I am a newbie and appreciate your explanation that it's basic science and not a chemical reaction. That was more helpful info than I have gleaned in numerous videos of others.
I am a scientist...fascinated by art. I bet I have watched a gazillion pouring videos. Yours is the only one that rings true in my science brain...physics not chemistry! Thanks for this video. I am going out to my shed to play in some paint.
I appreciate your explanation. In your dedication to application you have spent precious time and money. Artist or not.. both are something many do not have. Thank you.
I've lost count of folks who've come to me literally crying because they were so frustrated with all the stupid 'magic' formulas they were finding online. I've even had a few want to give me all their paints and equipment (hundreds of dollars worth) because they thought they were the problem. You, my new friend, and this video will now be my go-to for them to watch. And your last remarks about being an artist is the absolute truth. Not an easy journey but plain old work and practice. It's a commitment to be the best you are capable of being and to never stop learning. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. JCAdams
Steve, I think we are of the age and I get what you mean by having hands and fingers that no longer function like they used to. I started painting about ten years ago after receiving a cancer diagnosis to add to my heart disease and severe arthritis. I'm still ticking though and I'm sure that my passion for painting and working with clay have played a big part in my rather miraculous recovery (from cancer anyway). I still haven't figured out if or how I could attach a few photos of my work to you. I do have quite a few and would like to see what you think of a couple of them. Let me know if that's possible. Thanks Joe
Sorry to see your string of bad luck…but glad to see you successfully pulled through 👍. Would love to see your work. If you are a member of Facebook you can contact me there at Chase Fluid Art.
Thank you for this message an for creating an awesome video . I am new an exploring my creative side an I discover this flow art last year it truly help me to get through the pandemic . Thanks again for your time invested in putting this info together.
Watched this twice and took notes. Thank you so much for explaining what to do and why. I do wish you would make a video of mixing your formulas. Enjoyed your " Bloopers " as well.
After watching hours of video trying to figure out what I was doing wrong, I finally found a video that gives me answers and not a lot of nonsense. I have a much better understanding now. Thank you very much! I actually feel much better now and not defeated.
I like that you took the time to write up a script to read off of to make sure you got everything exact, I think that’s key because it gives you a chance to examine what you want to deliver to your audience, and what they need to know so you don’t miss anything that you want to give them.😉🙏🏻❤️❤️
Finally, some one who truly knows the nitty gritty details of paint pouring! Thank you for making this detailed video. It was logical and easy to understand the components. That first painting you made was so beautiful! I couldn’t stop looking at it!
Hello from central South Carolina. This video is outstanding, confirming that my hit-and-miss struggle for cells, following all the “usual” methods, has often been as I suspected: if I get cells, it was mostly just dumb luck. I am grateful for this video and all the information you’ve shared. I will study this video, take copious notes, and will be attempting your method, using the same products. And now, I am terrifically excited again about fluid pouring. My deep gratitude to you, sir! Happy painting!
My wife just gave me a pouring paint starter kit. I have never considered this style of creating pieces of art as true painting. After having watched ungodly amounts of videos about this method and have been unable to break my mold regarding this technique. Then I finally stumbled across this. Finally someone making sense of it all. Thank you. I will give it a go against my beliefs.
A few years back when I first came across the pouring technique, I was following an artist on YT who was using Lucas paints, and PVA glue diluted with water as medium. The cells she was creating while swiping were stunning! Which only proves that Flo and silicone oil are not indispensable to creating cells ☺ She keeps using the same mix today. Thank you for the very informative material ☺
Being on a limited budget I was at first groaning with all the expense. Well I've been using dollar tree and sometimes Walmart brands and good old Elmer's glue and YIPPIE. Years ago I bought a hair specifically for art projects! I did find out that I'm looking into an attachment that spreads the paint out further than straws 😆
I remember my first look at cells and it was density. Then videos I watched pushed silicon for cells, a couple of drops in each cup. Thanks for bringing me back to density.
Your art is so much more complex than anything I’ve ever seen with flow trawl, or “cell activators” Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. I love your work.❤️
I wonder if your description of what brings cells, natural methods, instead of additives is comparable to contemporary issues or discussions of natural foods vs. processed/fast foods, or natural/homeopathic herbs/minerals vs. processed pharmaceuticals. I like that you stick with artist paint supplies, a more traditional approach. Thx for your instructions and Happy Holidays 2023.
thank you Denker 🙏 I do not believe that a magic chemical forms cells. If that were the case cells would form every time it was used. Rayleigh Taylor explains the effect clearly. Proper ingredient formulation does however play a huge role in ease of success.👍
Thank you so much for this video. My daughter and I have just recently began acrylic pouring. We were going down the wrong path with silicone and floetrol as cell activators! You have thoroughly explained the physical properties of the mediums to produce cells. Thank you so much for the written formulas you shared with everyone. You are the best instructor we have ever seen on TH-cam. Keep up the great work. Rick from North Carolina.
Hi neighbor! I’m hearing from a lot of folks from NC lately. I really appreciate your comments Richard 🙏 thank you so much. I don’t want to leave the impression that the use of silicone a particularly awful approach..a lot of folks like it’s results. I quit using because of the mess trying to get it off the canvas so I could varnish. Obviously I prefer the cleaner approach. While the ingredients are vital what’s important is that they “allow” cells to form not produce them. You are the magic ingredient that makes that happen 👍 Best of luck to you and your daughter on your journeys 🙏
I do have a question. I became confused which at my age, is with more frequency .... the colored paints are to be mixed with the 10 parts to 7 parts recipe or 8 parts to 3 parts (+gel)? Thanks for clarifying this for me.
and I've had the Liquitex version of tar gel for several years for other art...who knew. I have not had problems with cells or the lack thereof since I had done this research when I started years ago. I have tried to explain that pigment density and paint consistency are 2 very different things and have put this information on the Acrylic Pour site many times. As a scientist (biology, chemistry, physics), I appreciate your videos as simple explanation of a complex process and I agree Physics (and not chemistry although they can intertwine) initiates the cell process. I rarely use silicone because of the mess (gets everywhere) and it can foul up the finishing coatings. Love your wry sense of humor!
I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your comments cvknisley🙏 thank you so much. Since I have no background in science it’s wonderful to get professional input on the videos. While they may be long winded and a bit amateurish the subject matter needed to be said. I used silicone for years but I also got tired of the mess and because it was so hard to control. Happy you enjoyed the bloopers. Again I thank you for your input 🙏👍
In your recipe it doesn’t look like you add paint to your “pillow” or first layer, is that right? Just to the first color layer and the top thinner layer?
I hit gold when I found this video thank you so much sir for your trial and errors and your hell bent determination to find out what really works… I was the artist that was struggling because I thought it was a chemical thing running into so many problems my paintings just not working out the way I was seeing it happen on the videosAnd I was beginning to think I couldn’t do it… What a wonderful man, creating wonderful piece of art so beautiful. Thank you so much for your contribution to the art world and please put out more videos you’re a great teacher.
Holle, I just discovered your video and it has given me so much valuable information. I started fluid painting last year but found by trying to learn from others I was just becoming frustrated. So much so that I haven’t even attempted a new painting for a couple months. You are the first of all the artists online that explains thoroughly and in a way I can comprehend. You have given me the ‘ammo’ I have needed to attempt some new paintings. Thank you so much
I'm a little late to the party but I found this very informative and I already wondered about so many people adding drops of minwav wood conditioner to teh american flotrol when I really believed the thin top layer was very different than adding silicone oil to the base layers because the oil floats to the top -just like salad dressing! And I loved that you left the "bloopers" at the end. Thank You.
Thank you so much, I found your video very helpful; appreciate the thorough explanation, your patience and willingness to teach those of us eager to learn! By the way, I did not find your tone negative 😊. The transcript, and walking us through each phase was easy to comprehend, LOVE THE BLOOPERS ❤
Thank you so much! Really clarifies the process so well. I have, up until i viewed your techniques, been super confused and hesitant to try fluid art. 👏 to you!
As a fellow artist myself I can appreciate all the time and effort you have spent perfecting your technique. This is quite a thorough investigation thank you for the knowledge and time and money saved.
Thank you! I am excited to have learned so much in a short amount of time! I can’t wait to mis my paint using your formula and see the results! I SO enjoyed the bloopers at the end of your video 😂 I was laughing out loud and will now forever call ingredients “grediants”. 🤣
Just finished your video for the 4th time. Each time I watch it I learn something new. So much to digest. Thank you for your very understandable explanation. I’m exactly who you described. New to pouring, and not having much luck with my expensive bottle of Ozzy Flotrol. I’m not a scientist, just a frustrated artist. I plan to round up the products you recommend, and am looking forward to having more success with my pouring. Thank you for sharing your very well thought out principles of fluid art. I hope you post more videos sharing your techniques. Your art is stunning. Thank you again from Washington. I’m a fan.
What a wonderful post. You made my day Patty 🙏 thank you so much. My recommendation….until you are comfortable and satisfied with your technique buy in smaller sizes and experiment on small canvases. For me it’s all about how you manipulate the paint that matters the most. Best of luck on your adventure 👍
As a retired professional guitar painter- fascinated by the pour art phenomenon, which I dabble in- it was my job for many years to have consistent and predictable results of my production and craft. Your explanation and theories make a lot of sense- I truly appreciate coming across your channel and look forward to more
As a classical musician who has enjoyed discovering this artform through youtube, discovering your channel is like moving from Andre Rieu to the Berlin Phil.
Just saw your podcast... and it was 3 years ago. Crazy! Thanks for the info and reworking my brain cells. Now it's time to give it a try. Just amazing analytical reasoning...👍
Youre on another level with the pours , most of the ones i saw had pretty basic colors , but yours are more different shades and that creates very beautiful pours =O you have inspired me , thank you !
Loved the bloopers, but more importantly my mind is reeling with all of your spectacular information. I will need to watch this a few more times to soak it all in. Thank you for the immense amount of work you have put into finding what makes cells most successful, and for the sheer amount of time not only working through formulas, etc., but also the amount of time put into making this excellent video. So glad this popped up on my feed today. I will definitely watch to see what else I might learn.
