The BIG Question…Floetrol or no Floetrol? (2024)

The BIG Question…Floetrol or no Floetrol?

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I have always used Floetrol in my art pieces. When I first learned about Acrylic Paint Pouring, I quickly learned that there is no one recipe to get acrylic paints to a fluid consistency, and I learned that using only water is not always a good idea. I have tried several pouring medium options but am always returning to my original recipe, which includes Floetrol.

What is Floetrol?

Floetrol is a paint conditioner added to paint to improve its flow and workability. It is specifically designed to reduce brush and roller marks and increase the paint’s open time, allowing more time to work with the paint before it dries. Floetrol is typically used with water-based paint and can be added to interior and exterior paint. It is not recommended for use with oil-based paint.

Many artists have had problems using Floetrol. What is your experience? Comment on the post and let me know!

What is a substitute for Floetrol?

A common substitute for Floetrol is water. Adding a small amount of water to paint can help to improve its flow and workability. However, it is important to note that adding too much water can thin the paint and affect its ability to adhere to the surface properly. Another alternative is using a paint additive, such as Penetrol, which serves a similar purpose as Floetrol in improving the paint’s flow and workability. It can be used with both oil-based and water-based paints. Another option is to use a paint extender or paint conditioner, which can be found at most paint or home improvement stores.

What do you use Floetrol for?

Floetrol is typically used to improve the flow and workability of paint. It is added to paint to reduce brush and roller marks and to increase the paint’s open time, which allows for more time to work with the paint before it dries. This can be particularly useful when painting large surfaces, such as walls and ceilings, as it makes applying the paint smoother and more efficient.

Floetrol is also commonly used for faux finishing techniques, such as sponging and rag rolling, as it helps to create a more even and consistent finish. Additionally, it can be used to improve the paint flow when using a spray gun for application. It can be used with interior and exterior water-based paints, but it is not recommended for use with oil-based paint.

What happens if you use too much Floetrol?

If you use too much Floetrol, the paint may become too thin and watery, which can lead to a number of problems. This can cause the paint to lose its ability to adhere properly to the surface, resulting in poor coverage and an uneven finish. Additionally, using too much Floetrol can cause the paint to dry too quickly, making it difficult to work with. This can also cause brush and roller marks issues, as the paint may not flow as smoothly as it should.

Using too much Floetrol can also reduce the paint’s color intensity and hiding power, which can affect the final appearance of the painted surface. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended mixing ratio and start with small amounts, gradually increasing until you achieve the desired consistency. Too much Floetrol can also affect the paint’s drying time and curing process, which can cause issues with the final finish. It is also important to note that using too much Floetrol can cause the paint to lose its ability to level, leading to brush marks and an uneven finish.

The BIG Question…Floetrol or no Floetrol? (2)

Does Floetrol create cells in acrylic pouring?

Floetrol can be used to create cells in acrylic pouring, but it does not create cells independently. Cells are created by the interaction of different densities of paint, how the paint is poured and manipulated, and the surface it is poured on. Adding Floetrol to the paint can help create a more fluid consistency, making it easier to manipulate the paint and encourage the formation of cells.

How much Floetrol do I add to acrylic for pouring?

The amount of Floetrol you should add to acrylic paint for pouring will depend on the consistency of the paint you are using and the desired effect. A general rule of thumb is to start with a 1:1 ratio of Floetrol to paint and then adjust as needed. You can then gradually increase the amount of Floetrol until you achieve the desired consistency. Some artists may use as much as 2-3 parts Floetrol to 1 part paint, while others may use less.

It’s important to note that the consistency you aim for should be pourable but not too runny and able to hold the peaks and retain the cells. It’s also important to remember that the type of paint, the surface you’re pouring on, and the humidity and temperature of the environment can also affect the outcome. It’s recommended to start with small amounts and to test the paint before using it on a final piece. It’s also recommended to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific mixing ratios and use the recommended amount for the best result.

How do artists use Floetrol?

Artists may use Floetrol to improve paint’s flow and workability, particularly when working with acrylic paints. It can be added to the paint to make it more fluid and easier to control, benefiting techniques such as glazing and blending. Floetrol can also create fine lines and details and help prevent the paint from drying too quickly.

Additionally, some artists use Floetrol in conjunction with pouring techniques to create cells and other interesting textures in their paintings. It is commonly used in fluid art to create more fluid and smoother pours, it also helps to prevent the paint from separating and creating unwanted texture on the final piece.

It is important to note that Floetrol is not recommended to be used with oil-based paint, and it is suggested to test the paint with the medium before using it on a final piece.

What other artists are saying about Floetrol

Stop using Floetrol! It mutes the colors and drys dull. Artists Loft pouring medium keeps colors true and dries to a beautiful glossy finish. Floetrol is also acidic and will cause your painting to turn yellow over time. ~ Meshka N.
Liquitex pouring medium is also a good substitute for Floetrol, and its artist quality, so there is no yellowing, archival and you can buy it in gloss, so there are no dull colors. Varnishing your piece when dry also brings the color back. If you use too much Floetrol, it’ll still look dull, though. ~ Robyn N.
I use US Floetrol only, too & none of my pieces dry dull 🫣, especially after I varnish them; they’re even more vibrant. ~ Chance B.
If you let a blob of Floetrol dry, you will see it is not clear. It is rather foggy. It will happen every time when you use Floetrol. It mutes colors and dulls the finish. Meshka N.
Sounds like people have answered overall, so I won’t add much. A cost-effective way to get what you are looking for is a mix of Floetrol and pouring medium. It does not take a lot of pouring medium added to do this – lots of people use 1/4 Pouring medium to Floetrol. Remember that the beautiful glossy painting you are looking for will come when wet and when it is varnished. The Floetrol extends your paint as a fluid, and the pouring medium binds the paint molecules together to keep the color vivid. ~ Andrea S.
I prefer all gloss or satin paints. I add a little Floetrol and a few drops of silicone oil. Never had my colors changed. ~ Denise W.
Floetrol dries matte. Applying a varnish, resin, or resin alternative after the paint has fully cured will bring back the vibrancy of your paints. Otherwise, you can use a gloss pouring medium instead of Floetrol. ~ Beth R.
I use white glue and water, it lightens the color when wet then the glue dries clear, leaving the color matted. As soon as you varnish, its colors will pop again. ~ Amber R.
I mix 1 part of good quality pouring medium with 2 parts Floetrol. Then use three parts of this mix with 1 part of paint. Then water down to the thickness required. ~ Pauline D.

What is your experience with using Floetrol? Comment on this post and let us know!