Best Paint Mediums & Additives (2026 Guide)
We selected products based on aggregated user ratings and review volume, product function (glazing, pouring, masking, texture), and recognized brand reliability
The Verdict
- Best Overall: Liquitex Professional Fluid Medium, Glazing Medium (473ml) — Best for glazing: professional fluid medium that improves flow and transparency for acrylic glazes
- Best Value: Winsor & Newton Watercolor Masking Fluid 250ml — Best for watercolor masking: formulated masking fluid that protects paper while keeping pigment edges sharp
This guide covers top-rated paint mediums and additives for home decor and craft projects, focusing on glazing, pouring, masking and texture-building products. Picks were chosen by cross-referencing user ratings, review volume, brand reputation, and product function to highlight reliable options for different painting techniques
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall Liquitex Professional Fluid Medium, Glazing Medium (473ml)
Best for glazing: professional fluid medium that improves flow and transparency for acrylic glazes
Liquitex Professional Fluid Medium for glazing with acrylics; enhances gloss and extends drying time. Easy to apply with brush and mixes well with paints
- gloss finish with acrylics
- extends drying time
- non-yellowing, water-resistant finish
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2
Best Value Winsor & Newton Watercolor Masking Fluid 250ml
Best for watercolor masking: formulated masking fluid that protects paper while keeping pigment edges sharp
Pigmented masking fluid for protecting areas when applying color with watercolors. Easy removal and adds a shimmering effect; some users note a beige-yellow tint and occasional paper tearing concerns
- easy removal
- effective masking for washes
- adds iridescent shimmer
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3
U.S. Art Supply Floetrol Pouring Medium Deluxe Kit
Best for pouring kits: complete floetrol-based kit that enhances flow and includes additives for cells
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
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4
Gloss Pouring Medium 64oz - U.S. Art Supply
Best for gloss finishes: large-capacity gloss pouring medium that levels well for high-sheen surfaces
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
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5
The Crafter's Workshop Stencil Butter - Formal Acrylic Paint Set
Best for stenciling texture: metallic stencil butter that creates raised, durable acrylic texture effects
Acrylic paint set with metallic texture paste for art on various surfaces. Noted for smooth consistency and nice sheen, suitable for stenciling and craft projects
- multisurface compatibility
- smooth texture with shine
- easy-to-use stenciling paint
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6
SENNELIER D'Artigny Oil Pastel Fixative, 1 Count, Clear
Best for pastel protection: clear fixative that stabilizes oil pastels with a transparent finish
Transparent fixative for oil pastels that protects artwork from dust and smearing and leaves a clear, glossy film. Customers note quick drying and improved durability with minimal color change
- clear, glossy film
- quick-drying
- dust and smudge protection
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7
The Crafter's Workshop Stencil Butter - Holiday Acrylic Paint Set
Best for seasonal craft sets: themed stencil butter set that adds festive metallic texture to projects
A boutique metallic texture paste set for art on canvas, paper, and journals. Noted for beautiful color, smooth consistency, and ease of use for stenciling
- multi-surface compatibility
- texture paste for metallic finish
- creative for cards and journals
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8
The Crafter's Workshop Stencil Butter Caribbean Sea Set
Best for coastal palettes: stencil butter set with vibrant sea-tone acrylics for mixed-media canvases
Acrylic paint set with metallic texture paste for art on various surfaces. Noted for smooth consistency and nice sheen. Customers mention vibrant colors and ease of use
- suitable for multiple surfaces
- vibrant color quality
- ease of use
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9
Mixol Universal Tints Oxide Camel 200ml
Best for tinting: universal tints designed to modify color without altering medium performance
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
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10
The Crafter's Workshop Forest Stencil Butter - 4 x 2oz Acrylic Paint Set
Best for multi-surface stenciling: compact stencil butter set formulated for various surfaces and layers
Acrylic paint set on multiple surfaces for stenciling and art projects. Noted for smoothness and color quality; some users found the size small and durability mixed
- multi-surface compatibility
- smooth texture with sheen
- compact 4 x 2oz jars