Oh my goodness!!! Loved every bit of your “teachable lecture.” The entirety was extremely helpful and thought provoking I personally appreciated every formula and the breakdown and reasoning. And the very end with the bloopers added an absolute smile / laughter And a fresh breath of humanity and possibilities please keep adding the bloopers a definite mood lifter which we all need. Thank you! Kimberly
Thank you so much for your very kind post Kimberly 🙏 you made my day! I’m so happy that you enjoyed the bloopers because that’s a closer representation of the real me. I know that the rest of the video has to be serious and unfortunately I’m so nervous that it comes across as a bit stiff. The bloopers added a good counterbalance…they will certainly be a fixture in any future videos 🤪
So nice of you Paula 🙏 thank you so much. I have always intended to make another one but unfortunately sometimes life gets in the way. Too many tragic events in my life have occurred since the last video to allow me the right frame of mind to do justice to another one at this time. Perhaps sometime soon.
Thank you so much for this. You and LeftBrainedArtist are the only guys that can explain this stuff so that it makes sense to me. You're so right, there's too many people out there making it sound like chemical reactions, whether they know it or not. Thanks again.
So glad your video popped up in my TH-cam feed tonight !! everything you said makes absolute perfect sense !! I have been doing fluid art for a few years now & in the very beginning fell into the driving myself crazy searching for the perfect "cell creator", luckily I grew tired of it & actually started to prefer most of my work to NOT have any cells & that's when I discovered that it was ME all along !! I started noticing that certain paints gave me different results, metallics especially & In the beginning I was also wrapped up in trying to measure out every single product I was using the same way & that's really when everything else started falling into place, as I got tired of always trying to get perfect measurements I gave up on measuring anything & realized that the different body/types & brands of paints all needed something different than another, so I really just got the hang of everything by accident but was very relieved to let go of all the info I had crammed into my head from all the different artists I had been watching & I started getting the results I had been wanting all along. The the big Shelee Bloom hit the Art world & TH-cam was flooded with the "Bloom Technique" & everyone going crazy & then getting angry after PAYING to take the Shelee Bloom class & not being told that the main "magical ingredient" was the Aussie Floetrol & was next to impossible to get in the US, then all the HUNDREDS of experiments & suggestions came flooding out. While I did love the look of the Technique I really just didn't want to get back on the crazy train of spending $100's trying to keep up with all the new ideas & solutions coming out every single day, so I just stuck with my own little ideas & played around a bit & came very close to getting the same results (only less dramatic) by just using products that I already had. Had I seen this AMAZING video back then, it definitely would have been a great game changer !! I am excited to give your Liquitex/Floetrol formula a try. I never really wanted to do just "Blooms" & always thought it would be so much more exciting to be able to get the same results on larger canvases & now you have opened up that world for me !! As I mentioned, I have learned things on my own by mistake about mixing, density, pigments & such but never knew the how's & why's of everything so I thank you VERY VERY much for all your time & effort put into being able to create such an informative & amazing video that has & will continue to help sooooo many newer as well as established Artists understand more of the Science behind the Art !! I can only imagine the HUNDREDS & HUNDREDS of Artists/beginners who could have saved themselves Hundreds of dollars wasted on taking the "Bloom Class" & being told they were in No Way permitted to speak of or tell Anyone about the "magical" ingredients they learned of in the class only to find out after that the "magical" ingredients weren't even available to them & then had to spend even more money trying to figure out suitable alternatives. To me, you are a Hero in the Art world !!! Thanks again !! 😊😊😊
@@chasefluidart4341 I only paint as a hobby & usually just give my work to family & friends & do a few things for my own home decor & the occasional commission when requested, I never had any interest in creating videos or having a TH-cam channel. I took about a year off & am just getting back into creating, I've developed a huge interest in doing some abstract work using brushes & wedges & seeing how that goes, & now, after seeing your video I absolutely HAVE to play with your "recipes" !! You have really inspired me to look at my own ideas & creative thoughts differently & I think that is definitely going to make a huge difference in how my artwork turns out !! I can't wait to share this video with some fellow artists that have become friends since I started my journey, I know they will be just as excited. !! 😊😊
again you floor me 🙏 I see myself in your words! I love the fact that you don’t see money as your motivator and that your true joy with paint is creating what pleases your soul. My guess is that you are a very happy person and a true artist🙏
That was fabulous to watch and learn from...I'm pretty new on the acrylic pour method but I am also soooo glad to hear from you about not using sillicone to create cells. I also feel that it is total madness....the artist is and should be in control of their creation and not rely on some chemical reaction. I am still getting my head around the formulas you use to mix the paint and the pouring mediums and different pigments consistencies in the acrylics....sooooo much to learn in regards to the acrylic pour method...and keeping it organic so to speak. Thank you so much again🌷🌷
I really appreciate your logical and scientific approach! I feel like I learn things so much better when presented with such a thorough explanation. Thanks so much!
Steve ! You are awesome! Thank you so much for the words of wisdom! 😊 I have been busting my butt trying to figure out all these techniques for the past 1 1/2 years. I am truly flabbergasted that some art snobs think there is nothing to it. Yeah right. Anyway, I absolutely love this art and continue to learn because of people like you! God bless, wish I had found you sooner. Honestly, your video makes more sense once we have exhausted so many options. Your art is so beautiful and amazing!
This video makes the scientist in me sooo happy!!! I love fluid art because it's the perfect marrying of science and art. It's incredibly technical and about as scientific as art can get, but it's also incredibly expressive, and so beautiful and full of emotion, overflowing with details! Thank you for putting names to the physics I knew was there and explaining what my science mind was trying to pick apart. I cannot wait to try some mediums of my own and see what I can achieve with my new knowledge! THANK YOU SO MUCH for sharing!
Thank you! I’ve watched so many videos where the artist will say things like “wish me luck” or”Let’s hope this works “! Thanks for explaining how it works!!! Great video!
I’m really really new to this and I thank you for explaining the physics behind this . I had a friend who developed paint for Rolls Royce who demand high standards and the physics of paint is a high technical art . I hate silicon in paintings so I’m really happy to learn about paint densities . I use Amsterdam titanium white and water to create cells ( or enable the physics to do so ) . Thank you so much , from the UK where I can’t work out exactly what Floetrol is , American or Australian.
I really appreciate your kind and on point comments KayElleKay 🙏 thank you so much. Flotrol is just a paint conditioner and a good way to thin the mix.
I just came across this video👍👍👍 my dad was a chemical engineer so to hear you explain this, is like my dad, as if he was there with you. Thank you 😎❣️
I’m a 45yr artistic finisher of furniture and cabinetry. Time to hang it up cause I’m old and physically unable to do such a hard demanding line of artistic finishing. Especially doing reface and refinishing cabinetry. That said I’ve been motivated to produce canvas paintings that I can envelope my type of work into. I’ve applied several types of acrylics to various wood and sought out colors thin yet dense enough to have the wood grains come through yet have the detail showing contrast to the amounts of thinly applied techniques. You have motivated me to know how to break down and apply acrylics to not only grain showing with activation of cells and distinct color variations. My success has shown through in doing mountain landscapes, colorful pheasants, and psychedelic renditions that mimic your lovely cell work on canvas. Silicone and solvent based lacquers and varnishes are wonderful together as they separate and show off as your work does so beautifully. Thank you for your detailed explanations and professional videos. You’re withdrawing the subscription and I will dive into your work. 👍🏻
Your work is beautiful. I think it's your sense of color that catches my eye. The knowledge that you offered here is by far the best explanation of the processes involved in this style of painting. I am for ever grateful that I found you on You tube and have subbed so that I can come back to really dig in to this new fountain of knowledge!! Thanks so much for taking the time to share your experiences and your humor!
Thank you SO much for this video! I, along with many others, went straight down the rabbit hole chasing those elusive cells. I wish I would have had seen your video before watching all the others. I started off simply with floetrol and water, and got some really cool pieces at first, then went totally sideways with all the other nonsense. I’m back to my simple starting point, but thrilled to try some of your techniques. Please keep making videos! I love your practical approach, and LOVED your bloopers! Your paintings are pretty awesome as well! Thanks again 😉
I knew the rabbit hole wasn't really doing what was said, but I couldn't find ingredient lists. I am highly allergic to latex, even the fake kind. Walmart house paint could send me to the hospital. I have a BS in biology with a chemistry minor. Physics appealed to me as well as psychology. And math. And poetry. And teaching. I love to learn. I'm loving this!
@@chasefluidart4341 I just ordered all the products you’ve mentioned. I have made several hundred and always wished they were a little shinier. I stack them on several bookshelves so I thought the varnish would make them stick together Sometimes I use coconut oil when giving them out. Thank you for all the precious information. 🌈🌈
I am BEYOND happy that I found your video!! This is SO helpful!! I just tried my 1st pours a couple days ago and they turned out OK but not quite the way I wanted. This helps me so much!!!
Thank you for easily explaining and giving your mixtures! As a pharmacist, it never made sense when it was explained as chemical reactions. I use PVA glue and water, but look forward to your mixtures!
Based on this video, I had my first very successful painting with loads of cell formations using your formulas! I also tried using Colour Arte Primary Elements Art Pigments (one scoop of pigment powder to 50 g of your main mix color pouring medium) for two of the eight colors I used. It gave the painting a fantastic bit of shimmer. Thank you again! This video makes a world of difference.
It’s so very nice of you Paula 🙏 to share your comments…many thanks. YOU make the cells form…the formulas simply allow it to happen. Well done…keep up the good work 👍
Floetrol is way to expensive here in New Zealand too. I wasn't going to watch your bloopers but glad I did. To see you laugh and smile after your straight faced presentation was priceless. Thank you for sharing. You've given me a deeper understanding of paint, conditioners and the process.
There are so many different fluid art techniques and ways to achieve cells out there but you hit the nail on the head in that the most important thing is paint densities, paint consistencies and gravity. With all of that you really need to get to know your paints, mediums and what you select for your “cell activator”, if you are using a top layer of sorts or just the density of your paints, to achieve the results you want. There are a hundred ways to go about it but having tried and true products/recipes will help minimize some steps but there will always be some trial and error as your environment will also play a role. What works for you won’t necessarily work exactly for me without a little tweaking and vice versa. Really great food for thought video Steve, thank you so much for making it! 🤗💜
Thank you so much for your comments Jody🙏. Coming from you it means a lot because I have always appreciated and admired your approach...getting down in the trenches and experimenting to see how things really work. It’s refreshing to see someone share their perspective for the pure joy of the art itself ...freely given and a big help to all.👍
Thank You for sharing your thoughts and knowledge about this process with us...You are 1 of only 2 artists that I regularly watch, who have actually Come out and and stated how overused the term "cell activator" is used. I have always used Floetrol and Liquitex Gloss Pouring Medium for my Pouring medium, and I have not had a problem with creating cells in my paintings except when I didn't mix my Paints correctly, and they were either to thin or to thick...And after doing some research and just simply reading a few articles, Australian Floetrol is just the same as the Floetrol that we get here except for the fact that US Floetrol is thicker then the Australian version. So, in essence,all they have done is taken US Floetrol and added more water to it and started calling it Australian Floetrol and charging 2x the price of just regular Floetrol...And all Floetrol is for really is just to aid your Paints in self leveling, and it helps to cut down on the actual amount of paint that you use in each painting. So, Thank you again for this video, and sharing with us.
