Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set, 24 x 22ml Tubes

The Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set, 24 x 22ml Tubes is a standout choice in the acrylic paint sets category of Arts & Crafts. This set offers a reliable, budget-friendly entry point into acrylic painting, and we believe it is the best value acrylic paint set for students and hobbyists who want professional-grade results without the premium price tag.

Who it's for

This set is designed for a wide range of artists, from complete beginners to experienced painters looking for a dependable workhorse paint.

• Art students who need a versatile, affordable set for class projects and practice.
• Hobbyists exploring acrylic painting for the first time and wanting a quality starter kit.
• Painters who create mixed-media art and require paint that adheres well to canvas, paper, wood, and more.
• Budget-conscious artists who value consistency and opacity in their paint without breaking the bank.

Key features & specs

How it compares

Compared to student-grade sets from brands like Apple Barrel or Craft Smart, Liquitex BASICS offers superior pigment load, lightfastness, and blendability. While professional lines like Liquitex Heavy Body have a thicker consistency and higher pigment concentration, BASICS is thinner and better suited for layering and washes. This set holds its own against other economy acrylics while costing only slightly more, making it a smart upgrade for new painters.

What to know before buying

1. Consider your painting style: BASICS acrylics are medium-body, so they work well for both thick impasto and thin washes when mixed with water or medium.
2. Always test on a small sample of your surface, as adhesion can vary on non-porous materials.
3. Store tubes upright at room temperature to prevent separation; if separated, stir with a palette knife before use.
4. Clean brushes immediately with soap and water — acrylic dries quickly and can ruin brushes if left to set.
5. If you plan to paint on fabric or glass, you may need a special medium — BASICS is primarily for use on primed canvas and paper.
6. Seal finished artwork with a varnish to protect against dust and UV damage.

"I bought this set for my college painting class and it has been amazing. The colors are vibrant, mix well, and the consistency is perfect for learning techniques like glazing and dry brushing. Definitely recommend for any student!" — Verified buyer

Sustainability & ethics

Liquitex is a cruelty-free brand (no animal testing) and carries Leaping Bunny certification. The paints are water-based and contain no harmful solvents, making cleanup easy and non-toxic. The cardboard packaging is recyclable. While the paints are manufactured in China, Liquitex (a subsidiary of Colart) adheres to international safety and quality standards. The brand does not use animal-derived ingredients in its acrylic formulations.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Liquitex BASICS Acrylic Paint Set worth it for beginners?

Yes, this set is one of the best values for beginners because it offers high opacity and blendability at a low price point, allowing new artists to experiment without worrying about cost.

Does this set include enough paint for large canvases?

The 22ml tubes are best for small to medium projects (up to 12x16 inches). For large canvases, you may need additional tubes or larger sizes, but the set gives you a great color range to start mixing.

How does Liquitex BASICS compare to student-grade acrylics from other brands?

Liquitex BASICS has better pigment load and lightfastness than most budget student acrylics, and it mixes more smoothly, making it a top choice for learning color theory.

Is the paint toxic or safe for children?

Liquitex BASICS acrylics are non-toxic and conform to ASTM D-4236 standards, so they are safe for use by children under adult supervision. However, they are not intended for body painting.

Can I use these paints on fabric without a medium?

For best results on fabric, you should mix Liquitex BASICS with a fabric medium to ensure flexibility and washability; otherwise, the paint may crack over time.