Gouache Paint and Sets

Gouache Paint

Gouache (pronounced "gwash") is a versatile, water-based paint known for its vibrant colors, opaque finish, and fast drying times. It’s used for a vast spectrum of artistic applications, from delicate fine art illustrations to bold, graphic designs for comics and posters.

The Advantages of Gouache Paint

• Beginner Friendly: Gouache paint can be re-wet and corrected even after it dries which makes it an excellent choice to learn and experiment with. It’s also useful for a variety of techniques, from fine details to big blocks of solid color.
• Matte Finish: Gouache's flat, non-reflective finish makes it easy to scan or reproduce electronically without glare.
• Mixability: Gouache colors mix easily with one another. They can also be combined with other mediums like watercolors or ink for unique effects.
• Opacity Control: Gouache paint alone dries to a solid, vibrant finish. However, thanks to its opacity control, you can achieve effects reminiscent of other paint mediums. It can be layered like acrylics for vibrancy or thinned for watercolor-like washes.

Let’s delve into a direct comparison between mediums to gain a better understanding of gouache’s distinct features.

Gouache vs. Watercolor Paint

While gouache and watercolor are similar in that they are both water-based and typically use gum arabic as a binder, their key difference lies in opacity. Gouache has a thicker consistency and higher pigment concentration resulting in a more vibrant and velvety matte finish. Watercolor is more transparent allowing you to see the "white" of the paper below the paint.

Additionally, gouache has a faster drying time but can be reactivated with water even after drying. Watercolor takes longer to dry but once it does dry, the pigment particles are locked into the paper fibers making it difficult to make adjustments.

If you're looking for an in-between, both mediums can be intermixed! You can use white gouache to add opacity to watercolor or use watercolor to thin out gouache. Gouache alone can be watered down to achieve a more watercolor-like look as well.

Gouache vs. Acrylic Paint

As mentioned before, gouache dries to a matte finish. This makes it easier to photograph or scan without creating glare. Acrylic paint, on the other hand, can dry to a glossy or satin finish depending on the brand.

Gouache and acrylics also have different levels of flexibility for making adjustments. Gouache is typically considered to be more forgiving. It is water soluble even when dry so it can easily be reactivated and reworked. Acrylic paint is water soluble when wet but water-resistant when dry. This makes it harder to rework but allows for great durability in the long run.

Acrylic Gouache is a unique paint that combines the properties of both acrylic paint and traditional gouache. However, its core features such as the binding element or matte finish align much closer to traditional gouache. Learn more about the difference between regular gouache and acrylic gouache in our guide.

Professional Grade vs. Student Grade

• Professional Grade Gouache uses high-quality pigments making it less susceptible to fading over time. It also has a higher pigment load which leads to richer colors and better coverage.
• Student Grade Gouache has similar working characteristics to professional grade gouache but with less expensive formulas and a lower pigment concentration. It’s a great option for beginners or experimenting.

Learn more about student grade paint and how they compare to professional grade paint in our Student Grade Guide.

Painting Surfaces for Gouache

• Watercolor Paper offers excellent texture and absorbency for long-lasting results.
• Illustration Boards provide a smooth, sturdy surface for detailed artwork.
• Mixed Media Paper is versatile enough to handle various mediums, including gouache.
• Gessoed Wood Panels and Canvases provide a rigid, sturdier surface which allows you to use a wider range of painting techniques with gouache.

Painting Techniques

• Layering and Blending: To build color intensity and depth, apply gouache in thin, even layers. Allow each layer to dry completely before adding subsequent layers to avoid lifting previous colors.
• Color Application: Consider the order in which you apply gouache colors for different effects. Working from light to dark allows for easy layering and a more controlled application of shadows or finer details. Alternatively, starting with dark gouache creates a bold foundation, with lighter colors and highlights on top for emphasis.
• Glazing: Add water to your gouache and apply in thin, transparent layers. This technique allows light to pass through and reveal the colors underneath.
• Minimal Water: Use very little water for a thicker consistency that applies more solidly and conceals the layers underneath.
• Wet-on-Dry: Achieve distinct layers and sharp edges by layering wet gouache onto a dry surface.
• Wet-on-Wet: Create seamless gradients and soft edges by layering wet gouache onto wet.
• Lifting Techniques: Remove paint with a damp brush or cloth for highlights or corrections.

Storage and Preservation

Store gouache in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use sealed containers or paint palettes with airtight lids to prevent drying.