I absolutely love your post Nikki 🙏 thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. As a thinner I like Australian Flotrol. It’s consistency is great and it’s chemical make up is so simple that it doesn’t interfere with the process. I believe that the Australian Flotrol is not just watered down American Flotrol. The American Flotrol just ups the ante and adds complexity to the product with additional ingredients. We both know that neither one of these products magically produce cells…they are simply thinners. Unfortunately too many people believe the hype about magic elixirs and the company in Australia took advantage of ignorance with outrageous pricing. It’s gouging …and Homie don’t play that game!
I’m a beginner at this fluid art journey, but I see things just the opposite. I never was led to believe that cells were formed by a chemical action. I always heard from the various artists that it was a balance of the right densities and thicknesses of the layers. I heard much more about the chemical composition of the various paints and thinners from you than I ever heard anywhere else. That being said, your work is beautiful (apparently you know what you’re doing) and I’ll look for more of your videos. Thank you
Yes Finally an explanation by an intelligent person willing share how to make this art more affordable and what is going on with this paint pouring. Thank you for making this video
Whelp! You got me! I've been at "beginners level" FAR too long and I hit a slump! Now I see why. If you're able to comprehend every bit of this tutorial in a way that's applicable to fluid painting, then you're ready to get outta the crafts section and move on to serious, sellable artwork! Thanks SO much for this & for putting it in writing & list format for shopping. That was super generous of you and I'm truly sorry that, in the end, it broke your brain. 🤯 Sending love & hope for your speedy cerebral recovery.😁🤣
Oh I love your comments Mamacado 🙏 thank you so much…just to be clear..my brain has been broken for a very long time …the video just added to it 🤪 I see little hope for recovery.
@@chasefluidart4341 I'm Yvette in NC and I, too, am brain-broke! Oddly this reminds me of David Bowie's song, "Five Years." I've found his dystopian prediction in the lyrics very befitting of the state of things, especially when the whole sky fell at once a few yrs back. He sings about "the warehouse being full from cramming so much in there." 😳 But, the way see it, I'ma go down learnin'. Why not. It's certainly NOT on trend. The bandwagon has plenty of vacant seats. So Please... JOIN ME! 🤣🤣🤣 Thanks for that laugh! I needed it. 😁
@@chasefluidart4341 I KNEW that was a SC accent! TOTALLY different from NC! I have it too. Born & raised in Lake View on a tobacco farm w/grandparents, surrounded by family. 1 hour from the redneck riviera! 🤣 HA! (Even closer to S.O.B. What, NO Sombrero emoji. Yeah I know..😒lol) My dad's dad was Sen Jack Lindsay, (D) Bennettsville. I KNOW you knew him in SOME capacity. I'm a FMC alum. (Before it was a "U" 🤣) Without looking I'm guessing Spartanburg/Greenville with a nagging hint of maybe Cola. (NO ONE gets this cryptic thread but us. 😂)
I finally took the time to watch your video, because I'm impatient, but after watching your video, I realized being impatient does not work well in this art! What a volume of education and knowledge you shared in this video, and after slowing down and taking your advice, I finally did a pour that produced cells! Thank you for sharing your knowledge! Thank you!!!!!
Finally was able to fully view the entire video for the first time. Have taken notes, tar gel arrives tomorrow, and yes, paint density/gravity ALWAYS made the most sense to me. Loved the bloopers! Lots of giggles. You did a great job on this, and all your effort is so appreciated! And, finally, I, too, live in Irmo. Should I get hung up on this, I might PM you on your Facebook fluid art page, and I hope that’s ok with you. Best wishes to you, sir, and happy painting!
What a great video. I, like I am sure others, have become so frustrated and overwhelmed with all the formulas out there. Thank you so much for doing the hard work of experimenting. Everything you said made sense to me.
Fantastic! In university chemistry, I learned five important items to identify a chemical reaction: 1) an evolution of gas 2) the formation of a precipitate 3) a change in color 4) a change in temperature 5) a change in state. I love this art form, but when TH-camrs doing acrylic pours call it a chemical reaction I kind of cringe.
I am so excited to try this formula. Over the years the number of products I am using is through the roof! 1st formula 10 parts liquitex 4 parts floetrol mix 7 parts paint Floetrol mix is (.5 floetrol to .8 water) 2nd formula 4 parts Golden clear tar gel 10 parts Floetrol mix Than 8 parts of this floetrol thinner 3 part paint
Steve, just finished your “what is the ultimate cell activator?” The details are amazing, you had convinced me you are a retired teacher. I logged your recipes & comments in my Paint notepad. Loved the bloopers too‼️💜 Thanks for putting this out there kind Sir‼️💕💜🎨🎨
Thank you! When I first started I was always getting cells, then when I actually tried to get cells (after watching a ton of videos) I couldn't! Now I know why, makes complete sense to me now. Your paintings are amazing & I hope you keep making videos. (Plus I found you're bloopers hilarious!)
This makes so much sense to me (and I’ve not even poured my first paints yet! I have been an artist for decades, so I understand the physical feel of the paints and mediums), I just hate the idea of wasting paint… which brings me to my question : I know that tar gel and string gel have a similar consistency and viscosity, and I’m in possession of the latter, not the former. Do you think it’s a safe bet? I have all other ingredients you’ve mentioned, in addition to liquitex gloss medium, flow-aid, GAC 500, and, and polycrylic, wood conditioner, and a few others…. Any feedback would be amazing. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HARD WORK ON THIS. You’re a rock star! 🥰🤗
You are extremely kind Maria🙏 many thanks. I tried both with similar results. I don’t remember why I went with tar gel over string gel but obviously I prefer it. Wood conditioner is a HUGE NO.
Thank you so much! I’m pretty new to fluid art and, of course, spent a lot of time cruising youtube to see how things worked. I couldn’t understand how so many people kept talking about “chemical reactions” when it seemed clear based on just playing with paints and mediums that it had to be all about physics: density, viscosity, pressure, adherence, etc. You have clarified my disjointed observations and given me a much clearer “road map” to achieving different results. Great work!
I found your comments very refreshing Margaret🙏 thank you so much. You nailed it 👍 it’s not magic…it’s common sense and clearly you understand what’s really important. If I was able to reinforce your conclusions all the better…you made my day by letting me know. Many thanks
Thank you for this video. I’m glad there is someone like you with a platform to get this info out. It’s not rocket science and I feel more people will have fun with fluid art when they hear your message. Also, this type of art produces quick results, but if people would be more patient working with this style of art they would see different results.
Thank you for this video, i'ts explained a lot and saved me from spending even more money on 'magic' ingredients So glad I stumbled on this vid . Btw love your paintings. They are brilliant .And thanx for not mentioning me 😆
I like this guy. He cuts to the chase. I've just spent a fortune on paint, pouring medium, aussie floetrol. I've been using oils for 25 years and am now trying acrylic pouring. Had I listened to this rather those that spout aussie floetrol makes cells, which I'm yet to see.
@chasefluidart4341 I am using reeves acrylics, they're Australian. It has been impossible to find someone doing acrylic pouring in NZ or Aussie that can guide for products in my neck of the woods. I wish these acrylic pouring people would explain just how difficult it actually is for a first time pourer. They make it look so simple. Like cooking all the right elements need to come together for a recipe to be 100%. Any help at all would be appreciated. I don't have anything to spin with yet so I'll have to try getting cells and lacing some other way. I really get your no nonsense attitude. Thank you.
Thank you Louise 🙏 my best advice is to study the Reighly Taylor instability. It explains clearly how cells form. Yes two different densities of paint, layered, will form cells naturally but force will do it quickly and more abundantly. Concentrate on your use of force.
I would love to see a video of you mixing the medium, then adding the paint. Consistency. Thank you so much. Can't believe I have just found your channel.
Thank you so much Lynn 🙏 the videos are so long… I just thought it was an unnecessary addition. I don’t do anything special…it’s very straightforward. I appreciate your watching 👍
That was the best, most detailed explanation of cell activation that I've seen. I have spent so much money on various paints, mediums, etc. only to have wasted many canvases and made so many messes. I'm just about at the point of giving up and then I see this - ok, one more thing to buy - tar gel - and I will, because I'd really love to be able to create cells with this much ease. And at this point I'm heavily invested in Amsterdam paints, Liquitex, DecoArt, Floetrol, Aus. Floetrol etc. Just to name a few...I feel like I should have probably just purchased someone else's art instead of spending all this $$$ on chasing a hobby that has been frustrating. Ok, off to order the Tar Gel now - thank you for the video and the thorough explanation. Now what do I do with all those CA's? (Minwax wood conditioner, Coconut hair product, Silicone Treadmill oil, etc.)
