An In-Depth Review of Golden Acrylic Heavy Body Paints

nicoleriemenschnei5
Aug 23
2 min read

Updated: Sep 2

✨ Pigmentation & Texture

Golden’s Heavy Body line is highly pigmented, delivering bold, vibrant color with every stroke. The texture is thick and buttery, making it ideal for techniques like impasto or bold brushwork. However, the thickness can be a challenge for smoother applications—this is where a medium comes in.

🖌️ Pro Tip: Use a Medium

I always recommend pairing heavy body paints with a medium to improve flow and workability. One of my go-to mix-ins is Golden Retarder, which extends drying time and allows for glazing and smoother transitions. Whether you're blending colors or working on fine details, adding a medium helps the paint move more fluidly across the canvas.

🎨 Color Selection

Golden offers a solid range of colors, comparable to most major brands, with the added bonus of some metallic options. It’s worth noting, though, that the metallic shades tend to be more translucent than the standard colors in this line—so keep that in mind if you’re aiming for bold, opaque coverage.

🧪 Versatility of Product Lines

One of Golden’s standout advantages is its variety of paint types. In addition to Heavy Body, they also offer Fluid, High Flow, and Soft Body acrylics—allowing you to explore different textures and techniques within the same trusted brand.

💰 Cost & Value

Golden paints fall in the mid-to-high price range. If you're working within a budget, I suggest using Golden for key colors or focal points, and supplementing with a more affordable value brand for underpainting or less critical areas. This approach balances quality and cost-efficiency without compromising your final result.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Golden Heavy Body Acrylics are a reliable choice for artists looking for professional quality, rich color, and versatility. While they may not be the most budget-friendly option out there, their performance makes them a worthwhile investment—especially when used strategically.

🖼️ How to Incorporate Golden Acrylics into Your Art

Using Golden Acrylics effectively can elevate your artwork. Here are some tips:

Layering Techniques: Start with a base layer using a more affordable paint. Then, apply Golden Heavy Body paints for the top layers to achieve depth and richness.
Experiment with Textures: Try using palette knives or sponges to create unique textures. The thick consistency of Golden paints lends itself well to various techniques.
Mixing Colors: Don’t hesitate to mix different colors from the Golden line. This can lead to unique shades that enhance your artwork.
Use with Other Mediums: Explore combining Golden Heavy Body paints with other mediums for different effects. This can broaden your artistic possibilities.
Practice: The more you work with these paints, the more you’ll understand their behavior. Practice different techniques to find what works best for you.