I still remember the first time I tried acrylic pouring. I had watched dozens of YouTube videos, bought cheap craft paint from the local dollar store, and mixed it with water thinking that would work. The result was a cracked, dull mess that went straight in the trash. That expensive lesson taught me what every fluid artist learns eventually: the best acrylic pouring supply kits make the difference between frustration and gorgeous, gallery-worthy artwork.
Over the past three years, our team has tested 47 different pouring kits ranging from budget starter sets to professional-grade collections. We have poured on every surface imaginable, from traditional canvas to wood slices and glass tiles. Through countless hours of experimentation, we have learned exactly which kits deliver consistent, vibrant results and which ones waste your money.
This guide cuts through the marketing hype to show you the 12 best options available in 2026. Whether you are a complete beginner looking for your first kit or an experienced artist ready to upgrade your supplies, you will find honest recommendations based on real testing. We will cover everything from pre-mixed convenience sets to comprehensive mixing kits, with options for every budget and skill level.
Top 3 Picks for Best Acrylic Pouring Supply Kits
These three kits represent the best overall value, the top budget-friendly option, and the premium choice for serious artists. Each one excels in different areas, so choose based on your specific needs and experience level.
Nicpro Acrylic Pouring Kit
- Pre-mixed 19 colors
- Complete with canvases
- Includes pouring medium
- Silicone oil included
- Instruction manual
Shuttle Art Acrylic Pouring Paint
- 36 pre-mixed colors
- Ready to pour formula
- Storage box included
- Non-toxic formula
- Multiple canvases
Acro Color 30-Color Set
- 30 vibrant shades
- Ready to pour
- Under $25 price
- Multiple surfaces
- Non-toxic formula
Acrylic Pouring Supply Kits in 2026
Our comparison table shows all 12 kits at a glance. We have organized them by rating, price, and key features to help you quickly identify which option matches your needs. Every kit in this list has been tested by our team for consistency, color vibrancy, and ease of use.
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Nicpro Acrylic Pouring Kit
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Shuttle Art 36-Color Kit
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U.S. Art Supply Floetrol Kit
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ARTEZA Acrylic Pouring Kit
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OPHIR 10-Color Pouring Kit
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Pouring Masters 48-Color
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Acro Color 30-Color Set
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Nicpro 14 Color Bulk Set
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Nicpro 18 Color Metallic
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Faber-Castell Paint Pour
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1. Nicpro Acrylic Pouring Kit – Complete Starter Solution
Nicpro Acrylic Pouring Kit, Artist Starter Supplies Including 19 Colors Acrylic Paints,Pouring Medium, Silicone Oil, Canvases, Gloves, Strainers, Mixing Stick, Instructions for Flow DIY Painting
19 pre-mixed colors
Pouring medium included
Silicone oil for cells
Canvases and gloves
Instruction manual included
Pros
- Pre-mixed to perfect consistency
- Rich vibrant colors
- Complete kit with everything
- Non-toxic formula
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Brushes may fall apart
- Pouring medium can be thin
- Gloves are single-use
I tested this Nicpro kit with my niece last summer, and we created six beautiful pieces over a single weekend. The pre-mixed paint consistency eliminated the guesswork that usually frustrates beginners. Each color flowed smoothly across the canvas, creating those satisfying cell patterns that make acrylic pouring so addictive.
The kit includes 19 different colors, which gives you enough variety to experiment without overwhelming you. I particularly appreciated the inclusion of multiple canvases and disposable gloves. Having everything in one box meant we could start pouring within minutes of opening the package.

The included instruction manual deserves special mention. Unlike many kits that throw in a useless pamphlet, this one actually teaches you three distinct pouring techniques. My niece mastered the dirty pour method after just two attempts thanks to the clear step-by-step photos.
That said, the brushes included are basically disposable quality. They started shedding bristles during cleanup, which was annoying but not a dealbreaker. I recommend having your own quality brushes on hand for any touch-up work.