I got chills reading your comments Sue 🙏 thank you so much. Your situation is the driving force behind the video because I have been there too. Ingredients and consistency’s are absolutely vital but the simpler you can make the process the better. The real key is learning how to apply enough... delicate ....force to make the pigment counteract. All the best in your adventure 👍
Steve, what an amazing teaching video! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I have in the past explained it to outsiders as a chemical reaction but I'm so grateful that you've clarified that it is consistency and force more than anything else. I see you're going to make a video regarding force...can you please include any tips to practicing my force? I would be ever so grateful as I really struggle with it. 😁
I appreciate it Margaret 🙏 thank you so much. The mindset behind these videos is that I understand that I am not a teacher. I try to convey my personal observations and then demonstrate how I go about solving the riddle….so it’s really just one man’s opinion. The next video about force will be much the same. Observing the effects of force and how I apply it to fit my physical limitations from having COPD. So it will demonstrate my use of an air compressor. Whether or not that can relate or give you tips for your own personal methods I don’t know….hopefully it will. Again many thanks for your comments 🙏
Happy to see/hear someone who’s not afraid to speak out! Because you’re so right this is physical and not chemical. THANK YOU 💐. My question is what thinner to use, since I live in Norway. I can’t find any of the thinners I have seen in utube videos. Would you happen to know???? (If not, don’t stress yourself ….) Else on an island in western Norway. 😇😇😇
Hello, Steve. Thanks for a great instructional video, full of useful details, insight into the beautiful gestation of an amazing work, and the bloopers. Awesome work. One question: I have tried to find the Behr base, but the medium seems to be retired by the manufacturer. HD does not have it, and a web search shows it only in a couple of somehow obscure eBay links. Do you know of any other reliable ways to get the medium? Have you tried any others that satisfy your need for neutrality? I hope you overcome any problems keeping you from producing more videos. Be well, in peace :)
I really appreciate your comments Carlos 🙏 thank you so much. I was not aware that the Behr was retired…my local HD must have an abundance of it. The new line …Dynasty …they have works just fine but needs to be thinned more.👍
I work part-time at HD and can assure you the paint is still available. They have a few lines of paint with Dynasty being their new flagship. They also carry their last few iterations. The important thing you want is called 'Deep Base'. There is also a mid-tone and an ultra-white. The "deep base' has the least amount of paint pigment (there's still a tiny bit but it won't affect your other pigments) and is used to mix darker colors ( look at the front label near the top of the can it will say Deep Base). You don't want it mixed with any pigment at all. You'll be using it right out of the can. Dynasty is indeed very thick almost like Elmer's glue in thickness but please don't use Elmers in your artwork. It's glue, not a painting medium despite what some videos claim. Steve's video is spot on. Follow it to a tee and you'll create superb cell painting. I suggest learning more about paints and mediums you watch Golden and Liquite's videos on their mediums. There are quite a few that all do something different. For instance, GAC 800 by Golden helps prevent cracks in thicker paint applications and either companies iridescent will give a nice sheen. Painting is a journey with a lot of things to learn and endless possibilities. Learning the basics will help you avoid a lot of frustration and wasted paint and money. This video is a must for anyone who wants to create beautiful art.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I am getting back into this and your approach makes so much sense. I will be following you and hopefully producing some beautiful work of my own.
correct! funny how younger knows more than those with years of experiences far ahead of them. sad we do not value apprenticeship in this country anymore from elderly anymore. perfect example. great advice and info, explained perfectly. yea, always gets to me where someone makes a video thinking they are someone today invented some technique, when in fact many things been going on for almost 100 yrs. lol thank you for your time! very informative and if you find out what also works for gel in diy, hope you let us know. is something i am trying to figure out. hate depending on any company., one costly product lol yea u refuse to allow these product ceo's to gouge my pocketbook. i wont pay that for Austrian floetrol myself.
I am so glad I ran into your video. I started out hating pour’s because of all the waist of paint. I thought it was a easy sloppy art form. But then I saw a painting in my dentist’s office and fell in love. So I sought out trying to find paint on line. As I was searching o got so confused by all the CA and flow out there. Thus thinking do I have to buy all this stuff for a beautiful painting it was in the hundreds. Thank you for saving me money.
I have watched hundreds of paint pouring videos and not heard anyone say that 'Floetrol' creates cells . Silicone yes , Floetrol no . Having said that, you're information is great and so is you're art !
Come on, are you kidding me!!!!? Australian Floetrol is ALL everyone talks about when referencing cell production in pour painting! It's their so- called "secret, magic additive" & offer different alternatives if you aren't so lucky to acquire it. & yes, Of coarse silicone, but that's a completely different way to produce cells (which, in the long run, I do NOT recommend.) It's a total pain to use. It creates deep indentions in your paintings which have to be cleaned completely of ALL silicone if you plan on using epoxy ( or any sealant, really) to seal & protect your painting. Silicone repels everything!!!
I agree with the commercial use of the term cell activator. I had a rant or two about this issue 😅 I appreciate all the work and time that mustt have gone into the making and sharing of your videos.
Hi there, I’m so glad you’ve brought this up, and I so agree!! I feel like so much emphasis is being placed on “naming a technique”, or naming a mix, naming, naming, naming! To name something and make people think it was some sort of invention is wrong, and really not fair to all the others people out there, who for years before them have been pouring, mixing, swiping, and using various ways and methods. I have a real problem with the naming of every aspect of this art form, and feel it must be so daunting for new pour enthusiasts. Thanks for bringing this up, glad it wasn’t just me thinking this ☺️. Way to go!
Until your video, I thought the same thing! That there was some magic activator. I've also heard of using silicone and I didn't want to do that for a couple of reasons but the main one being I really wanted to know how to make cells without it and had some concerns over drying time and I want my work to be archival. So thank you for clearing that up, although I had to watch your video several times. Anyway with the help of your video I took the courage to spend the money and buy several items you suggested and I was not disappointed as these were the first poor paintings I've ever done. Thank you! By the way love your work.
Hi Steve, Ok, second and third time watching/listening/taking notes... Really learning - and eye opening. Couple of questions: Main Mix Thinner - you using "only" Polycrylic? (and not the Thinner mixture you mentioned for the Top Layer Mix)? So then you actually have 2 Thinners - one for the Main Mix, and another for the Top Layer Mix? You mentioned (only briefly) about the "Base Layer/Mix" - being the same mixture/ratios as your Main Mix? And so then depending on your Base Layer pigment/color preference - you do a 10% paint to medium ratio? How much does the Base Layer color actually matter? (asking since I've not done anything like that yet) Top Layer Mix - white/black - do you, or have you used other colors? Again, I'm sure it's personal preferences, and I ask because as I watched this Video - I keep wanting to know how the painting over YOUR right shoulder in this video was done? It doesn't appear to have black (or white) as the Top Layer mix (if it was even done using this method) ??? Anyhow - I've got you Subscribed - and pending Tar Gel - and some physical setup - I can't wait to start experimenting. Thank you for your time, and any time spent on answering these questions!! :)
Hi Jeffrey ... thank you so much for watching 🙏. Yes the main mix only uses Polycrylic for a thinner. The top layer mix only uses something like the tar gel mix. The colors all have the same formula and that includes the base...color doesn’t matter for the base. I do use different colors for the top layer mix but deep colors like black seem to look better to my eye...just personal preference. The painting over my shoulder was done years ago it’s a dirty pour technique using silicon oil. Hope everything works out for you.... I’m here if you need anything👍
I am a newbie and appreciate your explanation that it's basic science and not a chemical reaction. That was more helpful info than I have gleaned in numerous videos of others.
I appreciate it Carol 🙏 thank you so much.
Finally an actual artist with good information. Thank you
Very kind of you Ricqua🙏 Thank you very much
I am a scientist...fascinated by art. I bet I have watched a gazillion pouring videos. Yours is the only one that rings true in my science brain...physics not chemistry! Thanks for this video. I am going out to my shed to play in some paint.
Thank you so much carlacrazymom 🙏 very nice of you.
Yeah, I always just knew that from science.
Dr. Chase is one of the best scientist when it comes to acrylics and his explanations with cell activators.
I appreciate it Robert 🙏 very kind of you.
Thank you so much I am 78 and just learning and you just answered a question I have been asking for the year
Thank you so much Linda 🙏 I appreciate it.
I appreciate your explanation. In your dedication to application you have spent precious time and money. Artist or not.. both are something many do not have. Thank you.
So true Rudewayz141 🙏 it’s a matter of personal choice and perhaps sacrifice for things you love. Thank you for your comments👍
@@chasefluidart4341
"Bless Your Dear and Compassionate Heart".
I've lost count of folks who've come to me literally crying because they were so frustrated with all the stupid 'magic' formulas they were finding online. I've even had a few want to give me all their paints and equipment (hundreds of dollars worth) because they thought they were the problem. You, my new friend, and this video will now be my go-to for them to watch. And your last remarks about being an artist is the absolute truth. Not an easy journey but plain old work and practice. It's a commitment to be the best you are capable of being and to never stop learning. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. JCAdams
You are very kind Joe 🙏 thank you so much. You made my day👍
Steve, I think we are of the age and I get what you mean by having hands and fingers that no longer function like they used to. I started painting about ten years ago after receiving a cancer diagnosis to add to my heart disease and severe arthritis. I'm still ticking though and I'm sure that my passion for painting and working with clay have played a big part in my rather miraculous recovery (from cancer anyway). I still haven't figured out if or how I could attach a few photos of my work to you. I do have quite a few and would like to see what you think of a couple of them. Let me know if that's possible. Thanks Joe
Sorry to see your string of bad luck…but glad to see you successfully pulled through 👍. Would love to see your work. If you are a member of Facebook you can contact me there at Chase Fluid Art.
Thank you for this message an for creating an awesome video . I am new an exploring my creative side an I discover this flow art last year it truly help me to get through the pandemic .
Thanks again for your time invested in putting this info together.
Thank you so much Ulalee 🙏 sorry it took so long to reply…just saw your post this morning…you are very kind.
Watched this twice and took notes. Thank you so much for explaining what to do and why. I do wish you would make a video of mixing your formulas. Enjoyed your " Bloopers " as well.
Very kind of you Annette 🙏 thank you so much.
I absolutely took notes too!
After watching hours of video trying to figure out what I was doing wrong, I finally found a video that gives me answers and not a lot of nonsense. I have a much better understanding now. Thank you very much! I actually feel much better now and not defeated.
Thank you so much K🙏 I really appreciate it.
I like that you took the time to write up a script to read off of to make sure you got everything exact, I think that’s key because it gives you a chance to examine what you want to deliver to your audience, and what they need to know so you don’t miss anything that you want to give them.😉🙏🏻❤️❤️
I really appreciate that juice-man 🙏 thank you so much.
Finally, some one who truly knows the nitty gritty details of paint pouring! Thank you for making this detailed video. It was logical and easy to understand the components. That first painting you made was so beautiful! I couldn’t stop looking at it!
Extremely kind of you Pamela 🙏many thanks.
Science meets art - not chemistry, but fluid dynamics. This is lovely and I appreciate your detailed explanation.
Thank you very much Kimberly 🙏 I appreciate it.
Hello from central South Carolina. This video is outstanding, confirming that my hit-and-miss struggle for cells, following all the “usual” methods, has often been as I suspected: if I get cells, it was mostly just dumb luck. I am grateful for this video and all the information you’ve shared. I will study this video, take copious notes, and will be attempting your method, using the same products. And now, I am terrifically excited again about fluid pouring. My deep gratitude to you, sir! Happy painting!
Thank you so much Paula and hello from Irmo...small world👍. Your comments are very kind and I appreciate it 🙏
I was thinking I recognized the accent...I spent 40yrs in Greenville & Myrtle Beach. 😁
@@7fossilfiend ❤️ yes you nailed it…always great to hear from a home grown girl!
Always great to hear from a neighbor Chris 🙏 many thanks for your comments.👍
Hi Paula! I’m in upstate South Carolina. ☺️
My wife just gave me a pouring paint starter kit. I have never considered this style of creating pieces of art as true painting. After having watched ungodly amounts of videos about this method and have been unable to break my mold regarding this technique. Then I finally stumbled across this. Finally someone making sense of it all. Thank you. I will give it a go against my beliefs.
