Odd question about thinning acrylics

Hi all,

This is an odd question I'm sure.

Do the chemicals in tap water affect acrylic paints when used a thinner (if yes, how?)? What about windshield washer fluid? Would distilled be best? Or, all of this moot given the concentrations in play?

I've only just started using acrylics, so really am no position to have direct knowledge of the subject.

Reply to
SamVanga
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Most I know who use acrylics use windscreen wash as a dillutant.

I've tried it and it works well, I just wish I knew about it for all those years I spent painting Warhammer minis!! Took me to jump into scale modelling to find out about it.

Tone

Reply to
Tone

Hard to answer, since so many things can be in tap water even if it is potable, depending on where you are, and whether you soften it. Our stuff is full of carbonates and has flouride added, so on the rare occasions I use water as a thinner, I use distilled. Jug under the bench lasts six months to a year, and I think I lose most of that to evaporation (use more for decals and brush cleaning).

Mark Schynert

Reply to
Mark Schynert

Reply to
Ron

Hi all,

Many thanks for the replies. I always wondered.

Reply to
SamVanga

I have had by far the best luck using name brand Windex. Works like a champ.

Be aware though that using it for making washes will strip the paint already laid down. I try not to use it for any application where I am using over half thinner, like in washes.

Jeff

Reply to
Jeff

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