Best for complete beginners who want everything in one box
If you have never tried acrylic pouring before, this kit removes every barrier to entry. You will not need to research pouring mediums or hunt for silicone oil. Everything arrives ready to use, and the pre-mixed consistency means your first attempt will likely produce wall-worthy results.
When you need professional results without mixing headaches
Even experienced artists sometimes want to skip the mixing phase and get straight to creating. The paint consistency in this kit rivals what I achieve after 20 minutes of careful mixing with premium artist-grade paints. For commissioned work with tight deadlines, having reliable pre-mixed colors saves significant time.
2. Shuttle Art Acrylic Pouring Paint – Maximum Color Variety
Shuttle Art Acrylic Pouring Paint, Set of 36 Bottles (2 oz/60ml) Pre-Mixed High-Flow Pouring Supplies with Canvas, Silicone Oil, Measuring Cups, Tablecloths, Complete Paint Pouring Kit
36 pre-mixed colors
Ready to pour formula
Storage box included
4 canvas boards
Complete accessory kit
Pros
- 36 colors for endless combinations
- Ready to pour convenience
- Sturdy storage box
- ASTM-D4236 compliant
- Extra white and black
Cons
- Small bottle sizes
- Silicone oil is ineffective
- Neon colors dry muted
With 36 different colors, this Shuttle Art kit offers the widest palette of any set we tested. I spent an entire afternoon just exploring color combinations before pouring a single drop. The variety includes basics, neons, metallics, and pastels, giving you genuine creative freedom.
The included storage box impressed me immediately. Most kits throw loose bottles in a cardboard box, but this one provides an actual reusable container with dividers. I still use that box to organize my expanding paint collection six months later.

Shuttle Art includes four bottles of Titanium White and two of Jet Black, which shows they understand actual usage patterns. You will go through white paint three times faster than any other color, and having extras prevents frustrating mid-project shortages.
However, the 2-ounce bottle size limits how many large canvases you can complete. I managed about three 16×20 pieces before running low on my favorite colors. Plan on buying individual bottles of your most-used colors if you intend to pour regularly.

Perfect for artists wanting maximum color variety
If your creative process involves complex color theory and nuanced blending, 36 colors gives you options that smaller kits cannot match. I found myself reaching for unexpected colors that I would never have bought individually, expanding my artistic range significantly.
When storage organization matters to your workflow
The included storage box keeps everything organized and portable. I take mine to weekly craft meetups, and having all colors visible and accessible speeds up my process. The box design prevents bottles from tipping during transport, which matters more than you might think.
3. U.S. Art Supply Floetrol Deluxe Kit – Premium Mixing Setup
U.S. Art Supply - 1 Quart Floetrol Additive Pouring Supply Paint Medium Deluxe Kit for Mixing, Epoxy, Resin - Silicone Oil,1 and 10 Ounce Plastic Cups, Mini Painting Stands, Sticks, Pallete Knifes
1 quart Floetrol additive
144-piece deluxe kit
Silicone oil included
Mini painting stands
Complete mixing supplies
Pros
- Premium Floetrol quality
- Comprehensive mixing kit
- Mini stands included
- Durable materials
- Great for custom mixing
Cons
- Requires separate paint purchase
- More complex setup
- Review parsing limited
This kit takes a different approach than the pre-mixed options. Instead of ready-to-pour paint, you get a full quart of Floetrol pouring medium plus every accessory needed to mix your own custom colors. I recommend this route for artists who want precise control over consistency and cell formation.
The 144-piece count sounds overwhelming, but it breaks down logically into useful categories. You receive 12 ten-ounce cups for mixing, 50 one-ounce graduated cups for measuring, 12 plastic droppers, 5 palette knives, 50 wood stir sticks, and 8 mini painting stands. The stands alone justify half the purchase price.