You are very kind David 🙏 many thanks.
A few years back when I first came across the pouring technique, I was following an artist on YT who was using Lucas paints, and PVA glue diluted with water as medium. The cells she was creating while swiping were stunning! Which only proves that Flo and silicone oil are not indispensable to creating cells ☺ She keeps using the same mix today.
Thank you for the very informative material ☺
I appreciate it Kasia 🙏 thank you so much.
Being on a limited budget I was at first groaning with all the expense. Well I've been using dollar tree and sometimes Walmart brands and good old Elmer's glue and YIPPIE. Years ago I bought a hair specifically for art projects! I did find out that I'm looking into an attachment that spreads the paint out further than straws 😆
I remember my first look at cells and it was density. Then videos I watched pushed silicon for cells, a couple of drops in each cup. Thanks for bringing me back to density.
Many thanks Martin 🙏 I appreciate it.
Just bought Behr 2453, HD didn't have 3453, and with tax =$61.73. It has been awhile since I bought house paint.
@@martinm3474 👍
Your art is so much more complex than anything I’ve ever seen with flow trawl, or “cell activators”
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. I love your work.❤️
Thank you so much cthepower 🙏 very kind of you.
I wonder if your description of what brings cells, natural methods, instead of additives is comparable to contemporary issues or discussions of natural foods vs. processed/fast foods, or natural/homeopathic herbs/minerals vs. processed pharmaceuticals. I like that you stick with artist paint supplies, a more traditional approach. Thx for your instructions and Happy Holidays 2023.
thank you Denker 🙏 I do not believe that a magic chemical forms cells. If that were the case cells would form every time it was used. Rayleigh Taylor explains the effect clearly. Proper ingredient formulation does however play a huge role in ease of success.👍
I’ve been almost in tears in my frustration with the ratios and products to use.
Thank you so much!!!
Your explanation has given me hope!
Many thanks Cheryl 🙏 hope it helps
Thank you so much for this video. My daughter and I have just recently began acrylic pouring. We were going down the wrong path with silicone and floetrol as cell activators! You have thoroughly explained the physical properties of the mediums to produce cells. Thank you so much for the written formulas you shared with everyone. You are the best instructor we have ever seen on TH-cam. Keep up the great work. Rick from North Carolina.
Hi neighbor! I’m hearing from a lot of folks from NC lately. I really appreciate your comments Richard 🙏 thank you so much. I don’t want to leave the impression that the use of silicone a particularly awful approach..a lot of folks like it’s results. I quit using because of the mess trying to get it off the canvas so I could varnish. Obviously I prefer the cleaner approach. While the ingredients are vital what’s important is that they “allow” cells to form not produce them. You are the magic ingredient that makes that happen 👍 Best of luck to you and your daughter on your journeys 🙏
I agree 100%! I have such respect 🙏
Very kind of you Life with Bear 🙏 thank you so much
Best information EVER divulged on ANY pouring video I have EVER seen. You are soooooo appreciated!!
And you are so appreciated by me Linda 🙏 many thanks 🙏
I do have a question. I became confused which at my age, is with more frequency .... the colored paints are to be mixed with the 10 parts to 7 parts recipe or 8 parts to 3 parts (+gel)? Thanks for clarifying this for me.
OH....Nevermind. I just noticed that you included that info in your writ!!
@@lindamil8885 👍
@@lindamil8885 …got it…thanks🙏
and I've had the Liquitex version of tar gel for several years for other art...who knew. I have not had problems with cells or the lack thereof since I had done this research when I started years ago. I have tried to explain that pigment density and paint consistency are 2 very different things and have put this information on the Acrylic Pour site many times. As a scientist (biology, chemistry, physics), I appreciate your videos as simple explanation of a complex process and I agree Physics (and not chemistry although they can intertwine) initiates the cell process. I rarely use silicone because of the mess (gets everywhere) and it can foul up the finishing coatings. Love your wry sense of humor!
I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your comments cvknisley🙏 thank you so much. Since I have no background in science it’s wonderful to get professional input on the videos. While they may be long winded and a bit amateurish the subject matter needed to be said. I used silicone for years but I also got tired of the mess and because it was so hard to control. Happy you enjoyed the bloopers. Again I thank you for your input 🙏👍
In your recipe it doesn’t look like you add paint to your “pillow” or first layer, is that right? Just to the first color layer and the top thinner layer?
I hit gold when I found this video thank you so much sir for your trial and errors and your hell bent determination to find out what really works… I was the artist that was struggling because I thought it was a chemical thing running into so many problems my paintings just not working out the way I was seeing it happen on the videosAnd I was beginning to think I couldn’t do it… What a wonderful man, creating wonderful piece of art so beautiful. Thank you so much for your contribution to the art world and please put out more videos you’re a great teacher.
I am deeply touched by your comments Jenese 🙏 thank you so much.
Holle, I just discovered your video and it has given me so much valuable information. I started fluid painting last year but found by trying to learn from others I was just becoming frustrated. So much so that I haven’t even attempted a new painting for a couple months.
You are the first of all the artists online that explains thoroughly and in a way I can comprehend. You have given me the ‘ammo’ I have needed to attempt some new paintings. Thank you so much
I love your comments 1403ram 🙏 thank you so much. All the best on your adventure 👍
I'm a little late to the party but I found this very informative and I already wondered about so many people adding drops of minwav wood conditioner to teh american flotrol when I really believed the thin top layer was very different than adding silicone oil to the base layers because the oil floats to the top -just like salad dressing! And I loved that you left the "bloopers" at the end. Thank You.
Many thanks bbrown8353 🙏 I appreciate your comments.
Thank you so much, I found your video very helpful; appreciate the thorough explanation, your patience and willingness to teach those of us eager to learn! By the way, I did not find your tone negative 😊. The transcript, and walking us through each phase was easy to comprehend, LOVE THE BLOOPERS ❤
Thank you so much Kimberly 🙏 you are very kind.
Thank you so much! Really clarifies the process so well. I have, up until i viewed your techniques, been super confused and hesitant to try fluid art. 👏 to you!
So nice of you eswalker 🙏 many thanks.
As a fellow artist myself I can appreciate all the time and effort you have spent perfecting your technique. This is quite a thorough investigation thank you for the knowledge and time and money saved.
Really nice of you After The Storm 🙏 many thanks.
Thank you! I am excited to have learned so much in a short amount of time! I can’t wait to mis my paint using your formula and see the results! I SO enjoyed the bloopers at the end of your video 😂 I was laughing out loud and will now forever call ingredients “grediants”. 🤣
Love your comments Kathy 🙏 thank you so much
Just finished your video for the 4th time. Each time I watch it I learn something new. So much to digest. Thank you for your very understandable explanation. I’m exactly who you described. New to pouring, and not having much luck with my expensive bottle of Ozzy Flotrol. I’m not a scientist, just a frustrated artist. I plan to round up the products you recommend, and am looking forward to having more success with my pouring. Thank you for sharing your very well thought out principles of fluid art. I hope you post more videos sharing your techniques. Your art is stunning. Thank you again from Washington. I’m a fan.
What a wonderful post. You made my day Patty 🙏 thank you so much. My recommendation….until you are comfortable and satisfied with your technique buy in smaller sizes and experiment on small canvases. For me it’s all about how you manipulate the paint that matters the most. Best of luck on your adventure 👍
As a retired professional guitar painter- fascinated by the pour art phenomenon, which I dabble in- it was my job for many years to have consistent and predictable results of my production and craft. Your explanation and theories make a lot of sense- I truly appreciate coming across your channel and look forward to more
Many thanks for your kind comments interstitialmusings1🙏 I really appreciate it.
As a classical musician who has enjoyed discovering this artform through youtube, discovering your channel is like moving from Andre Rieu to the Berlin Phil.
You are very kind subplantant 🙏. Thank you so much.
Just saw your podcast... and it was 3 years ago. Crazy! Thanks for the info and reworking my brain cells. Now it's time to give it a try. Just amazing analytical reasoning...👍
Thank you so much Dennis 🙏 I appreciate your comments.
Youre on another level with the pours , most of the ones i saw had pretty basic colors , but yours are more different shades and that creates very beautiful pours =O you have inspired me , thank you !
Thank you, your common sense approach is refreshing and am looking forward to trying your suggestions.
I appreciate it Bonnie 🙏 many thanks.
Loved the bloopers, but more importantly my mind is reeling with all of your spectacular information. I will need to watch this a few more times to soak it all in. Thank you for the immense amount of work you have put into finding what makes cells most successful, and for the sheer amount of time not only working through formulas, etc., but also the amount of time put into making this excellent video. So glad this popped up on my feed today. I will definitely watch to see what else I might learn.
So very kind of you Mary Ellen 🙏 many thanks
By the way your paintings are so exquisite and gorgeous..
Very kind of you 🙏
Oh my goodness!!! Loved every bit of your “teachable lecture.” The entirety was extremely helpful and thought provoking I personally appreciated every formula and the breakdown and reasoning.
And the very end with the bloopers added an absolute smile / laughter
And a fresh breath of humanity and possibilities please keep adding the bloopers a definite mood lifter which we all need. Thank you!
Kimberly
Thank you so much for your very kind post Kimberly 🙏 you made my day! I’m so happy that you enjoyed the bloopers because that’s a closer representation of the real me. I know that the rest of the video has to be serious and unfortunately I’m so nervous that it comes across as a bit stiff. The bloopers added a good counterbalance…they will certainly be a fixture in any future videos 🤪
Would love to see more videos of you making some paintings. Please please please post more on TH-cam 🙏
So nice of you Paula 🙏 thank you so much. I have always intended to make another one but unfortunately sometimes life gets in the way. Too many tragic events in my life have occurred since the last video to allow me the right frame of mind to do justice to another one at this time. Perhaps sometime soon.
I am sorry to hear that and wish you healing and prayers coming your way. Please know that your videos are touching many lives!
You are so very kind Paula 🙏 many thanks.
Thank you so much for this. You and LeftBrainedArtist are the only guys that can explain this stuff so that it makes sense to me. You're so right, there's too many people out there making it sound like chemical reactions, whether they know it or not. Thanks again.
I appreciate that Deuce 🙏 many thanks
Amazing. The painting as you talked-- turned out fantastic!!
