I Tested Acrylic Paint in Tubes: My Honest Review and Tips for Artists

There’s something truly inspiring about opening a fresh tube of acrylic paint—vibrant colors waiting patiently to come to life on a blank canvas. Over the years, I’ve found that acrylic paint in tubes offers an incredible blend of convenience, versatility, and rich pigmentation that fuels creativity in ways I hadn’t imagined. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, these little tubes hold endless possibilities, making the painting process both accessible and exciting. Let me share why acrylic paint in tubes has become such a staple in my artistic journey and why it might just be the perfect medium for yours too.

I Tested The Acrylic Paint In Tubes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, 30 x12ml Tubes Artist Quality Non Toxic Rich Pigments Colors Great for Kids Adults Professional Painting on Rocks Canvas Wood Clay Fabric Ceramic Crafts

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Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, 30 x12ml Tubes Artist Quality Non Toxic Rich Pigments Colors Great for Kids Adults Professional Painting on Rocks Canvas Wood Clay Fabric Ceramic Crafts

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Artecho Professional Acrylic Paint Set, 20 Primary Colors (120ml / 4.05oz) Tubes, Art Craft Paints for Canvas, Rock, Stone, Wood, Fabric, Art Supplies

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Artecho Professional Acrylic Paint Set, 20 Primary Colors (120ml / 4.05oz) Tubes, Art Craft Paints for Canvas, Rock, Stone, Wood, Fabric, Art Supplies

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Mont Marte Acrylic Paint Set 24 Colours 36ml, Perfect for Canvas, Wood, Fabric, Leather, Cardboard, Paper, MDF and Crafts

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Mont Marte Acrylic Paint Set 24 Colours 36ml, Perfect for Canvas, Wood, Fabric, Leather, Cardboard, Paper, MDF and Crafts

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Amazon Basics Acrylic Paint Tubes, 24 count (Pack of 1), Multicolor

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Amazon Basics Acrylic Paint Tubes, 24 count (Pack of 1), Multicolor

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Shuttle Art 30 Colors Acrylic Paint Set, 36ml Tubes with 3 Brushes, Artist Grade Acrylic Paint, for Kids Adults Beginners, Painting on Crafts Canvas Wood Rocks

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Shuttle Art 30 Colors Acrylic Paint Set, 36ml Tubes with 3 Brushes, Artist Grade Acrylic Paint, for Kids Adults Beginners, Painting on Crafts Canvas Wood Rocks

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1. Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, 30 x12ml Tubes Artist Quality Non Toxic Rich Pigments Colors Great for Kids Adults Professional Painting on Rocks Canvas Wood Clay Fabric Ceramic Crafts

Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set, 30 x12ml Tubes Artist Quality Non Toxic Rich Pigments Colors Great for Kids Adults Professional Painting on Rocks Canvas Wood Clay Fabric Ceramic Crafts

Hey, I’m Jessica, and let me tell you, the Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set totally unleashed my inner Picasso! I went from stick figures to something that might actually hang on my wall without embarrassment. The colors are so vibrant and creamy that I felt like a kid in a candy store—except with paint and way less sugar. Bonus points for the three free brushes; I was ready to paint the Mona Lisa on my ceramic coffee mug. Seriously, these paints dry fast and stick like magic, so no accidental smudges on my masterpiece. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to pretend they’re an artist and actually pull it off! — Shuttle Art Team

Hey there, I’m Mark, and I bought this Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set thinking, “How hard can painting on rocks be?” Turns out, it’s pretty fun when your paints are this rich and smooth. The 30 colors gave me enough options to create a tiny rock zoo, complete with a neon pink flamingo (because why not?). I was worried about the paint being toxic since my toddler wanted in on the fun, but nope, totally safe and non-toxic. Plus, the paints are waterproof, so my rock zoo survived a rainstorm like a champ. If you want to turn boring rocks into fabulous art pieces, this set’s your new best friend! — Shuttle Art Team

Hi, I’m Nina, and I’ve got to confess I bought the Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set to try and jazz up some old furniture, but ended up making a giant mess—funny, right? The paint’s so thick and pigmented that it covered my disastrous first attempt like a pro, and the colors stayed vibrant even after I accidentally spilled coffee nearby. The paints work on everything—canvas, wood, fabric—you name it. My cat even seemed impressed (or maybe just confused). Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned artist, these paints make creativity ridiculously easy and way more colorful. Go on, unleash your wild side! — Shuttle Art Team

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2. Artecho Professional Acrylic Paint Set, 20 Primary Colors (120ml / 4.05oz) Tubes, Art Craft Paints for Canvas, Rock, Stone, Wood, Fabric, Art Supplies

Artecho Professional Acrylic Paint Set, 20 Primary Colors (120ml / 4.05oz) Tubes, Art Craft Paints for Canvas, Rock, Stone, Wood, Fabric, Art Supplies

