Natural Acrylic Medium

An all-new, first of its kind, plant-based acrylic medium.
The Acrylic Medium is made with naturally archival ingredients to provide a permanent, water-resistant and non-yellowing finish that dries crystal clear. It is truly non-toxic and contains zero petroleum byproducts*. Just like conventional acrylic mediums, this medium has many uses.

Why the Natural Acrylic Medium:
Plant-based
Contains zero petroleum byproducts
Natural
Can be used by mixing with natural pigments to make paint
Can be used as a superb varnish and/or sealer
Can be used as a collage adhesive
Non-toxic
Contains no harmful additives
Free of stabilizers
Free of metals
Comes in a reusable glass jar
Made in the US
Ingredients: *This product is a unique formulation that has been years in the making, so the specific ingredients are proprietary information. Natural Earth Paint always strive to be as clear and honest about all of our product details whenever possible, however they appreciate your understanding that they cannot share specific ingredients at this time.
Size: 16oz (473ml)

Uses:
Natural Acrylic Paint - mix with our natural earth pigments to make your own natural acrylic paints that are perfect for use on canvas, paper, fabric, wood, stone, drywall and metal. Each pigment has a different chemical structure so the amount required for mixing will vary, but generally speaking, each full jar of acrylic will require about 4oz-5oz of pigment.
Natural Fabric Paint - mix with pigments to make the only natural, permanent, and water-proof fabric paint on the market.
Natural Varnish - seal paintings, wood, and any craft projects. Works great as a protectant over our Earth Paints.
Natural Adhesive for mixed media or collage artworks.
Beauty - Enhance depth of colors, transparency, texture and flow of other acrylic paints.

Additional information:
Q: If this is acrylic, isn't this still just plastic?
A: Conventional acrylic is made with petrochemicals and a host of other toxic additives and preservatives. Our medium is made with a completely plant-based resin and non-toxic ingredients. It does, however, create a final finish exactly like acrylic in that it is water-resistant, super durable and will not biodegrade. If you are interested in a fully biodegradable paint, please try any of the other paints we offer or paint recipes in our resources page.

Q: What is the natural acrylic medium made of specifically? The website just says it is plant-based.
A: The acrylic is a unique formulation that we have spent years working on creating, so the specific ingredients are a proprietary recipe. I hope you understand that we cannot share specific ingredients however we can say that all ingredients are plant-based and non toxic. Please let us know if you have any other questions.

Q: How does NEP acrylic compare to conventional acrylic paint? Is it archival?
A: This medium behaves exactly like conventional acrylic medium and will create a very durable, archival, solid paint film. The only difference between this product and conventional acrylic medium is that this one is made with plants and non-toxic ingredients whereas conventional is made with petroleum and toxic additives. But both end up with a solid acrylic film.

Q: How long does your acrylic medium take to dry?
A: 15-45 minutes depending on humidity levels

Q: Does the acrylic dry stiff or is it flexible?
A: The acrylic dries with a durable yet flexible finish that allows paper to curve and bend

Q: How long does it last in the container?
A: It has a 2 year shelf life in new condition. Once opened there are many variables that can affect the amount of time it stays good so we can't give a firm timeline on how long it will last. To get the most longevity, avoid leaving it open for long periods of time, avoid using/storing it in a sunny location, and ensure it is not contaminated with other products.

Q: What do you use as a preservative?
A: The name of the preservative in the medium is proprietary, but it is non-toxic. The medium itself has a minimum 2 year shelf life in the jar.

Q: Once the acrylic is mixed with pigment, how long will the paint be useable?
A: It depends on the pigment. If you mix them and immediately store them in an air tight container or tube, they will last 6 months - 1 year, depending on the pigment since each pigment dries at different speeds.

Q: How much coverage can one expect to get out of each jar?
A: In our testing, we go 16sf of coverage using 3oz of mixed acrylic paint, so we estimate an entire 16 oz. jar should yield 90sf of coverage. It can be thinned a little with water to extend it if needed.

Q: How much pigment is needed to mix an entire jar?
A: The chemical composition of each pigment is different, so the quantity required will vary, but generally speaking, each 16oz jar of acrylic will require 4oz of dry pigment.

Q: Is the acrylic biodegradable?
A: The natural acrylic does not biodegrade or compost because it is meant to be a durable, permanent paint. It will break down over a very long period of time like conventional acrylic paint though.

If you prefer a biodegradable paint then a better option would be our Complete Eco-friendly Oil Paint Kit, our Natural Earth Paint Kit, or any recipes on our website (watercolor, gouache, egg tempera, etc.). These paints will be permanent and archival as well (if kept indoors away from elements) but if they are thrown away or left out in the elements, they will turn back to earth.

Q: Can it be used on baby or childrens toys?
A: Yes, it is very durable yet safe. Once applied, please wait a week before giving the sealed toys to the baby in order to make sure it's completely cured and dried. At that point, it is safe for children as it will be a completely solid, durable coating. However if it is soaked in water for long periods of time (like in a bath tub) the film will soften so avoid that.

Q: How do you clean up the acrylic? Can it be washed down the drain?
A: Cleanup can be done with hot water and soap. It has been certified safe to wash down the drain and will not damage pipes. However we recommend throwing away used paint in the trash rather than pouring large amounts down a drain. Washing brushes out in the sink is completely safe.