MAPICan You Thin Acrylic Paint With Water?
Liquitex permits water as an acrylic paint thinner but warns against adding more than 25% water under its guidance. Excess water can leave too little acrylic binder to make a stable film. When more fluidity is needed, Liquitex recommends acrylic medium instead of simply adding more water.
Yes, within the limit Liquitex gives: no more than 25% water for the acrylic paint covered by its guidance; use acrylic medium for greater dilution.
yes
The answer
Liquitex says acrylic paint can be thinned with water, but recommends no more than 25% water for the acrylics covered by its guidance.
Why
Liquitex explains that excessive water can dilute the acrylic polymer too far to form a stable paint film. For more substantial thinning, it recommends an acrylic medium rather than additional water.
When it is usually OK
- A modest amount of water is needed for a Liquitex acrylic application.
- The dilution remains within the manufacturer’s stated water limit.
When you should not
- Do not assume more than 25% water is recommended by Liquitex.
- Do not apply that brand-specific percentage to every acrylic formula without checking its instructions.
Risks and exceptions
- Do not assume more than 25% water is recommended by Liquitex.
Best practice
Use small amounts of water within the applicable product guidance.
Alternatives
- Choose an acrylic medium when you need more fluid paint while maintaining the binder.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Liquitex limit water?
Liquitex explains that excessive water can dilute the acrylic polymer too far to form a stable paint film. For more substantial thinning, it recommends an acrylic medium rather than additional water.
Is acrylic medium different from water?
Yes. Liquitex describes acrylic medium as a way to thin paint while keeping acrylic binder in the mix.
Is the 25% limit universal?
No. It is the Liquitex recommendation cited here; check your own paint’s instructions.
Sources
- What Is Acrylic Paint? — LiquitexOfficial
Written by Mapiance Editorial Team
The Mapiance Editorial Team researches, writes, reviews, and maintains practical guides and explainers for MAPIANCE.
Reviewed by Mapiance Editorial Team
Published Sep 22, 2026 · Updated Sep 22, 2026 · Verified Sep 20, 2026