We have a new look!

I finally got my act together and gave this site a much needed makeover! Let me know what you think! Comment below.

As you can see at the top there is a navigation bar with a few things listed. They are links to my other painting related websites.

Nursery Murals - Great ideas and inspiration concerning Nursery Murals and Decor. We also offer fun giveaways. Be sure to check out the one that is going on now for a 7 piece movable mural set by Wallsy Tales. Click here to enter!

Surfaces with Paint -Do you want to see examples of my work? How about some DIY tips? This is my New York based painting biz. We specialize in Faux Paint & Plaster Finishes, Custom Stenciling, and Hand Painted Wall Murals.

Painter Mommy - This site is all about what it's like to be a busy mom, artist, and entrepreneur. I share inspiration, stories, internet tips, blogging insights, fun pictures & videos, product reviews, and so much more. Be sure to stop by and subscribe via email so you can stay connected. I always love to hear the thoughts and ideas of my readers.

Murals & Faux Store - This is my newest endeaver. For those of you looking for the perfect faux finishing tools for your next painting project. I have come up with a list of my favorites that you can purchase directly from my store. A few of the categories include: Faux Finishing Books, Tools, Paint Brushes, Acrylic Mural Paint, and Glaze & Varnishes. Please stop by - browse and BUY!

So, there you have it folks - a New Look for a recently neglected site.

I am hoping to post at least once a week with tips, advice, ideas, and pictures to help my readers learn and get inspired! Stay tuned everybody!

Oh, and don't forget to check out the Giveaway on my Nursery Site!

How to Thin Acrylic Paints

BASICS ACRYLICS SET/6 4 oz

Here is a reader question about painting with acrylic paints:

I have recently painted a small mural in my nursery. I just used acrylic paints as it was a small project with just a few colors. However, the colors look rather flat and heavy. Is there any way I can sand the image? or what would you suggest for me to do to lighten it up a bit, or give it more depth? ~Kerri

Hi Kerri,

I would not sand the mural, unless you plan on painting the entire wall over again. But from the sound of it, if you say the paint has come out heavy and flat looking, then maybe it would be best to start over.

When painting with acrylics, it is important to use a thinning medium - something to make the paint more fluid and moveable. I use a product called - matte medium. All you have to do is dip your brush into the medium and then into your color and it does wonders.

Acrylic Medium Golden Fluid Matte Medium 8 oz

You really cannot fix the paint once it has dried. If you are truly determined not to have to start over, then you may want to wash over the mural with a few lighter versions of the colors that are already there. Be sure to use a medium to mix with the paint.

If all else fails, start over!!

Check out this book on:
New Tricks and Techniques for Working with the World's Most Versatile Medium