Very kind of you Julie 🙏 many thanks
So glad your video popped up in my TH-cam feed tonight !! everything you said makes absolute perfect sense !! I have been doing fluid art for a few years now & in the very beginning fell into the driving myself crazy searching for the perfect "cell creator", luckily I grew tired of it & actually started to prefer most of my work to NOT have any cells & that's when I discovered that it was ME all along !! I started noticing that certain paints gave me different results, metallics especially & In the beginning I was also wrapped up in trying to measure out every single product I was using the same way & that's really when everything else started falling into place, as I got tired of always trying to get perfect measurements I gave up on measuring anything & realized that the different body/types & brands of paints all needed something different than another, so I really just got the hang of everything by accident but was very relieved to let go of all the info I had crammed into my head from all the different artists I had been watching & I started getting the results I had been wanting all along. The the big Shelee Bloom hit the Art world & TH-cam was flooded with the "Bloom Technique" & everyone going crazy & then getting angry after PAYING to take the Shelee Bloom class & not being told that the main "magical ingredient" was the Aussie Floetrol & was next to impossible to get in the US, then all the HUNDREDS of experiments & suggestions came flooding out. While I did love the look of the Technique I really just didn't want to get back on the crazy train of spending $100's trying to keep up with all the new ideas & solutions coming out every single day, so I just stuck with my own little ideas & played around a bit & came very close to getting the same results (only less dramatic) by just using products that I already had. Had I seen this AMAZING video back then, it definitely would have been a great game changer !! I am excited to give your Liquitex/Floetrol formula a try. I never really wanted to do just "Blooms" & always thought it would be so much more exciting to be able to get the same results on larger canvases & now you have opened up that world for me !! As I mentioned, I have learned things on my own by mistake about mixing, density, pigments & such but never knew the how's & why's of everything so I thank you VERY VERY much for all your time & effort put into being able to create such an informative & amazing video that has & will continue to help sooooo many newer as well as established Artists understand more of the Science behind the Art !! I can only imagine the HUNDREDS & HUNDREDS of Artists/beginners who could have saved themselves Hundreds of dollars wasted on taking the "Bloom Class" & being told they were in No Way permitted to speak of or tell Anyone about the "magical" ingredients they learned of in the class only to find out after that the "magical" ingredients weren't even available to them & then had to spend even more money trying to figure out suitable alternatives. To me, you are a Hero in the Art world !!! Thanks again !! 😊😊😊
Wow…such a wonderful post JRO 🙏 thank you so much. Your journey will be an inspiration for the newer artist….Well done👍
@@chasefluidart4341 I only paint as a hobby & usually just give my work to family & friends & do a few things for my own home decor & the occasional commission when requested, I never had any interest in creating videos or having a TH-cam channel. I took about a year off & am just getting back into creating, I've developed a huge interest in doing some abstract work using brushes & wedges & seeing how that goes, & now, after seeing your video I absolutely HAVE to play with your "recipes" !! You have really inspired me to look at my own ideas & creative thoughts differently & I think that is definitely going to make a huge difference in how my artwork turns out !! I can't wait to share this video with some fellow artists that have become friends since I started my journey, I know they will be just as excited. !! 😊😊
again you floor me 🙏 I see myself in your words! I love the fact that you don’t see money as your motivator and that your true joy with paint is creating what pleases your soul. My guess is that you are a very happy person and a true artist🙏
@@chasefluidart4341 Merci pour votre passion d'être au-delà de l'avoir
That was fabulous to watch and learn from...I'm pretty new on the acrylic pour method but I am also soooo glad to hear from you about not using sillicone to create cells. I also feel that it is total madness....the artist is and should be in control of their creation and not rely on some chemical reaction. I am still getting my head around the formulas you use to mix the paint and the pouring mediums and different pigments consistencies in the acrylics....sooooo much to learn in regards to the acrylic pour method...and keeping it organic so to speak. Thank you so much again🌷🌷
You made my day Attas 🙏 thank you so much.
@@chasefluidart4341🙏... by the way I forgot to say....your fluid art creations are truly stunning! I am learning a lot from you🌷🌷
Very kind of you 🙏 many thanks.
I really appreciate your logical and scientific approach! I feel like I learn things so much better when presented with such a thorough explanation. Thanks so much!
That’s very kind of you Love and Purpose 🙏 thank you so much.
Steve ! You are awesome! Thank you so much for the words of wisdom! 😊 I have been busting my butt trying to figure out all these techniques for the past 1 1/2 years. I am truly flabbergasted that some art snobs think there is nothing to it. Yeah right. Anyway, I absolutely love this art and continue to learn because of people like you! God bless, wish I had found you sooner. Honestly, your video makes more sense once we have exhausted so many options.
Your art is so beautiful and amazing!
So nice of you Kim 🙏 many thanks.
This video makes the scientist in me sooo happy!!! I love fluid art because it's the perfect marrying of science and art. It's incredibly technical and about as scientific as art can get, but it's also incredibly expressive, and so beautiful and full of emotion, overflowing with details! Thank you for putting names to the physics I knew was there and explaining what my science mind was trying to pick apart. I cannot wait to try some mediums of my own and see what I can achieve with my new knowledge! THANK YOU SO MUCH for sharing!
Nothing could make me happier than to read your comments Aries 🙏 thank you so much
Thank you! I’ve watched so many videos where the artist will say things like “wish me luck” or”Let’s hope this works “! Thanks for explaining how it works!!! Great video!
I appreciate it Janice 🙏 so kind of you.
@@chasefluidart4341 Are you not online anymore?
Thank You - having a better understanding of the ingredients makes this art more attainable 💕
I’m really really new to this and I thank you for explaining the physics behind this . I had a friend who developed paint for Rolls Royce who demand high standards and the physics of paint is a high technical art . I hate silicon in paintings so I’m really happy to learn about paint densities . I use Amsterdam titanium white and water to create cells ( or enable the physics to do so ) . Thank you so much , from the UK where I can’t work out exactly what Floetrol is , American or Australian.
I really appreciate your kind and on point comments KayElleKay 🙏 thank you so much. Flotrol is just a paint conditioner and a good way to thin the mix.
I just came across this video👍👍👍 my dad was a chemical engineer so to hear you explain this, is like my dad, as if he was there with you. Thank you 😎❣️
....💟 Love this!!!
most incredibly detailed and well done art videos ever
Extremely kind of you Hobby 🙏 many, many thanks.
Has been decades of studies and painting on my own, got to say you are very impressive!
You are too kind Gary 🙏 thank you so much…I appreciate it.
@@chasefluidart4341 SUR welcome, just I don't get hear someone tell it like it is. The best to you Sir
@@garyfassauer3698 …many thanks.
I’m a 45yr artistic finisher of furniture and cabinetry. Time to hang it up cause I’m old and physically unable to do such a hard demanding line of artistic finishing. Especially doing reface and refinishing cabinetry.
That said I’ve been motivated to produce canvas paintings that I can envelope my type of work into.
I’ve applied several types of acrylics to various wood and sought out colors thin yet dense enough to have the wood grains come through yet have the detail showing contrast to the amounts of thinly applied techniques.
You have motivated me to know how to break down and apply acrylics to not only grain showing with activation of cells and distinct color variations. My success has shown through in doing mountain landscapes, colorful pheasants, and psychedelic renditions that mimic your lovely cell work on canvas.
Silicone and solvent based lacquers and varnishes are wonderful together as they separate and show off as your work does so beautifully. Thank you for your detailed explanations and professional videos. You’re withdrawing the subscription and I will dive into your work. 👍🏻
You’re worth the subscription and I will dive into your videos
Thank you so much David 🙏 I appreciate your kind words and happy for your success 👍
Your work is beautiful. I think it's your sense of color that catches my eye. The knowledge that you offered here is by far the best explanation of the processes involved in this style of painting. I am for ever grateful that I found you on You tube and have subbed so that I can come back to really dig in to this new fountain of knowledge!! Thanks so much for taking the time to share your experiences and your humor!
You are so very kind Morningdewgarden 🙏 thank you so much.
@@chasefluidart4341 Take care and never stop creating!
@@morningdewgarden7432 🙏 a lovely sentiment…many thanks
Lots to think about! I love the critical thinking demonstrated. This is what it means to take your art to the next level!! Thank you.
So nice of you Teresa & Ronni Brown 🙏 thank you so much.
Thank you SO much for this video! I, along with many others, went straight down the rabbit hole chasing those elusive cells. I wish I would have had seen your video before watching all the others. I started off simply with floetrol and water, and got some really cool pieces at first, then went totally sideways with all the other nonsense. I’m back to my simple starting point, but thrilled to try some of your techniques. Please keep making videos! I love your practical approach, and LOVED your bloopers! Your paintings are pretty awesome as well! Thanks again 😉
So nice of you to share your comments Shannon 🙏 thank you so much. I like the word simple I believe it pays big dividends 👍
I knew the rabbit hole wasn't really doing what was said, but I couldn't find ingredient lists. I am highly allergic to latex, even the fake kind. Walmart house paint could send me to the hospital. I have a BS in biology with a chemistry minor. Physics appealed to me as well as psychology. And math. And poetry. And teaching. I love to learn. I'm loving this!
Love you’re comments Karen 🙏 thank you so much.
Fantastic and thorough explanation I cannot thank you enough for explaining the “cell “ composition is the paint being used. Thank you.
Very happy it helped. Thank you very much for your kind remarks 🙏
This is how I learn. I hope you'll consider doing more. You may not be a scientist, but you're undoubtedly a great teacher. 👏
What a lovely comment Valerie 🙏 thank you so much.
@@chasefluidart4341 I just ordered all the products you’ve mentioned. I have made several hundred and always wished they were a little shinier. I stack them on several bookshelves so I thought the varnish would make them stick together
Sometimes I use coconut oil when giving them out. Thank you for all the precious information. 🌈🌈
so nice of you Jean Marie 🙏 many thanks.
❤ Thank you for sharing all your ingredients, ratios, and methods so clearly! You are a true master and your results are spectacular! 🎉 To physics!🥂
That’s so kind of you to say that Kryssy 🙏 Thank you so much.
I am BEYOND happy that I found your video!! This is SO helpful!! I just tried my 1st pours a couple days ago and they turned out OK but not quite the way I wanted. This helps me so much!!!
Thank you so much Tbland72 🙏 very happy it helped. Best of luck on your new adventure 👍
Thank you for easily explaining and giving your mixtures! As a pharmacist, it never made sense when it was explained as chemical reactions. I use PVA glue and water, but look forward to your mixtures!
Many thanks Doc 🙏I appreciate your comments.