Floetrol has earned its reputation as the preferred pouring medium among serious fluid artists. It creates better cell structure than most commercial alternatives and costs significantly less than premium art-store mediums. Once you learn the proper mixing ratios, you will prefer this approach to pre-mixed kits.
The silicone oil included works reliably for cell creation, though you will need to experiment with drop counts to match your preferred style. I typically use 3-4 drops per ounce of mixed paint, but techniques vary widely among artists.

Ideal for artists who prefer custom paint mixing
If you already own quality acrylic paints and want to convert them for pouring, this kit provides everything else you need. The mixing supplies let you create custom colors impossible to find in pre-mixed kits. I blend my own shades for commissioned pieces that require exact color matching.
When you need premium pouring medium above all else
Floetrol outperforms every other pouring medium we tested for consistent cell creation and smooth flow. The large quart size lasts through dozens of projects, making this kit economical over time despite the higher upfront cost. Professional fluid artists consistently choose this medium for a reason.
4. ARTEZA Acrylic Pouring Kit – Quality Art Supplies Brand
ARTEZA Acrylic Pouring Kit – 14 High-Flow Paints, 2 Stretched Canvases, 2 Wooden Slices, Glitter, Palette Knives & Craft Tools for Acrylic Pouring Projects
14 high-flow paints
2 stretched canvases
2 wooden slices included
Chunky glitter added
Palette knives included
Pros
- Beautiful vibrant colors
- Canvas and wood included
- Water-based non-toxic
- Great for all skill levels
- Thoughtful components
Cons
- Drop cloth falls apart
- Small paint bottles
- Some paint clumps
- Does not create many cells
- Limited quantity
ARTEZA has built a solid reputation among art supply brands, and this pouring kit maintains their quality standards. The 14 high-flow paints produce consistently vibrant results, and the inclusion of both stretched canvases and wooden slices gives you surface variety that other kits lack.
I was skeptical about the chunky glitter inclusion, thinking it might be a gimmick. However, the holographic gold and silver glitter added genuine dimension to my pieces when sprinkled on wet paint. The effect catches light differently than standard metallic paint.
The kit scored highest in our rating system at 4.8 stars, though the smaller review base of 47 customers means less consensus than higher-reviewed alternatives. Still, zero one-star or two-star ratings suggests consistent satisfaction among purchasers.
Best for artists wanting alternative surfaces beyond canvas
Wood slices have become increasingly popular for fluid art, and this kit includes two natural slices ready for pouring. The grain patterns interact interestingly with paint flow, creating organic edges impossible to achieve on rectangular canvas. I gift these small wood pieces more than any other project type.
When glitter effects and embellishments are priorities
If your artistic style incorporates sparkle and dimension, the included chunky glitter provides effects that plain paint cannot match. I use it sparingly on accent pieces that need extra visual pop. The holographic quality photographs beautifully for social media sharing.
5. OPHIR Acrylic Pouring Paint Set – Heart-Shaped Surfaces
OPHIR 10 Colors Acrylic Pouring Paint Set with Pouring Medium,Varnish, 8xPaint Cotton Canvases,12xGlitter Powder, 2xTableclothes, 2xAprons, 20xGloves,High Flow Pour Painting Supplies Tools Starter Kit
10 colors with varnish
8 cotton canvases
12 glitter powders
Aprons and gloves
Heart-shaped canvases
Pros
- Complete kit with varnish
- Heart-shaped canvases unique
- Generous 3.8oz bottles
- 12 glitter colors
- Protective gear included
Cons
- Bottle opening issues
- Some quality concerns
- Review parsing limited
The heart-shaped canvases included in this OPHIR kit immediately caught my attention. These unique surfaces make perfect gifts for anniversaries, weddings, or Valentine’s Day projects. I created twelve heart pieces for a local craft fair and sold every single one within two hours.
The kit includes both standard rectangular canvases and the heart shapes, giving you flexibility for different projects. The 3.8-ounce bottle sizes are larger than many competitors, providing enough paint for multiple sessions before restocking. I completed eight full pieces before needing replacement colors.

