One of the most frustrating experiences for acrylic painters is watching their paints dry out too quickly on the palette or in the tube

Acrylics are water based and fast drying by nature, but some common habits can make the problem much worse

Avoid these five critical blunders to keep your paint workable longer

Nothing accelerates evaporation faster than an open palette

As soon as acrylic paint touches air, the water begins to evaporate

If you leave your palette open while taking breaks or chatting, the water in the paint evaporates rapidly, leaving behind a hard, unusable crust

Keep your paints hydrated by using a spray-misted towel, sealed palette tray, or resealable plastic cover

Second, using too much water to thin your paints might seem helpful for blending, https://stroibloger.com/chem-zadelat-styk-mezhdu-vannoj-i-stenoj/ but it actually backfires

Excessive water breaks down the resin that holds pigment together, resulting in paint that dries before you even finish a stroke

You’re not just losing paint—you’re compromising the durability and longevity of your artwork

Use purpose-built extenders like acrylic flow medium or retarder instead of water to retain color strength and working time

Environmental factors like heat, airflow, and dry air are paint’s worst enemies

Even a slight breeze or radiant heat can evaporate moisture in under a minute

Work in a room with regulated temperature and optimal humidity levels to extend paint life

A small humidifier nearby can help significantly if you're in a dry climate

Neglecting brush hygiene leads to dried paint clogging your bristles

Hardened paint on your brush doesn’t just ruin the brush—it makes it seem like your paint has dried when it hasn’t

This might make you think your paint is dry when it's actually just hard to access

Clean your brushes immediately after switching colors and gently restore their original shape

How you store your paints after painting determines how long they’ll last

Over-squeezing tubes and failing to seal them leads to unavoidable drying and spoilage

The moment a tube is opened, evaporation starts from the surface, creating a skin

Always cap tubes tightly and avoid overextending paint onto your palette

Consider using a stay wet palette system if you paint frequently, as this keeps paint workable for days

Steering clear of these errors means more paint saved, less frustration, and a smoother creative flow

Acrylics don't have to be a race against time

Small changes in your routine can extend your paint’s life dramatically