Based on this video, I had my first very successful painting with loads of cell formations using your formulas! I also tried using Colour Arte Primary Elements Art Pigments (one scoop of pigment powder to 50 g of your main mix color pouring medium) for two of the eight colors I used. It gave the painting a fantastic bit of shimmer. Thank you again! This video makes a world of difference.
It’s so very nice of you Paula 🙏 to share your comments…many thanks. YOU make the cells form…the formulas simply allow it to happen. Well done…keep up the good work 👍
Great tutorial, I am a begginer so this was very helpful. I love the outakes at the end.
Very kind of you Artlover 🙏 many thanks
Floetrol is way to expensive here in New Zealand too. I wasn't going to watch your bloopers but glad I did. To see you laugh and smile after your straight faced presentation was priceless. Thank you for sharing. You've given me a deeper understanding of paint, conditioners and the process.
So nice of you Maria 🙏 many thanks.
mitre 10 500mls $20. you can buy it in 1 litre as well
There are so many different fluid art techniques and ways to achieve cells out there but you hit the nail on the head in that the most important thing is paint densities, paint consistencies and gravity. With all of that you really need to get to know your paints, mediums and what you select for your “cell activator”, if you are using a top layer of sorts or just the density of your paints, to achieve the results you want. There are a hundred ways to go about it but having tried and true products/recipes will help minimize some steps but there will always be some trial and error as your environment will also play a role. What works for you won’t necessarily work exactly for me without a little tweaking and vice versa. Really great food for thought video Steve, thank you so much for making it! 🤗💜
Thank you so much for your comments Jody🙏. Coming from you it means a lot because I have always appreciated and admired your approach...getting down in the trenches and experimenting to see how things really work. It’s refreshing to see someone share their perspective for the pure joy of the art itself ...freely given and a big help to all.👍
Thank you!! I will try your recipe now and forget about CA!! I love your paintings!!
Thank you so much Deborah 🙏 I appreciate it.
Thank You for sharing your thoughts and knowledge about this process with us...You are 1 of only 2 artists that I regularly watch, who have actually Come out and and stated how overused the term "cell activator" is used. I have always used Floetrol and Liquitex Gloss Pouring Medium for my Pouring medium, and I have not had a problem with creating cells in my paintings except when I didn't mix my Paints correctly, and they were either to thin or to thick...And after doing some research and just simply reading a few articles, Australian Floetrol is just the same as the Floetrol that we get here except for the fact that US Floetrol is thicker then the Australian version. So, in essence,all they have done is taken US Floetrol and added more water to it and started calling it Australian Floetrol and charging 2x the price of just regular Floetrol...And all Floetrol is for really is just to aid your Paints in self leveling, and it helps to cut down on the actual amount of paint that you use in each painting. So, Thank you again for this video, and sharing with us.
I absolutely love your post Nikki 🙏 thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. As a thinner I like Australian Flotrol. It’s consistency is great and it’s chemical make up is so simple that it doesn’t interfere with the process. I believe that the Australian Flotrol is not just watered down American Flotrol. The American Flotrol just ups the ante and adds complexity to the product with additional ingredients. We both know that neither one of these products magically produce cells…they are simply thinners. Unfortunately too many people believe the hype about magic elixirs and the company in Australia took advantage of ignorance with outrageous pricing. It’s gouging …and Homie don’t play that game!
Glad to hear the scientific reasoning of why paints and water can make the cells physically change! Fantastic. I’ll be giving these principles a try!
I appreciate that JHord 🙏 thank you so much
I’m a beginner at this fluid art journey, but I see things just the opposite. I never was led to believe that cells were formed by a chemical action. I always heard from the various artists that it was a balance of the right densities and thicknesses of the layers. I heard much more about the chemical composition of the various paints and thinners from you than I ever heard anywhere else. That being said, your work is beautiful (apparently you know what you’re doing) and I’ll look for more of your videos. Thank you
I really appreciate your comments Nanci 🙏 thank you so much.
Yes Finally an explanation by an intelligent person willing share how to make this art more affordable and what is going on with this paint pouring. Thank you for making this video
You are very kind Darlene 🙏 many thanks.
Whelp! You got me! I've been at "beginners level" FAR too long and I hit a slump! Now I see why. If you're able to comprehend every bit of this tutorial in a way that's applicable to fluid painting, then you're ready to get outta the crafts section and move on to serious, sellable artwork! Thanks SO much for this & for putting it in writing & list format for shopping. That was super generous of you and I'm truly sorry that, in the end, it broke your brain. 🤯 Sending love & hope for your speedy cerebral recovery.😁🤣
Oh I love your comments Mamacado 🙏 thank you so much…just to be clear..my brain has been broken for a very long time …the video just added to it 🤪 I see little hope for recovery.
@@chasefluidart4341 I'm Yvette in NC and I, too, am brain-broke! Oddly this reminds me of David Bowie's song, "Five Years." I've found his dystopian prediction in the lyrics very befitting of the state of things, especially when the whole sky fell at once a few yrs back. He sings about "the warehouse being full from cramming so much in there." 😳 But, the way see it, I'ma go down learnin'. Why not. It's certainly NOT on trend. The bandwagon has plenty of vacant seats. So Please... JOIN ME! 🤣🤣🤣
Thanks for that laugh! I needed it. 😁
Thank you Yvette 🙏 glad to know a fellow traveler so close to home…SC.
@@chasefluidart4341 I KNEW that was a SC accent! TOTALLY different from NC! I have it too. Born & raised in Lake View on a tobacco farm w/grandparents, surrounded by family. 1 hour from the redneck riviera! 🤣 HA! (Even closer to S.O.B. What, NO Sombrero emoji. Yeah I know..😒lol) My dad's dad was Sen Jack Lindsay, (D) Bennettsville. I KNOW you knew him in SOME capacity. I'm a FMC alum. (Before it was a "U" 🤣) Without looking I'm guessing Spartanburg/Greenville with a nagging hint of maybe Cola. (NO ONE gets this cryptic thread but us. 😂)
You are a hoot 😆 and please call me Steve. Yes I remember well Jack Lindsay. Columbia native…Irmo now.
I finally took the time to watch your video, because I'm impatient, but after watching your video, I realized being impatient does not work well in this art! What a volume of education and knowledge you shared in this video, and after slowing down and taking your advice, I finally did a pour that produced cells! Thank you for sharing your knowledge! Thank you!!!!!
You are very kind to post this Cheree 🙏 thank you so much.
Finally was able to fully view the entire video for the first time. Have taken notes, tar gel arrives tomorrow, and yes, paint density/gravity ALWAYS made the most sense to me. Loved the bloopers! Lots of giggles. You did a great job on this, and all your effort is so appreciated! And, finally, I, too, live in Irmo. Should I get hung up on this, I might PM you on your Facebook fluid art page, and I hope that’s ok with you. Best wishes to you, sir, and happy painting!
Again you are very kind Paula 🙏 and I will be very happy to help in any way needed. PM through Messenger or the art page is fine👍
What a great video. I, like I am sure others, have become so frustrated and overwhelmed with all the formulas out there. Thank you so much for doing the hard work of experimenting. Everything you said made sense to me.
I really appreciate that Linda 🙏 thank you for your post.
Fantastic! In university chemistry, I learned five important items to identify a chemical reaction: 1) an evolution of gas 2) the formation of a precipitate 3) a change in color 4) a change in temperature 5) a change in state.
I love this art form, but when TH-camrs doing acrylic pours call it a chemical reaction I kind of cringe.
I love your post Blue Sky 🙏 thank you so much. You nailed it👍
I am so excited to try this formula. Over the years the number of products I am using is through the roof!
1st formula
10 parts liquitex
4 parts floetrol mix
7 parts paint
Floetrol mix is (.5 floetrol to .8 water)
2nd formula
4 parts Golden clear tar gel
10 parts Floetrol mix
Than
8 parts of this floetrol thinner
3 part paint
Thank you so much Erica 🙏 the goal is for the Top Layer mix to sink through the other layers…these certainly work for me!
Steve, just finished your “what is the ultimate cell activator?” The details are amazing, you had convinced me you are a retired teacher. I logged your recipes & comments in my Paint notepad. Loved the bloopers too‼️💜 Thanks for putting this out there kind Sir‼️💕💜🎨🎨
I really appreciate your very kind comments Rhonda 🙏 thank you so much...makes my day!
Thank you for explaining that I've been struggling trying to figure out what makes each layer give off cells
I appreciate it Charla 🙏
Thank you! When I first started I was always getting cells, then when I actually tried to get cells (after watching a ton of videos) I couldn't! Now I know why, makes complete sense to me now. Your paintings are amazing & I hope you keep making videos. (Plus I found you're bloopers hilarious!)
So kind of you Kimberly 🙏 I really appreciate your comments.
This makes so much sense to me (and I’ve not even poured my first paints yet! I have been an artist for decades, so I understand the physical feel of the paints and mediums), I just hate the idea of wasting paint… which brings me to my question : I know that tar gel and string gel have a similar consistency and viscosity, and I’m in possession of the latter, not the former. Do you think it’s a safe bet? I have all other ingredients you’ve mentioned, in addition to liquitex gloss medium, flow-aid, GAC 500, and, and polycrylic, wood conditioner, and a few others…. Any feedback would be amazing. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HARD WORK ON THIS. You’re a rock star! 🥰🤗
You are extremely kind Maria🙏 many thanks. I tried both with similar results. I don’t remember why I went with tar gel over string gel but obviously I prefer it. Wood conditioner is a HUGE NO.
Fantastic explanation into the science which I have no idea 🤷♀️ great video
Thank you so much! I’m pretty new to fluid art and, of course, spent a lot of time cruising youtube to see how things worked. I couldn’t understand how so many people kept talking about “chemical reactions” when it seemed clear based on just playing with paints and mediums that it had to be all about physics: density, viscosity, pressure, adherence, etc. You have clarified my disjointed observations and given me a much clearer “road map” to achieving different results. Great work!
I found your comments very refreshing Margaret🙏 thank you so much. You nailed it 👍 it’s not magic…it’s common sense and clearly you understand what’s really important. If I was able to reinforce your conclusions all the better…you made my day by letting me know. Many thanks
Thank you for this video. I’m glad there is someone like you with a platform to get this info out. It’s not rocket science and I feel more people will have fun with fluid art when they hear your message. Also, this type of art produces quick results, but if people would be more patient working with this style of art they would see different results.
Thank you so much DB 🙏 I appreciate it…I totally agree with your last statement 👍
Thank you for this video, i'ts explained a lot and saved me from spending even more money on 'magic' ingredients So glad I stumbled on this vid . Btw love your paintings. They are brilliant .And thanx for not mentioning me 😆
Sorry but I am going to mention you YEWGYZE 🙏 to thank you very much for your comments.