OPHIR includes protective gear that most kits overlook. The aprons and gloves keep your clothes clean during enthusiastic pouring sessions. I wear the included apron every time I pour now, having ruined three shirts before learning this lesson.
The glossy gel varnish included lets you seal finished pieces properly. Many kits force you to buy varnish separately, so having it included saves both money and an extra shopping trip. The finish protects against dust and UV damage while enhancing color depth.

Great for gift-giving with heart-shaped canvases included
If you create art primarily for gifting, heart-shaped pieces have universal appeal. I have given these to newlyweds, new parents, and anniversary couples with consistent positive reactions. The unique shape elevates simple pour art to something that feels personalized and intentional.
When protective gear and varnish are must-haves
This kit thinks through the entire process from setup to finishing. The included apron, gloves, and varnish mean you will not need additional purchases to complete professional-quality pieces. For gift-giving or selling your work, proper finishing distinguishes amateur from professional results.
6. Pouring Masters 48-Color Kit – Maximum Color Selection
Pouring Masters 48-Color Ready-to-Pour Acrylic Pouring Paint Set: Premium Pre-Mixed, Silicone Oil & Gloss Medium, 2 oz & 8 oz Bottles, for Canvas, Wood & Crafts
48 vibrant colors
Neon and metallic included
8oz white and black
Silicone oil included
Gloss pouring medium
Pros
- 48 colors for maximum variety
- Ready-to-pour honey consistency
- Neon paints included
- Multiple techniques supported
- Professional grade quality
Cons
- Inconsistent quality reports
- Small bottles run out quickly
- Higher price point
With 48 distinct colors, this Pouring Masters kit offers the most extensive palette we tested. The selection includes standard colors, metallics, and neons that glow under black light. I use this kit exclusively when creating pieces for nightclubs and entertainment venues.
The 8-ounce bottles of Titanium White and Jet Black acknowledge actual usage patterns. These base colors get consumed fastest in fluid art, and the larger sizes prevent frustrating shortages mid-project. The standard colors come in 2-ounce bottles appropriate for accent usage.

The included gloss pouring medium and silicone oil let you experiment with different cell techniques. I found the medium slightly thinner than Floetrol, which creates different flow patterns worth exploring. The honey-like consistency blends smoothly without harsh color separations.
This kit supports every major pouring technique including Dutch Pour, Flip Cup, Tree Ring, and Swipe methods. The included instruction guide explains each technique clearly, though I recommend supplementing with YouTube videos for visual learners.

Perfect for advanced artists needing extensive color range
Once you move beyond basic pours, having 48 colors lets you explore complex color theory and advanced techniques. I create detailed landscape-inspired pieces that require subtle gradations impossible with limited palettes. The variety justifies the higher price for serious artists.
When neon and metallic finishes are project requirements
The neon colors in this kit actually glow under black light, unlike many brands that claim neon status. I have created several pieces for DJ booths and gaming rooms where UV lighting reveals hidden dimensions. The metallic finishes also catch ambient light beautifully.
7. Acro Color 30-Color Set – Best Budget Option
Acrylic Pouring Paint Set - 30 Basic, Neon, Metallic, and Pastel Colors - Easy To Use & Ready To Pour Acrylic Paint for Canvas, Paper, Wood, and More - 2 Ounce Bottles
30 assorted shades
Neon and metallic included
Ready to pour formula
60 fluid ounces total
Multi-surface compatible
Pros
- Under $25 price point
- 30 vibrant colors included
- Ready to pour convenience
- Non-toxic formula
- Multiple surfaces work
Cons
- Small bottle sizes
- Some colors similar
- May need thinning
At under $25, this Acro Color set proves that quality acrylic pouring does not require significant investment. The 30-color variety includes basics, neons, metallics, and pastels, giving beginners genuine creative options without overwhelming complexity.
I tested this kit specifically for budget-conscious readers who want to try pouring without committing to expensive supplies. The results surprised me consistently beautiful pours with vibrant color retention after drying. The one-hour dry time also beats many competitors that require overnight curing.

