Tempera and Gouache Paints

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About this category
In brief

Both tempera paints and gouache are opaque, matte, and diluted with water, unlike transparent watercolor. For kids and school, liquid or pot tempera paints are enough (JOVI, Colorino, KREUL). For illustration and study, try Kompozit, Solo Goya, or KREUL el Greco gouache, and for artwork, Schmincke AKADEMIE or Horadam gouache.

Which Tempera and Gouache Paints Should You Choose?

See how to paint with gouache in our guide How to Paint with Gouache, and learn about tempera in the article Everything You Need to Know About Painting with Tempera.

How to Achieve Rich Opacity with Gouache: A Practical Guide for Creative Souls How to Achieve Rich Opacity with Gouache: A Practical Guide for Creative Souls Gouache paints are popular for their rich opacity and creamy consistency. This practical guide shows you how to get the most out of them and create striking artwork. Read more →

12 Tips for Working with Tempera Paints and Gouache

1. Start with a clean surface. Make sure it is free of dust, dirt, and oil.

2. Gradually add just a little water to the paints. The more water you add, the more transparent they become and the less coverage they provide.

3. Use a flat synthetic brush for larger areas and a round brush for details.

4. Experiment with different techniques, such as blending, splattering, and dry brushing.

5. Wash your brushes between colors to prevent them from contaminating the paints.

6. Let the paint dry completely before adding more layers.

7. You can protect your finished painting with a varnish or fixative suitable for water-based paints.

8. Apply thin layers of paint instead of thick ones.

9. Use a hair dryer to speed up the drying process.

10. Do not use too much water, as it can cause the paint to run.

11. Paint on heavyweight paper, cardboard, or gesso-primed canvas. Thin paper will buckle when wet.

12. Always store tempera paints in a cool, dry place.

Yours, ARTMiE

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between gouache and tempera paints?

Gouache paints are opaque and matte, and can be reactivated with water after drying, allowing you to add more layers. Tempera paints, such as those from Umton, dry faster and are more durable once dry. Gouache is ideal for detailed illustration, while tempera paints are suitable for larger painting areas and school projects.

Are JOVI paints suitable for younger kids?

Yes, JOVI tempera paints are an excellent choice for kids. They are non-toxic, have a creamy consistency, and are very easy to apply to paper or cardboard. They also wash easily off skin and clothing, which parents appreciate when kids are crafting at home or at school. They are great for first art projects.

Can I mix gouache with other mediums?

You can combine gouache paints with watercolor to achieve interesting transparent and opaque effects. However, we do not recommend mixing them with oil paints, as they have different binders. For high quality, try gouache from KREUL. It has excellent pigmentation and adheres well to various absorbent surfaces, such as paper, paperboard, or wood.

How should I thin tempera paints when painting?

Gradually thin tempera paints with clean water. Start with a small amount so you do not lose the pigment's intensity. To achieve a watercolor effect, add more water. For thicker, heavy body (thick) application, typical of Umton, use the paint straight from the tube or add only a minimal amount of water to create an interesting texture on canvas.

What surfaces are best for gouache paints?

Gouache paints look best on high-quality heavyweight paper that does not buckle when working with water. They are also suitable for cardboard, paperboard, or gesso-primed canvas. Avoid very smooth or oily surfaces, where the paint may not adhere well. For professional results, we recommend lightly roughening the surface before painting.

What is the difference between tempera and acrylic paints?

Tempera paints are matte when dry and remain sensitive to water, while acrylic paints form a water-resistant, flexible layer when dry. Tempera paints are therefore suitable for paper and school projects, while acrylic paints are suitable for canvas, wood, and paintings that need to last.

Which tempera paints are suitable for kids?

Liquid tempera paints with a dispenser are practical for kids, such as JOVI Liquid Tempera (suitable from age 3), or tempera paints in tubs from Colorino. Finger paints from MUCKI are also made for the youngest kids.