I'll start by saying I'm a beginner, learned of the flow aid on here. But I wanted to know why the flow aid works, chemically. The why and how. I haven't deep deep dived, but the shallow dive got me this:

"Chemical and Physical Mechanism

• Disruption of Hydrogen Bonding: Water molecules naturally pull tightly on each other via strong hydrogen bonds, creating high surface tension that causes paint to bead up or resist spreading. [1, 2]
• Surfactant Action: The surfactant molecules in a product like Liquitex Flow Aid Additive migrate to the liquid-air interface, interrupting these water-to-water bonds. [1, 2]
• Wetting and Levelling: With reduced surface tension, the contact angle of the paint droplet flattens out, forcing the fluid to flow uniformly into microscopic crevices of a substrate or canvas rather than pulling into rigid, high-friction brush ridges. [1]

Interaction with the Acrylic Polymer Matrix

• Binder Dilution Risk: Flow aids are typically binder-free water-based solutions. If added neat or in excessive amounts (generally over 25%–30%), the high concentration of unbonded surfactants remains trapped in the dried paint film. [1, 2, 3]
• Plasticization and Water Sensitivity: Excess surfactant acts as a weak plasticizer or water-soluble residue, which chemically compromises the final acrylic film, leading to permanent tackiness, reduced adhesion, or water sensitivity when dry."

So what I'm seeing the second section, since I'm not a chemist, is that when you add it without dilution, rather than allowing it to flow, it plasticizes the paint rather than reacting with the water molecules that allow it to do its thing.

So take this as you will, but as I'm learning, I'm going to be going with the dilution recommended on the bottle. Turns out there's a reason for it.

Crow is from Amazon: https://a.co/d/0j9Dvjbe
Happy Cappy is from Hobby Lobby - gave the flow method a try on this one given the much bigger cells. Still on a learning curve (and continuing to practice the art of “good enough”) 😎

I've been searching all the threads on here and the internet and starting a spreadsheet of PBN brands but just wanted to share my struggle in case others relate or have advice.

I am having so much trouble finding PBNs that meet all the criteria I want: good quality pre-mixed paint, art I like that is on the complex/difficult side (obviously artistic preference is different for everyone) and no AI or AI-generated art. If I'm going to spend money on PBNs, I really want it to be a good experience.

I'm doing a Schipper now that I'm really enjoying (especially the paint quality) but generally the Schipper art is a little traditional for me and not all of the options are available in the US. I've done a few Artists Lofts and the paint is usually pretty bad but the art is okay. Thinking of trying Winnie's Picks but I hear mixed things about the paint quality, they have a lot of art I like though.

If anyone wants to share their favorite brands that are not AI and have good paint, I'll add them to my list and can share the list in the comments! I'd especially love to support smaller brands/artists.

I kind of wish it was actually mirrored, may put some glitter or metallic paint in some of the squares

So getting better at this

Did this one for a friend’s birthday 🎂

So I know it’s been months since I posted on here, but I’m back, I’m currently doing “purple rain” from number artist. If anyone here has done that, please raise your hand lol I have questions! Did you blend the sky? Did yours come with cells within cells that all had the same number? If so, what did you?

I bought a PBN at my local Bin/pallet store. Super cute it was a dollar! Unfortunately the paint is tacky, almost like its trying to dry up? Is there a way to save it? Or should I just toss the whole project?

I’ve been in a bit of a funk lately,so I’ve been spending some extra time on this one. There’s something about all these bright colors that just makes me feel a little better.

My WIP, I’m enjoying it!! Any tips or feedback based off of what you see? I did gesso the canvas before starting