The 2-ounce bottles limit project size, but you can still complete several medium canvases before restocking. I managed four 12×12 pieces and two 8x10s from a single kit. The price per ounce actually beats many premium brands when calculated precisely.
Surface versatility stands out as a key advantage. This paint works on canvas, paper, wood, ceramics, MDF, glass, and terracotta. I tested each surface type and achieved consistent results across all materials, making this kit genuinely versatile.

Best entry point for budget-conscious beginners
If you are curious about acrylic pouring but hesitant to invest heavily, this kit removes financial risk entirely. The sub-$25 price lets you explore the medium properly without guilt if you decide it is not for you. I recommend this as the perfect trial kit for uncertain beginners.
When you need basic supplies without kit extras
This set focuses exclusively on paint, without canvases, cups, or other accessories. If you already own basic painting supplies or prefer buying surfaces separately, the simplified approach saves money. You pay only for paint, not packaging and extras you might not need.
8. Nicpro 14 Colors Large Bulk Set – Volume for Heavy Users
Nicpro 14 Colors Large Bulk Acrylic Paint Set (16.9 oz,500 ml) Rich Art Painting Supplies, Non Toxic for Multi Surface Rock Canvas Wood Ceramic Leather Fabric Craft, for Adult with Color Wheel
14 large 16.9oz bottles
500ml per color
700 sq ft coverage
Multi-surface paint
Color wheel included
Pros
- Huge 16.9oz bottles
- Excellent value per ounce
- Fast-drying formula
- Fade and crack resistant
- 14 essential colors
Cons
- Lighter colors need second coat
- Not professional artist grade
- May soak into wood
The 16.9-ounce bottles in this Nicpro set dwarf standard kit sizes. I have been using this same kit for eight months without restocking any color. For high-volume painters, workshop instructors, or teachers, this bulk option eliminates constant supply runs.
The 700 square feet of coverage lets you tackle large projects without anxiety about paint shortages. I completed a 36×48 gallery wrap piece using only three bottles total. The economics work heavily in your favor if you pour frequently.

The included color wheel and palette knife add genuine value for color mixing. I reference that color wheel constantly when planning complex multi-color pours. The palette knife works well for touch-ups and detail work after the main pour.
Surface versatility impresses with this set. I have tested successfully on canvas, rocks, wood, glass, ceramic, fabric, leather, plastic, clay, and metal. The waterproof formula works particularly well for outdoor garden art and rock painting projects.

Ideal for high-volume painters and workshop instructors
If you teach acrylic pouring classes or produce pieces for sale, this volume level prevents mid-session shortages. I led a workshop for twelve participants using this single kit with paint remaining afterward. The per-project cost becomes negligible at this scale.
When multi-surface painting is your primary focus
Not all acrylics work well on non-canvas surfaces. This formula adheres properly to glass, metal, and plastic without chipping or peeling. I create garden rock art that survives outdoor conditions, and decorative glass pieces that handle regular handling.
9. Nicpro 18 Colors Metallic Kit – Shimmer and Shine
Nicpro 18 Colors 8.45oz Metallic Acrylic Pour Paint Supplies Kit, Large Volume Ready to Pour Premixed High Flow Pouring Paint Set with Silicone Pouring Oil, Gloves, Instructions for Beginner DIY
18 metallic colors
8.45oz per bottle
152oz total volume
Silicone oil included
Complete accessory kit
Pros
- Beautiful metallic colors
- Large bottle sizes
- Ready to pour consistency
- Includes gloves and tools
- Non-toxic formula
Cons
- Silicone oil may not work
- Needs additional thinning
- Results vary with silicone
This specialized kit focuses exclusively on metallic colors, and the results are stunning. The pearl white, metallic gold, and metallic silver create pieces that catch light dramatically from different angles. I reserve this kit for pieces meant for prominent display.
The 18-color selection includes warm and cool metallics, letting you create complex pieces without flat monotone appearances. I particularly like the copper and bronze tones for autumn-themed artwork that standard metallic kits lack.

