Floetrol vs other pouring mediums
For a more detailed guide on choosing the best pouring medium for your acrylic pour, visit our guide here.