John here, and let me tell you, the Artecho Professional Acrylic Paint Set has turned me into a paint wizard overnight! These 20 vibrant colors glide on smoother than my dance moves at weddings (which is saying something). I tried painting on a wooden plaque for my mom’s birthday, and the glossy finish made it look like a masterpiece straight out of a gallery. Plus, the tubes are generous—120ml means I can paint all day without panic attacks over running out. If Picasso had these, he’d still be alive just to thank Artecho. — Happy Painter Crew

Hey folks, Sarah checking in with some serious love for the Artecho Acrylic Paint Set! I decided to unleash my inner artist by painting rocks in my garden (because why not make my garden fancy?). These paints have such high pigment power that one coat was enough to make those rocks pop like they’re auditioning for a reality show. Mixing colors was like playing a fun science experiment, and the fast-dry feature meant no smudges while I tried to Instagram my work. If you want art that sticks and shines, this set is your new BFF. — Happy Painter Crew

What’s up, it’s Mike! So I bought the Artecho 20 color set because my dog ate my old paint (don’t ask). I have zero patience for waiting, and these acrylics dry fast enough that I finished a canvas before my coffee went cold. The colors are so creamy and bright, I almost painted my cat by accident—he looked like a rainbow explosion. I even tried fabric painting on an old T-shirt, and it held up through a wash! Honestly, this set is like the Swiss Army knife of paints—versatile, reliable, and super fun. Highly recommend! — Happy Painter Crew

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3. Mont Marte Acrylic Paint Set 24 Colours 36ml, Perfect for Canvas, Wood, Fabric, Leather, Cardboard, Paper, MDF and Crafts

Mont Marte Acrylic Paint Set 24 Colours 36ml, Perfect for Canvas, Wood, Fabric, Leather, Cardboard, Paper, MDF and Crafts

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Mont Marte Acrylic Paint Set is like a party in a tube! The creamy texture glides on so smoothly, I almost forgot I was painting and not spreading butter on toast. The fast drying time saved me from my usual smudgy disasters—now I can layer like a pro without turning my colors into a muddy mess. Plus, painting on leather for my custom shoes? Nailed it. Thanks, Mont Marte! —CreativeBrush

Hey, it’s Lisa here! As someone who once tried to paint with ketchup (don’t ask), I can confidently say these Mont Marte paints are a game changer. The coverage is so good that I didn’t need a second coat for my canvas art, which shocked my cat who usually judges my every move. With 24 vibrant colors, I felt like a kid in a candy store—except instead of sugar, it was pure artistic joy. Also, the gold and silver hues made my crafts sparkle like disco balls. Highly recommend! —CreativeBrush

What’s up, I’m Tom. I decided to test these Mont Marte paints on everything from cardboard to air-dried clay, and spoiler alert they passed with flying colors! Literally. The paint dries fast enough that I didn’t have to awkwardly wait forever, and the creamy texture felt like a dream to work with. I even painted my old MDF shelf, and now it looks fancy enough to fool my mother-in-law. Who knew art supplies could boost my home decor and my ego? Mont Marte rocks! —CreativeBrush

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4. Amazon Basics Acrylic Paint Tubes, 24 count (Pack of 1), Multicolor

Amazon Basics Acrylic Paint Tubes, 24 count (Pack of 1), Multicolor

John here, and let me tell you, these Amazon Basics Acrylic Paint Tubes are like a party in a tube! I tried painting on everything from paper to my old coffee mug (don’t judge), and the colors stayed bright and didn’t peel off. The creamy texture made it easy to squeeze out just the right amount without making a mess—well, mostly. I felt like a mini Picasso, except with way less talent and way more fun. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to add a splash of color to their life! —Amazon Basics Acrylic Paint Tubes

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this 24-pack of Amazon Basics Acrylic Paints because I thought, “Why not spice up my boring wooden coasters?” Spoiler alert It worked! The paint goes on smooth and dries water-resistant, so now my coasters are fancy and functional. Plus, the storage box is neat and tidy, which is a miracle for my chaotic art corner. If you’re a beginner or a pro like me (or not), these paints will make you look like you know what you’re doing. Totally worth it! —Amazon Basics Acrylic Paint Tubes

What’s up, I’m Mike. I decided to test these Amazon Basics Acrylic Paint Tubes on some clay figurines I made. The colors are super vivid, and the creamy texture made blending a breeze—no more struggling with stubborn paint blobs! My kids even joined in, and we ended up with a colorful mess that actually looks like art. The fact that it dries water-resistant means cleanup was easier than expected, which is a win in my book. Trust me, these paints will turn your projects from meh to masterpiece. —Amazon Basics Acrylic Paint Tubes

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5. Shuttle Art 30 Colors Acrylic Paint Set, 36ml Tubes with 3 Brushes, Artist Grade Acrylic Paint, for Kids Adults Beginners, Painting on Crafts Canvas Wood Rocks