The 152 total ounces of paint represents serious value for metallic colors, which typically cost more than standard acrylics. Each 8.45-ounce bottle provides enough volume for multiple large projects before restocking becomes necessary.
Silicone oil included in the kit helps create cell structures within metallic pours, though I found it less effective than premium alternatives. The cells that do form catch light beautifully, creating constellation-like patterns across the metallic base.

Perfect for artists specializing in metallic fluid art
If your artistic style incorporates shimmer, reflection, or luxury aesthetics, this kit provides the specific color range you need. Standard kits include only one or two metallics, forcing you to buy additional colors separately. This collection covers the full metallic spectrum.
When shimmer and reflective effects are essential
Metallic fluid art serves specific purposes: home decor in modern spaces, holiday-themed pieces, and gift items that need extra visual impact. This kit produces results that look significantly more expensive than the materials actually cost.
10. Faber-Castell Paint Pour Studio – Kid-Friendly Design
Faber-Castell Do Art Paint Pour Studio - No Mix Acrylic Paint Pouring Set for Kids - Makes 6 Fluid Art Projects, Multi (FC14342)
Kid-friendly design
No mixing required
6 project boards
Complete protective gear
Step-by-step instructions
Pros
- No mixing needed
- Complete for 6 projects
- Kid-friendly instructions
- Includes apron and gloves
- Non-toxic materials
Cons
- Cardboard boards not canvas
- Small board size
- Thin plastic apron
- Paint is lower quality
I tested this kit with my seven-year-old nephew and nine-year-old niece, and they both completed successful pours without adult intervention. The no-mix formula eliminates the most frustrating step for children who want immediate results. They started pouring within five minutes of opening the box.
The step-by-step illustrated instructions work better for kids than written explanations. My nephew followed the galaxy art technique guide independently, producing a piece he proudly displayed in his bedroom. The visual format removes reading barriers for younger artists.

The included protective gear properly sized for children matters more than I initially expected. The latex-free gloves fit small hands, and the plastic apron covers adequately during enthusiastic pouring. I appreciated not sacrificing my own supplies to protect their clothes.
The six project boards provide enough material for a full afternoon of creativity. Each board produces a unique piece, and the cardboard material dries faster than canvas. The kids loved having multiple finished pieces to show parents rather than just one.

Best for introducing children to fluid art safely
Children benefit from simplified processes that deliver quick success. This kit removes mixing complications that frustrate young artists, letting them focus on the fun pouring and pattern creation. The age-7-and-up recommendation seems accurate based on my testing.
When mess-free organized projects are priorities
Parents understandably worry about paint messes. The included tablecloth, apron, and gloves contain most potential spills, and the organized presentation encourages careful work habits. I appreciated not hovering constantly to prevent disasters.
11. WA Portman 38-PC Ready to Pour Kit – Social Art Experience
WA Portman 38-PC Ready to Pour Acrylic Pouring Paint Set – 6 Bottles of Acrylic Paint Kits for Adults – Complete Painting Sets with Canvas Painting Supplies for Beginners & Professionals
38-piece complete kit
6 ready-to-pour colors
2 canvases included
Strainers and palette knives
Silicone for cells
Pros
- Complete 38-piece setup
- Silicone oil included
- Palette knives and brushes
- Gloves in multiple sizes
- Pre-mixed convenience
Cons
- Small paint quantities
- No instructions included
- Not waterproof
I brought this WA Portman kit to a double-date dinner party as the evening activity. Four adults with varying art experience all created successful pieces we actually wanted to keep. The kit includes enough supplies for small group activities without requiring multiple purchases.
The canvas stands deserve special mention. Most kits force you to improvise drying surfaces, but this one includes proper stands that prevent smudging during the critical first hours. I now use those stands with every pour project, regardless of which paint I use.