I like this guy. He cuts to the chase. I've just spent a fortune on paint, pouring medium, aussie floetrol. I've been using oils for 25 years and am now trying acrylic pouring. Had I listened to this rather those that spout aussie floetrol makes cells, which I'm yet to see.
Thank you very much Louise🙏 so nice of you to comment.
@chasefluidart4341 I am using reeves acrylics, they're Australian. It has been impossible to find someone doing acrylic pouring in NZ or Aussie that can guide for products in my neck of the woods. I wish these acrylic pouring people would explain just how difficult it actually is for a first time pourer. They make it look so simple. Like cooking all the right elements need to come together for a recipe to be 100%. Any help at all would be appreciated. I don't have anything to spin with yet so I'll have to try getting cells and lacing some other way.
I really get your no nonsense attitude. Thank you.
Thank you Louise 🙏 my best advice is to study the Reighly Taylor instability. It explains clearly how cells form. Yes two different densities of paint, layered, will form cells naturally but force will do it quickly and more abundantly. Concentrate on your use of force.
I would love to see a video of you mixing the medium, then adding the paint. Consistency. Thank you so much. Can't believe I have just found your channel.
Thank you so much Lynn 🙏 the videos are so long… I just thought it was an unnecessary addition. I don’t do anything special…it’s very straightforward. I appreciate your watching 👍
Great presentation ! Definitely time well spent
I appreciate it Robert 🙏 thank you so much.
That was the best, most detailed explanation of cell activation that I've seen. I have spent so much money on various paints, mediums, etc. only to have wasted many canvases and made so many messes. I'm just about at the point of giving up and then I see this - ok, one more thing to buy - tar gel - and I will, because I'd really love to be able to create cells with this much ease. And at this point I'm heavily invested in Amsterdam paints, Liquitex, DecoArt, Floetrol, Aus. Floetrol etc. Just to name a few...I feel like I should have probably just purchased someone else's art instead of spending all this $$$ on chasing a hobby that has been frustrating. Ok, off to order the Tar Gel now - thank you for the video and the thorough explanation. Now what do I do with all those CA's? (Minwax wood conditioner, Coconut hair product, Silicone Treadmill oil, etc.)
I got chills reading your comments Sue 🙏 thank you so much. Your situation is the driving force behind the video because I have been there too. Ingredients and consistency’s are absolutely vital but the simpler you can make the process the better. The real key is learning how to apply enough... delicate ....force to make the pigment counteract. All the best in your adventure 👍
Wow. Just discovered your channel with this video. Will use all the info for sure. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
I appreciate it Jane 🙏 thank you so much.
Steve, what an amazing teaching video! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I have in the past explained it to outsiders as a chemical reaction but I'm so grateful that you've clarified that it is consistency and force more than anything else. I see you're going to make a video regarding force...can you please include any tips to practicing my force? I would be ever so grateful as I really struggle with it. 😁
I appreciate it Margaret 🙏 thank you so much. The mindset behind these videos is that I understand that I am not a teacher. I try to convey my personal observations and then demonstrate how I go about solving the riddle….so it’s really just one man’s opinion. The next video about force will be much the same. Observing the effects of force and how I apply it to fit my physical limitations from having COPD. So it will demonstrate my use of an air compressor. Whether or not that can relate or give you tips for your own personal methods I don’t know….hopefully it will. Again many thanks for your comments 🙏
Happy to see/hear someone who’s not afraid to speak out! Because you’re so right this is physical and not chemical. THANK YOU 💐.
My question is what thinner to use, since I live in Norway. I can’t find any of the thinners I have seen in utube videos.
Would you happen to know????
(If not, don’t stress yourself ….)
Else on an island in western Norway. 😇😇😇
Thank you so much Else 🙏 I really appreciate your comments. Sorry I have no idea about products in your country.
Hello, Steve. Thanks for a great instructional video, full of useful details, insight into the beautiful gestation of an amazing work, and the bloopers. Awesome work.
One question: I have tried to find the Behr base, but the medium seems to be retired by the manufacturer. HD does not have it, and a web search shows it only in a couple of somehow obscure eBay links.
Do you know of any other reliable ways to get the medium? Have you tried any others that satisfy your need for neutrality?
I hope you overcome any problems keeping you from producing more videos. Be well, in peace :)
I really appreciate your comments Carlos 🙏 thank you so much. I was not aware that the Behr was retired…my local HD must have an abundance of it. The new line …Dynasty …they have works just fine but needs to be thinned more.👍
I work part-time at HD and can assure you the paint is still available. They have a few lines of paint with Dynasty being their new flagship. They also carry their last few iterations. The important thing you want is called 'Deep Base'. There is also a mid-tone and an ultra-white. The "deep base' has the least amount of paint pigment (there's still a tiny bit but it won't affect your other pigments) and is used to mix darker colors ( look at the front label near the top of the can it will say Deep Base). You don't want it mixed with any pigment at all. You'll be using it right out of the can. Dynasty is indeed very thick almost like Elmer's glue in thickness but please don't use Elmers in your artwork. It's glue, not a painting medium despite what some videos claim. Steve's video is spot on. Follow it to a tee and you'll create superb cell painting. I suggest learning more about paints and mediums you watch Golden and Liquite's videos on their mediums. There are quite a few that all do something different. For instance, GAC 800 by Golden helps prevent cracks in thicker paint applications and either companies iridescent will give a nice sheen. Painting is a journey with a lot of things to learn and endless possibilities. Learning the basics will help you avoid a lot of frustration and wasted paint and money. This video is a must for anyone who wants to create beautiful art.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I am getting back into this and your approach makes so much sense. I will be following you and hopefully producing some beautiful work of my own.
Very kind of you John🙏 many thanks
correct! funny how younger knows more than those with years of experiences far ahead of them. sad we do not value apprenticeship in this country anymore from elderly anymore. perfect example. great advice and info, explained perfectly. yea, always gets to me where someone makes a video thinking they are someone today invented some technique, when in fact many things been going on for almost 100 yrs. lol thank you for your time! very informative and if you find out what also works for gel in diy, hope you let us know. is something i am trying to figure out. hate depending on any company., one costly product lol yea u refuse to allow these product ceo's to gouge my pocketbook. i wont pay that for Austrian floetrol myself.
You are very kind Momma Bear 🙏 many thanks
I am so glad I ran into your video. I started out hating pour’s because of all the waist of paint. I thought it was a easy sloppy art form. But then I saw a painting in my dentist’s office and fell in love. So I sought out trying to find paint on line. As I was searching o got so confused by all the CA and flow out there. Thus thinking do I have to buy all this stuff for a beautiful painting it was in the hundreds. Thank you for saving me money.
I appreciate it Denise🙏 many thanks
I have watched hundreds of paint pouring videos and not heard anyone say that 'Floetrol' creates cells . Silicone yes , Floetrol no . Having said that, you're information is great and so is you're art !
Thank you Richie 🙏 I appreciate it.
Come on, are you kidding me!!!!?
Australian Floetrol is ALL everyone talks about when referencing cell production in pour painting! It's their so- called "secret, magic additive" & offer different alternatives if you aren't so lucky to acquire it. & yes, Of coarse silicone, but that's a completely different way to produce cells (which, in the long run, I do NOT recommend.)
It's a total pain to use. It creates deep indentions in your paintings which have to be cleaned completely of ALL silicone if you plan on using epoxy ( or any sealant, really) to seal & protect your painting. Silicone repels everything!!!
Well said Kory 👍 I absolutely agree.
I agree with the commercial use of the term cell activator. I had a rant or two about this issue 😅
I appreciate all the work and time that mustt have gone into the making and sharing of your videos.
I really appreciate that Atlas 🙏 thank you so much.
Hi there, I’m so glad you’ve brought this up, and I so agree!! I feel like so much emphasis is being placed on “naming a technique”, or naming a mix, naming, naming, naming! To name something and make people think it was some sort of invention is wrong, and really not fair to all the others people out there, who for years before them have been pouring, mixing, swiping, and using various ways and methods. I have a real problem with the naming of every aspect of this art form, and feel it must be so daunting for new pour enthusiasts. Thanks for bringing this up, glad it wasn’t just me thinking this ☺️. Way to go!
I absolutely love your comments Kimberly 🙏 thank you so much... I agree with every word👍 ...you made my day🙏
Until your video, I thought the same thing! That there was some magic activator.
I've also heard of using silicone and I didn't want to do that for a couple of reasons but the main one being I really wanted to know how to make cells without it and had some concerns over drying time and I want my work to be archival.
So thank you for clearing that up, although I had to watch your video several times.
Anyway with the help of your video I took the courage to spend the money and buy several items you suggested and I was not disappointed as these were the first poor paintings I've ever done. Thank you! By the way love your work.
That is very kind of you Laura 🙏 many thanks.
Hi Steve,
Ok, second and third time watching/listening/taking notes...
Really learning - and eye opening.
Couple of questions:
Main Mix Thinner - you using "only" Polycrylic? (and not the Thinner mixture you mentioned for the Top Layer Mix)?
So then you actually have 2 Thinners - one for the Main Mix, and another for the Top Layer Mix?
You mentioned (only briefly) about the "Base Layer/Mix" - being the same mixture/ratios as your Main Mix?
And so then depending on your Base Layer pigment/color preference - you do a 10% paint to medium ratio?
How much does the Base Layer color actually matter? (asking since I've not done anything like that yet)
Top Layer Mix - white/black - do you, or have you used other colors? Again, I'm sure it's personal preferences, and I ask because as I watched this Video - I keep wanting to know how the painting over YOUR right shoulder in this video was done? It doesn't appear to have black (or white) as the Top Layer mix (if it was even done using this method) ???
Anyhow - I've got you Subscribed - and pending Tar Gel - and some physical setup - I can't wait to start experimenting.
Thank you for your time, and any time spent on answering these questions!! :)
Hi Jeffrey ... thank you so much for watching 🙏. Yes the main mix only uses Polycrylic for a thinner. The top layer mix only uses something like the tar gel mix. The colors all have the same formula and that includes the base...color doesn’t matter for the base. I do use different colors for the top layer mix but deep colors like black seem to look better to my eye...just personal preference. The painting over my shoulder was done years ago it’s a dirty pour technique using silicon oil. Hope everything works out for you.... I’m here if you need anything👍
That was amazing. I was confused through most of it but I got it in the end!!! Yay 😃
Thank you so much 🙏 I appreciate it.