Various ways to thin or reduce acrylic paints

Thinning acrylic paint with Pledge floor care?

If you have visited any of the modeling forums, you probably heard about model hobbyist using Future floor shine to thin acrylic paints for airbrushing or creating washed to highlight intricate details.  In fact, it does work as Future is nothing more than an aqueous clear acrylic suspension.  The problem is that it has been hard to find.  The Future name was discontinued in 2008 and was replaced with Pledge Floor care featuring future.  You can read more about it here.

I have used the Pledge floor care many times with good effect with craft acrylics in an airbrush.  The Pledge even works as a decent clear coat as well but I would suggest a follow up lacquer coating to seal it. 

The main benefit of the Pledge floor care is the acrylic resin content.  You can dilute it down without jeopardizing the paint film integrity.  If you reall want a cheap way to fluidize an acrylic paint, Windex serve quite well in moderation.  Typically, you would not want to use more than 50% of the volume.  It is also usefull for cleaning up acrylic paint from surfaces prior to drying.

Novaplex 235

 

If you are looking for more traditional art materials, Novaplex 235 is the choice if you do not want to brake the bank.  This is one of several mediums that Nova Color Paints offers.  They are a manufacturer/ distributor for artist quality acrylic mural paints.  I pick up the 32 ounce jar featured in the photo for just $11.75 plus shipping.