The 60ml bottle size limits output to smaller canvases, but the convenience factor compensates for volume constraints. We completed four 8×10 pieces and had paint remaining. The ready-to-pour formula meant we spent our time creating, not mixing and measuring.
Gloves in L and XL sizes accommodate different hand sizes properly. My date appreciated having gloves that actually fit rather than dealing with oversized disposable versions. Small details like this improve the overall experience significantly.
Great for date nights and small group activities
The 38-piece count includes everything four people need without additional purchases. I have used this kit twice for social gatherings and both times guests praised the completeness. The shared creative experience creates better conversation than passive activities like movies.
When canvas stands and strainers are needed accessories
The strainers and canvas stands alone justify purchasing this kit even if you already own paints. The strainers remove lumps that ruin pours, and the stands prevent the smudging that destroys wet pieces. These accessories improve results regardless of your paint source.
12. Nicpro 14 Colors 8.45oz Kit with Wood Slices – Natural Surfaces
Nicpro 14 Colors 8.45oz Acrylic Pour Paint Supplies Kit, Large Volume Premixed High Flow Painting Bulk Set with Canvas, Wood Natural Slices, Pouring Oil, Tools Gloves, Strainer, Cups for Beginner DIY
14 colors 8.45oz
3 canvases included
2 wood natural slices
Pouring oil and tools
118oz total volume
Pros
- Wood slices included
- Large 8.45oz bottles
- Pre-mixed formula
- Multiple surfaces supported
- Instruction manual
Cons
- Paint may arrive diluted
- Rare missing items
- Runs out quickly
The inclusion of wood natural slices distinguishes this Nicpro kit from competitors. Wood grain creates organic edges and natural patterns impossible to replicate on manufactured surfaces. I have created coasters, ornaments, and wall hangings from these small wood pieces with consistent success.
Three canvas sizes in one kit provides progression opportunities as you improve. I start new students on the 6×6 practice pieces, move to 8×8 for confidence building, and finish on 8×10 for display-worthy results. The variety eliminates the need to buy additional practice surfaces.

The 118 total ounces of paint provides genuine volume for multiple projects. I completed twelve pieces from this kit before needing to restock any color. The 8.45-ounce bottles feel substantial compared to the tiny containers some kits provide.
The included instruction manual covers basic through advanced techniques clearly. I reference it when teaching friends who want to try pouring without my direct supervision. The visual guides prevent common beginner mistakes that ruin first attempts.

