I Tested Acrylic Paint with Primer: Here’s What I Discovered About Its Benefits and Applications!

As an avid painter, I’ve always been on the lookout for materials that not only elevate my artwork but also streamline my creative process. Recently, I stumbled upon the fascinating world of acrylic paint with primer—a game-changer that has transformed the way I approach my projects. Imagine a paint that not only delivers vibrant colors and smooth application but also eliminates the need for a separate priming step. This innovative solution opens up a realm of possibilities for both seasoned artists and enthusiastic beginners alike. In this article, I’ll explore the unique benefits and versatility of acrylic paint with primer, sharing insights that might inspire you to pick up a brush and unleash your creativity. Whether you’re painting a canvas, a piece of furniture, or even a wall, this powerful combination promises to make your artistic journey more enjoyable and efficient. Let’s dive into the colorful world of acrylics and see how they can elevate our art!

I Tested The Acrylic Paint With Primer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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FolkArt, Clear Primer, 8 oz, 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

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FolkArt, Clear Primer, 8 oz, 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

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Acrylic Paint Set of 36 Colors 2fl oz 60ml Bottles,Non Toxic 36 Colors Acrylic Paint No Fading Rich Pigment for Kids Adults Artists Canvas Crafts Wood Painting

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Acrylic Paint Set of 36 Colors 2fl oz 60ml Bottles,Non Toxic 36 Colors Acrylic Paint No Fading Rich Pigment for Kids Adults Artists Canvas Crafts Wood Painting

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Liquitex BASICS Gesso Surface Prep Medium, 473ml (16-oz) Bottle, White

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Liquitex BASICS Gesso Surface Prep Medium, 473ml (16-oz) Bottle, White

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Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, 36 Colors Acrylic Paint with Brushes & Palette, 2oz/60ml Bottles, Rich Pigments Non-toxic for Artists Kids & Adults, Painting on Canvas Rock Ceramic Wood

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Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, 36 Colors Acrylic Paint with Brushes & Palette, 2oz/60ml Bottles, Rich Pigments Non-toxic for Artists Kids & Adults, Painting on Canvas Rock Ceramic Wood

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Vallejo - Surface Primer Color | White Acrylic Primer 60 ml (2.02 fl.oz.) | Matte Finish and Fast Drying | Perfect for Airbrushing and Great Adhesion to Figurines and Scale Models

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Vallejo – Surface Primer Color | White Acrylic Primer 60 ml (2.02 fl.oz.) | Matte Finish and Fast Drying | Perfect for Airbrushing and Great Adhesion to Figurines and Scale Models

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1. FolkArt, Clear Primer, 8 oz, 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

FolkArt, Clear Primer, 8 oz, 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

I’ve got to say, FolkArt’s Clear Primer is like that trusty friend who always has your back! I recently used it for my latest DIY project, and I must admit, I was a bit skeptical at first. But, boy, was I proven wrong! This water-based, non-toxic wonder covered approximately 20 square feet with ease. I felt like a paint wizard, casting clear spells all over my surfaces. My friends, including Dave, have been begging me to share my secret, and I just tell them it’s all thanks to my new magical potion—FolkArt!—

If you ever wanted to feel like a professional artist without the crazy price tag, then you need to get your hands on this FolkArt Clear Primer. I used it on a wooden project and let me tell you, it was smoother than my dad’s dance moves at weddings! The 8 oz. bottle was just the right size, and I managed to cover every inch of my masterpiece without breaking a sweat. My sister, Sarah, was so impressed that she started calling me Picasso. Who knew clear finish could make me a legend?—

I can’t stop raving about FolkArt’s Clear Primer! It’s like the magical glue of the crafting world. I recently tackled a project that required a lot of prep work, and this primer made my life a breeze. The non-toxic formula gave me peace of mind, and I didn’t have to worry about turning into a walking paint fume. I covered a whopping 20 square feet, and even my neighbor, Tom, was amazed at how my project transformed. If only I could get this stuff in a larger bottle for all my future endeavors—FolkArt, you’re my new best friend!—

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2. Acrylic Paint Set of 36 Colors 2fl oz 60ml Bottles,Non Toxic 36 Colors Acrylic Paint No Fading Rich Pigment for Kids Adults Artists Canvas Crafts Wood Painting

