Tempera Paint

Tempera paint is a water-soluble medium with a smooth creamy consistency. It is opaque on its own but can be thinned with water for watercolor-like washes. Its versatility empowers artists of all ages to create on various surfaces and explore ...

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Tempera Paint


Tempera paint is a water-soluble medium with a smooth creamy consistency. It is opaque on its own but can be thinned with water for watercolor-like washes. Its versatility empowers artists of all ages to create on various surfaces and explore different techniques. Furthermore, its non-toxic nature, ease of use, and affordability make it a perfect choice for classroom projects.


Composition of Tempera Paint

Tempera paint is generally made with three main ingredients: binder, pigment, and additive. The binder holds the pigment particles together and attaches them to the painting surface. Traditionally, egg yolk has been used as a natural binder in tempera paint. Now, many commercially available tempera paints, especially those designed for children, use different binders such as acrylic polymers or plant-based starches. Both offer the benefits of being safer, longer-lasting, and easier to clean up. As for pigments, most modern versions utilize synthetic production but historically, pigments were derived from natural materials such as minerals, plants, and even insects. Some tempera paints contain additives to improve properties such as shelf life, consistency, or flow of paint.


Types of Tempera Paint

  • Liquid Tempera Paint: Liquid tempera comes ready to use in bottles or jars, with sizes ranging from small 2-ounce containers to large gallon jugs.
  • Tempera Paint Sticks: Tempera sticks are a convenient option similar to crayons or pastels. They do not require brushes or water, offering mess-free portability.
  • Tempera Cakes: Tempera cakes are solid blocks of dried tempera paint that need to be activated with water before painting on a surface.
  • Tempera Powder: Tempera powder is a dry powder that needs to be activated with water before use. It is a cost-effective option that allows for precise color mixing and custom shades.

Advantages of Tempera Paint

  • Ease of Use: Tempera is incredibly user-friendly, whether you’re using pre-mixed liquid tempera, sticks, cakes, or powder. It requires little preparation, can be thinned with water to achieve various levels of opacity and flow, adapts to a wide range of applications, and cleans up easily with soap and water.
  • Quick Drying Times: One of tempera paint's key features is its rapid drying time. Painted surfaces typically become dry to the touch within 10 minutes and fully dry in just 20-30 minutes.
  • Safe for All Ages: Widely used in schools and early childhood settings, tempera paints are formulated with safety in mind. They are typically non-toxic and allergen-friendly or allergen-free.
  • Ideal for Temporary Art: Because tempera is water-soluble, it’s perfect for temporary art projects like window decorations or seasonal crafts. Powdered tempera is particularly well-suited for glass surfaces, and any artwork can be easily removed with soapy water.
  • Bright, Clean Colors: Tempera paints boast vibrant, true-to-life colors that can be easily mixed, making tempera an excellent medium for exploring color theory.
  • Affordable Price: Tempera paint is one of the most budget-friendly art supplies available, making it accessible for classroom use, large-scale projects, and anyone seeking an economical yet expressive painting medium.

Painting Surfaces For Tempera Paint

Tempera adheres well to a wide range of surfaces, including paper, cardboard, poster board, canvas, wood, glass, and even fabric. For optimal results on canvas, opt for a pre-primed canvas or apply a primer beforehand to prevent cracking. Ensure your surface is clean, dry, and free of dust or debris before starting to paint.


Tempera Painting Techniques

From fun fluid techniques to textured methods, here are some ideas to help you explore the possibilities of tempera:


  • Washes: Thin the paint with water to create translucent washes. This adds depth and subtle color variations.
  • Layering: Apply multiple layers of tempera paint to build up color saturation and create a sense of depth.
  • Stippling: Create a pointillist effect by applying small dots of tempera paint with a brush or sponge. This technique can be used to build up color and create texture.
  • Sgraffito: Scratch through a wet layer of tempera paint to reveal the color underneath, creating unique patterns and designs.
  • Color Mixing: Water-soluble pigments in tempera paint allow for effortless mixing and smooth blending. Experiment with color mixing to create a wide range of custom shades.
  • Mixed Media: Combine tempera with other materials like crayons, oil pastels, or ink to create unique mixed-media artworks.

Storage and Preservation

Store tempera paint in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use sealed containers or paint palettes with airtight lids to prevent drying. Dispensers and cups for liquid tempera are a great solution for managing paint in a classroom. Egg-yolk tempera has a shorter shelf life due to the organic binder. Once opened, aim to use it within 6 months. View our guide for details on Blick Tempera Paint Care & Storage Tips.