Best Paint Mediums & Additives Under $100 (2026)

We rated products under $100 by documented function (glazing, masking, pouring, gloss, stencil), user ratings, and value score to identify versatile, well-reviewed options for home and art use

This roundup identifies paint mediums and additives under $100 that improve finish, flow, and texture for home decor and art projects. Selections prioritize documented utility (glazing, masking, pouring, gloss, stencil paste), customer ratings, and value for common studio and DIY uses

Top Picks

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    U.S. Art Supply Floetrol Pouring Medium Deluxe Kit

    U.S. Art Supply Floetrol Pouring Medium Deluxe Kit

    U.S. Art Supply • ★ 4.1/5 • Mid-Range

    Premium pouring medium kit with silicone oil and cups to enhance flow and color blending. Includes essential mixing tools for versatile art pouring, plus positive feedback on ease of use and value for money

    • Pouring medium for smooth flow
    • All-in-one mixing kit
    • Includes silicone oil and cups
    Check current price on Amazon →
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    Gloss Pouring Medium 64oz - U.S. Art Supply

    Gloss Pouring Medium 64oz - U.S. Art Supply

    U.S. Art Supply • ★ 4.1/5 • Budget

    Gloss pouring medium to improve flow and create cells in acrylic pours. Provides glossy finish and smooth color applications; some users report good results while others note pourability mixability issues

    • glossy acrylic pouring medium
    • improves consistency and flow
    • creates cells and smooth pours
    Check current price on Amazon →
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    Mixol Universal Tints Oxide Camel 200ml

    Mixol Universal Tints Oxide Camel 200ml

    Mixol • ★ 3.9/5 • Mid-Range

    Mixol Universal Tints in Oxide Camel, 200ml. Highly concentrated, easy cleanup with soap and water, non-flammable and resistant to heat or frost. Customers praise color quality and concentration, suitable for dyeing epoxy and interior paint

    • excellent color quality
    • great concentration
    • stable in heat and frost
    Check current price on Amazon →
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Buying Guide

Match medium to paint type

Choose additives formulated for your base—acrylic pouring mediums for acrylics, glazing media for acrylic glazing, and rubber-latex masking fluid for watercolor—to preserve performance and finish

Prioritize purpose over brand

Select for the functional outcome you need (gloss finish, flow control, masking, metallic texture, or extended open time) rather than only by maker name

Check viscosity and mixing ratios

Look for product notes on thickness and recommended mix ratios—pouring kits and floetrol blends require different dilution than glazing or stencil pastes to avoid cracking or tackiness

Consider finish and surface compatibility

Decide whether you want gloss, matte, translucent glazing, or metallic paste and confirm compatibility with canvas, wood, paper, or sealed surfaces

Assess cleanup and permanence

For studio ease and longevity, weigh water-soluble or solvent-based cleanup against archival properties—masking fluids and some pastes may affect long-term removal or adhesion