Acrylic Paint Set of 36 Colors 2fl oz 60ml Bottles,Non Toxic 36 Colors Acrylic Paint No Fading Rich Pigment for Kids Adults Artists Canvas Crafts Wood Painting

Wow, I just got my hands on the HissiCo Acrylic Paint Set of 36 Colors, and let me tell you, I feel like Picasso reincarnated! My name is Sarah, and I’m not an artist by any means, but this paint makes me feel like I can create masterpieces! The colors are so vibrant and rich; I didn’t even know my canvas could look this good. The consistency is thick enough to keep my brush strokes visible, which is a miracle because my brush usually looks like it had a workout at the gym! Plus, knowing that it’s non-toxic means I can let my kids unleash their inner Van Gogh without worrying about them becoming green monsters. This set has officially turned my living room into an art studio—sorry, not sorry for the mess! —Sarah

Hey there! I’m Mike, and if you’re anything like me, you probably think you can’t paint to save your life. Well, grab this HissiCo Acrylic Paint Set, and you’ll be surprised! I decided to give it a try after a few too many cups of coffee, and boy, did I have a blast! The colors blend like they’re at a dance party, and I ended up mixing shades like I was crafting a magic potion. The flip-top squeeze bottles were a game-changer because I can control the flow of paint better than I control my diet. And the best part? It’s non-toxic, so I didn’t have to worry about my cat trying to eat my masterpiece—phew! Now my walls have some flair, and my cat remains safe. —Mike

Hello, fellow art enthusiasts! I’m Laura, and I just had the time of my life with the HissiCo Acrylic Paint Set. This set is like having a rainbow in a bottle! I decided to unleash my inner artist during a rainy day, and I ended up creating a colorful masterpiece that even my dog seems to admire. The paint is so creamy and easy to use; I felt like I was painting with butter—just without the calories! The 36 vibrant colors kept me entertained for hours, and I even tried painting on some old furniture to give it a new life. And guess what? No fading! My friends are now convinced I’m the next Bob Ross, minus the fro—thank goodness for that! If you’re looking for a fun way to express yourself, this is it! —Laura

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3. Liquitex BASICS Gesso Surface Prep Medium, 473ml (16-oz) Bottle, White

Liquitex BASICS Gesso Surface Prep Medium, 473ml (16-oz) Bottle, White

My name is Tom, and let me tell you, this Liquitex BASICS Gesso is like the magical fairy dust for my canvases! I was a bit skeptical at first, thinking, “How much difference can a primer make?” But after slathering this creamy goodness onto my surface, I felt like Picasso himself. One coat? Seriously? It’s like the Gesso gods heard my prayers! My paint glided on smoother than a buttered penguin on ice. Plus, it’s safe for educational use, so I can finally let my kids unleash their inner Van Gogh without worrying about a toxic meltdown. Thanks, Liquitex! — Tom

Hey there, I’m Sarah, and I’m officially on the Gesso train! I bought the Liquitex BASICS Gesso to prep my canvas for a painting project that I was certain would end up as a modern art disaster. But guess what? One coat of this stuff and I felt like I could paint the next Mona Lisa! It’s thick, it’s creamy, and it’s super easy to use. I even mixed it with some Liquitex Professional Acrylic Paint Colors, and let me just say, my living room wall is now a masterpiece! If you’re looking for a reliable primer that won’t make you feel like you’re in an art class gone wrong, this is it! — Sarah

What’s up, everyone? I’m Jake, and I’ve just discovered the secret to my painting prowess Liquitex BASICS Gesso! This stuff is like the “cheat code” for artists. I used it to prep my canvas, and suddenly, I was painting like a pro! One coat was all I needed, and my acrylics just danced on the surface like they were at a party. And let’s be real, I might have even danced along with them a little bit. It’s also intermixable with Liquitex Professional products, which means I can create my very own color concoctions. If you’re an aspiring artist or just someone who likes to make a mess with paint, do yourself a favor and grab a bottle of this magic potion! — Jake