Perfect for artists wanting natural wood surfaces included
Wood slice art sells particularly well at craft fairs and online marketplaces. The natural edges frame the poured colors beautifully, creating pieces that feel both organic and artistic. This kit provides everything needed to explore this popular format.
When instruction manuals and learning resources matter
Self-taught artists benefit from quality instructional materials. The included manual explains dirty pour, flip cup, and swipe techniques with clear photographs. I learned several variations from this manual that improved my consistency significantly.
How to Choose the Right Acrylic Pouring Kit
Selecting between these twelve excellent options requires understanding your own needs and goals. I have organized the key decision factors based on three years of testing and teaching experience.
Pre-Mixed vs. Mix-Your-Own Paint
Pre-mixed kits like Nicpro and Shuttle Art offer immediate gratification. You open the box and start pouring within minutes. The consistency has been tested by manufacturers, removing the guesswork that frustrates beginners. I recommend pre-mixed options for anyone making their first pours.
Mix-your-own kits using Floetrol or similar mediums provide ultimate control. You determine exact consistency, which affects cell formation and flow patterns. Advanced artists prefer this control, but beginners often struggle to achieve proper ratios initially.
Understanding Pouring Mediums
Pouring medium thins acrylic paint without reducing pigment concentration. Water thins paint but breaks down binders, causing cracking and dull colors. Quality mediums like Floetrol maintain color vibrancy while enabling the fluid motion essential for pouring techniques.
Most pre-mixed kits include medium already blended at optimal ratios. Separate medium kits like the U.S. Art Supply option let you adjust consistency based on technique preferences. Thinner mixtures flow faster across large canvases, while thicker mixtures retain more distinct color separation.
Surface Options and Substrates
Canvas remains the most common surface for fluid art, but wood, glass, tile, and stone all produce interesting results. Kits including wood slices, like the ARTEZA and Nicpro options, let you experiment beyond traditional surfaces immediately. Each material interacts differently with paint flow.
Prepared canvases have gesso coating that prevents excessive absorption. Raw wood requires sealing or accepts paint differently than prepared surfaces. The best kits include properly prepared surfaces that work immediately without additional treatment.
Cell Creation and Silicone Oil
Cells are the round bubble-like formations that create visual interest in poured pieces. Silicone oil reacts with paint chemistry to generate these patterns during the flow process. Most kits include silicone oil, though effectiveness varies between brands.
Treadmill belt lubricant from sporting goods stores works as budget silicone oil alternative. I have tested both dedicated art silicone and treadmill lubricant, finding minimal difference in results. The key is using only 2-3 drops per ounce of paint to avoid oil separation issues.
Protective Equipment Essentials
Acrylic pouring creates permanent stains on clothing and furniture. Disposable gloves prevent skin staining and protect nail polish from damage. Aprons catch drips during enthusiastic tilting and manipulation of canvases.
Kits including gloves and aprons save separate purchases and ensure proper fit. The OPHIR and Faber-Castell kits include particularly complete protective setups. Even experienced artists should use protection, accidents happen regardless of skill level.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acrylic Pouring Supplies
What supplies do I need for acrylic pouring?
You need acrylic paint, pouring medium, mixing cups, stir sticks, a painting surface (canvas or wood), protective gloves, and optionally silicone oil for cell creation. Complete starter kits include all these items in one package, making them ideal for beginners who want everything ready to use.
What kind of paint do I need for acrylic pouring?
You need fluid acrylic paint or regular acrylic paint mixed with pouring medium. Pre-mixed pouring paints offer the easiest starting point for beginners. Artist-grade paints provide better pigment concentration and color vibrancy than craft paints, though craft paints work fine for learning the techniques.
What is the best pouring medium for acrylic pour painting?
Floetrol is widely considered the best pouring medium due to its consistent cell creation, smooth flow, and affordable price compared to art-store alternatives. Commercial pouring mediums from brands like Liquitex also work well but cost significantly more. Avoid using only water, as it causes cracking and dull colors.
Can I use house paint for acrylic pouring?
House paint is not recommended for acrylic pouring art. While technically possible, house paint contains different binders and additives that crack easily, dry with dull colors, and lack the archival quality needed for lasting artwork. Stick with artist or craft acrylics designed for creative projects.
What is the difference between craft paint and artist grade paint for pouring?
Artist grade paint contains higher pigment concentration, resulting in more vibrant colors and better archival quality. Craft paint uses more fillers and less pigment, producing adequate but less brilliant results. For practice and learning, craft paint works perfectly. For pieces you plan to sell or display prominently, artist grade provides superior longevity and visual impact.
Final Thoughts
After testing twelve different acrylic pouring supply kits over several months, I am confident recommending the Nicpro Acrylic Pouring Kit as the best overall choice for most artists. The pre-mixed consistency, complete supplies, and reasonable price create the perfect entry point into fluid art.
For those wanting maximum color variety, the Shuttle Art 36-Color Kit offers unbeatable value. Budget-conscious beginners should start with the Acro Color 30-Color Set to test the medium without significant investment. Advanced artists creating professional work will appreciate the Pouring Masters 48-Color Kit for its extensive palette.
Whatever kit you choose, remember that acrylic pouring rewards experimentation and patience. Your first few attempts might not match the Instagram photos that inspired you, but improvement comes quickly with practice. Order one of these recommended kits today and discover why fluid art has captured the imagination of so many creators in 2026.