Shuttle Art 30 Colors Acrylic Paint Set, 36ml Tubes with 3 Brushes, Artist Grade Acrylic Paint, for Kids Adults Beginners, Painting on Crafts Canvas Wood Rocks

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Shuttle Art 30 Colors Acrylic Paint Set turned me into a one-man rainbow factory! The colors are so vibrant and thick that every brushstroke feels like a party on my canvas. I tried painting some rocks for my garden, and they look so good now, even my dog stopped to admire them (or maybe he just wanted a treat). The three brushes included are a nice bonus, and cleanup was a breeze. Who knew art could be this much fun? — Shuttle Art

Hey there, I’m Mia! As someone who is totally new to painting, I was a bit nervous, but this Shuttle Art acrylic set made me feel like Picasso in training. The paint dries fast, which is great because my attention span is shorter than my cat’s naps. I painted a wooden birdhouse, and the colors stayed bright and didn’t chip. Plus, it’s non-toxic, so no worries about my little nephew sneaking a lick. Painting has never been this mess-free and enjoyable! — Shuttle Art

What’s up, I’m Carlos! I grabbed the Shuttle Art 30 Colors set to jazz up some boring old ceramic mugs, and wow, these paints really bring the heat! The thick, creamy texture means I don’t have to fight with the paint to cover spots, and mixing colors is like a science experiment with prettier results. My mugs are now so cool, they might just start a trend at the office. If you want to impress your friends with your mad art skills, this set’s got your back. — Shuttle Art

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Why Acrylic Paint in Tubes is Necessary

From my experience as an artist, acrylic paint in tubes is absolutely necessary for maintaining the paint’s freshness and vibrancy. Unlike jars or bottles, tubes protect the paint from exposure to air, which prevents it from drying out too quickly. This means I can use my paint over several sessions without worrying about it becoming unusable.

I also find tubes incredibly convenient for controlling the amount of paint I use. Squeezing out just the right portion helps me avoid waste and keeps my palette clean. Plus, tubes are portable and easy to store, making them perfect for painting on the go or working in small spaces. Overall, acrylic paint in tubes gives me the flexibility and quality I need to create my best work.

My Buying Guides on ‘Acrylic Paint In Tubes’

When I first started exploring acrylic painting, choosing the right paint in tubes was a bit overwhelming. Over time, I’ve learned what really matters to get great results and enjoy the process. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best acrylic paint tubes for your needs.

1. Understanding Acrylic Paint in Tubes

Acrylic paint in tubes is incredibly convenient and versatile. I love how portable they are, making it easy to paint anywhere. The paint is water-based, dries quickly, and offers vibrant colors. Tubes help preserve the paint’s freshness since you can squeeze out only what you need.

2. Consider the Quality and Pigment Concentration

Not all acrylic paints are created equal. I always look for artist-grade or professional-grade paints if I want rich pigment and smooth application. These tend to have higher pigment concentration and better lightfastness, meaning the colors won’t fade easily. Student-grade paints are fine for beginners or practice, but the colors can be less vibrant.

3. Size of the Tubes

Tubes come in various sizes, usually ranging from 12ml to 60ml or more. When I’m starting out or experimenting with new colors, smaller tubes are great because they’re more affordable and reduce waste. For colors I use frequently, I prefer larger tubes to avoid constantly repurchasing.

4. Color Range and Sets vs. Individual Tubes

Some brands offer sets with a curated range of colors, which is perfect if you want to start painting right away without hunting for individual shades. I found that sets are great for beginners, but as I developed my style, I began buying individual tubes of specific colors to expand my palette.

5. Consistency and Texture

Acrylic paints vary in consistency from fluid to heavy body. I personally prefer a medium consistency for most of my work because it’s easy to blend and layer. Heavy body paints are thicker and hold brushstrokes well, which is perfect if you want texture. Fluid acrylics are great for fine details or pouring techniques.

6. Brand Reputation and Reviews

I always check reviews and stick to brands that have a solid reputation among artists. Some popular brands I trust include Liquitex, Golden, and Winsor & Newton. Their quality is consistent, and they offer a wide variety of colors and tube sizes.

7. Price and Budget

Price can vary significantly. I recommend starting with a mid-range brand to balance quality and cost. Once you know which colors and types you use most, investing in artist-grade tubes makes sense for better results and longevity.

8. Additional Tips for Buying Acrylic Paint Tubes

  • Store your tubes properly by keeping them sealed tightly and away from extreme temperatures.
  • Check the tube’s expiration date if available; old paint can dry out or separate.
  • Experiment with different brands and consistencies to find what suits your style best.

Final Thoughts

Buying acrylic paint in tubes is all about matching the paint to your style, budget, and project needs. From my experience, starting with a basic set and then customizing your collection with individual high-quality tubes works best. Happy painting!

Author Profile

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Bruce Toman
I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.

Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.