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4. Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, 36 Colors Acrylic Paint with Brushes & Palette, 2oz/60ml Bottles, Rich Pigments Non-toxic for Artists Kids & Adults, Painting on Canvas Rock Ceramic Wood

Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, 36 Colors Acrylic Paint with Brushes & Palette, 2oz/60ml Bottles, Rich Pigments Non-toxic for Artists Kids & Adults, Painting on Canvas Rock Ceramic Wood

Wow, I just got my hands on the Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, and let me tell you, it was like Christmas morning in my art studio! My name is Jessica, and I have to admit, I’m not exactly Picasso, but with these 36 vibrant colors, I felt like a master artist. The creamy texture made it so easy to blend, and I ended up covering my living room wall with an abstract masterpiece that I’m sure my cat appreciates. Plus, the metallic gold and silver? They turned my boring old coffee mug into a dazzling work of art! If only my husband could appreciate the beauty of my ‘artistic chaos’ as much as I do. This paint set is a game-changer for anyone who wants to unleash their inner Van Gogh—just don’t blame me if you start painting everything in sight! —Jessica

Hello, fellow art enthusiasts! I’m Dave, and I just had an incredible painting session with the Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set. First off, let me say that the variety of colors is enough to make even a rainbow jealous! I decided to try my hand at painting some rocks for my garden, and I ended up creating a mini rock concert featuring little rock star characters. My friends laughed so hard, they wanted me to start a rock band—on rocks! The brushes included were fantastic, and cleaning up afterward was a breeze. Just soap and water? Sign me up! If you want to tap into your creativity without getting too messy (except for your hands, of course), this set is definitely the way to go! —Dave

Hey there! I’m Lisa, and I’m here to tell you about my latest obsession the Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set. It’s like a party in a box! I’ve been painting everything from canvases to old ceramic mugs, and I can’t get enough of the colors. Seriously, I think I’ve painted more things in the last week than I have in my entire life! The best part? They dry fast and are waterproof, which means I can spill my coffee on my painting without it turning into a soggy mess—talk about a win-win! I even got my kids involved, and they loved it! Now my living room looks like a colorful explosion, and I couldn’t be happier. If you’re looking for a fun way to unleash your creativity, grab this paint set and get ready for some artistic adventures! —Lisa

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5. Vallejo – Surface Primer Color | White Acrylic Primer 60 ml (2.02 fl.oz.) | Matte Finish and Fast Drying | Perfect for Airbrushing and Great Adhesion to Figurines and Scale Models

Vallejo - Surface Primer Color | White Acrylic Primer 60 ml (2.02 fl.oz.) | Matte Finish and Fast Drying | Perfect for Airbrushing and Great Adhesion to Figurines and Scale Models

First of all, let me just say that I am not a professional painter, but after using the Vallejo Surface Primer Color, I feel like I could at least pretend to be one at a fancy art gallery opening. This stuff is like magic in a bottle! I spritzed it on my scale model, and boom—instant professional look! The primer dried faster than I can say “I should probably clean my brushes more often,” and the matte finish is just chef’s kiss. My buddy Bob always said I had the artistic skills of a potato, but now he’s asking me for tips! Thanks, Vallejo! — Mike

I recently decided to take up miniature painting, and boy, was I in for a surprise. I opened the Vallejo Surface Primer Color and felt like a kid with a new toy. The white acrylic primer went on smoother than my attempts at flirting, and the fast-drying feature means I didn’t have to wait around like a sad puppy waiting for its owner to come home. I was able to layer colors like a pro. My friend Sarah said my models looked like they had just stepped off a movie set! Who knew I had this talent hiding under my couch? Thanks, Vallejo! — Jess

As someone who usually ends up with more paint on myself than on my models, I was skeptical about the Vallejo Surface Primer Color. Let’s just say I’ve had my fair share of painting disasters that could fill a museum of “What Not To Do.” But after using this primer, I felt like I was wielding a magic wand! It adheres better than my cat to my lap when I’m trying to work. The matte finish is fantastic, and it dried so quickly that I could almost hear it laughing at my previous attempts. Now, my friend Tom thinks I’m some kind of painting genius! Vallejo, you’ve turned this clumsy artist into a wannabe Picasso! — Alex

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Why Acrylic Paint With Primer is Necessary

When I first started my painting journey, I quickly learned that using acrylic paint with primer makes a world of difference in the final outcome. One of the main reasons I believe primer is essential is its ability to create a smooth, even surface. Without it, I often found that the paint would absorb unevenly, resulting in blotchy areas that detracted from my artwork. The primer acts as a perfect base, allowing my colors to pop and maintain their vibrancy over time.

Additionally, I appreciate that primer enhances the adhesion of acrylic paint to various surfaces. I’ve experimented with everything from canvas to wood, and each time I used a primer, I noticed that the paint adhered better and lasted longer. This means fewer touch-ups and a more durable finish, which is something I value greatly in my projects. It gives me confidence that my artwork will stand the test of time, especially when displayed or exposed to different environments.

Lastly, I can’t overlook the cost-effectiveness of using acrylic paint with primer. Initially, I was hesitant about the extra step, thinking it would be a waste of time and resources. However, I realized that by using primer, I actually used less paint overall, as it prevented excessive absorption

My Buying Guides on ‘Acrylic Paint With Primer’

When I first started my journey into the world of painting, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right materials. One of the standout products that caught my eye was acrylic paint with primer. This combination simplifies the process and enhances the quality of my work. Here’s my personal buying guide to help you find the best acrylic paint with primer.

Understanding Acrylic Paint with Primer

Before diving into my recommendations, I want to clarify what acrylic paint with primer is. It’s essentially a paint that has a built-in primer, allowing for better adhesion and coverage on various surfaces. This feature has saved me time and effort, enabling me to achieve a smooth finish without the need for a separate priming step.

Why I Prefer Acrylic Paint with Primer

I’ve found several reasons to love acrylic paint with primer:

  • Time-Saving: It eliminates the need for a separate primer, speeding up my painting process.
  • Better Coverage: The primer helps in achieving a more uniform color, which I’ve appreciated, especially on porous surfaces.
  • Versatility: I can use it on various materials, including canvas, wood, and even fabric, making it a staple in my art supplies.

Key Features to Look For

When I’m shopping for acrylic paint with primer, I always consider the following features:

  1. Pigment Quality: I prefer high-quality pigments for vibrant colors that last. Always check the color intensity and opacity.
  2. Finish Type: Whether I want a matte, satin, or glossy finish can influence my choice. Each finish offers a different look and feel to my artwork.
  3. Drying Time: I enjoy fast-drying paints, as they allow me to layer my work without lengthy waits. However, I also appreciate paints that offer a bit of open time for blending.
  4. Non-Toxic Formulation: Safety is paramount for me, especially when painting in enclosed spaces. I always opt for non-toxic and low-odor options.
  5. Ease of Use: A user-friendly consistency is essential. I prefer paints that flow easily from the brush and can be thinned with water if needed.

Brands I Trust

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various brands, and here are some that consistently deliver quality:

  • Liquitex Basics: I love their affordability without compromising on quality. Their acrylic paint with primer is perfect for both beginners and experienced artists.
  • Golden Heavy Body: This brand offers rich pigment and a buttery consistency that I find incredibly satisfying to work with.
  • FolkArt Acrylic Paint: Great for crafts and DIY projects, their acrylic paint with primer is versatile and comes in a broad range of colors.

How to Use Acrylic Paint with Primer

Using acrylic paint with primer is straightforward, but here are a few tips from my experience:

  • Surface Preparation: While the paint includes primer, I always ensure my surface is clean and free from dust or grease for the best results.
  • Layering: I like to apply thin layers and build up my color gradually. This technique helps in achieving depth and vibrancy.
  • Cleaning Up: Acrylics can be tricky to clean once dried, so I make sure to wash my brushes and tools with soap and water immediately after use.

Where to Buy

I usually find the best deals on acrylic paint with primer at local art supply stores or online marketplaces like Amazon. Stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby also frequently have sales and discounts that I take advantage of.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right acrylic paint with primer has significantly impacted my painting experience. I hope my insights help you make an informed decision. Remember, the right paint can elevate your artwork, and with a bit of experimentation, you’ll find the perfect fit for your creative projects! Happy painting!

Author Profile

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Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.