Gouache Paint Explained: Your Questions Answered
At BradburyART, gouache is one of our most asked-about mediums — especially among those exploring beyond watercolour and acrylic. Whether you’re just getting started or switching from another type of paint, here’s a quick guide to the most common gouache questions, using some of our favourite products as examples.
You can also browse our full gouache selection, including paints and books to see what’s available online or in-store.
What is gouache paint?
Gouache (pronounced "gwash") is an opaque water-based paint that’s known for its strong matte finish, flat colour application, and ability to be reactivated with water. It’s similar to watercolour in that it’s water-soluble and dries quickly — but it differs in one key way: coverage.
Unlike traditional transparent watercolour, gouache is formulated with a higher pigment load and often includes chalk or white pigment to make it opaque. This allows artists to layer light over dark and achieve solid blocks of colour.
What is the difference between gouache and Designers Gouache?
"Designers Gouache" is a high-quality professional version of traditional gouache. The term was popularised by Winsor & Newton, whose Designers Gouache range has become a studio staple.
- More finely ground pigments for vibrant, smooth colour
- Consistent, velvety matte finish
- Reliable re-wettability
- Favoured by illustrators, designers, and fine artists
Example: Designers Gouache 37ml Zinc White is a classic opaque white based on zinc pigments — perfect for mixing or soft highlights.
What’s the difference between gouache and acrylic gouache?
While they look similar at a glance, acrylic gouache is not re-wettable. It behaves like gouache while wet but dries to a waterproof, matte acrylic film — more like traditional acrylic paint.
| Feature | Traditional Gouache | Acrylic Gouache |
|---|---|---|
| Water-soluble after drying | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Matte finish | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Layering light over dark | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Works on most surfaces | ✅ Paper, board | ✅ Paper, canvas, wood, etc. |
| Permanence | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Example: The Acrylic Gouache Primary Set by Liquitex offers ultra-intense colours that dry flat — no brush strokes, no need to dilute, and no cracks.
Which type is best for beginners?
If you're learning traditional techniques or coming from a watercolour background, standard gouache (like Designers Gouache) is a great starting point. You can rework areas easily and use your existing brushes and palettes.
If you already use acrylic or want your work to be permanent, acrylic gouache may be the better choice — especially for design or surface work where durability matters.
Can I mix gouache with other paints?
- Gouache and watercolour? Yes – traditional gouache mixes well with watercolour for semi-opaque effects.
- Acrylic gouache and acrylic paint? Yes – especially within the Liquitex range.
- Traditional gouache and acrylic? No – they don’t bind well together due to different chemistry.
What surfaces should I use?
- Traditional gouache: Watercolour paper, cartridge paper, illustration board, or mixed media pads.
- Acrylic gouache: Canvas, wood panels, primed surfaces, or heavy paper – similar to acrylic paint surfaces.
What brushes are best for gouache?
Soft synthetic brushes are ideal — they hold enough water without being too floppy and allow for smooth, controlled application.
Any good books to help me get started?
We recommend Botanical Painting in Gouache, which offers step-by-step guidance and detailed techniques for anyone interested in realism or nature-based subjects.
Final tip: let the paint guide you
If you’re unsure which paint suits your work, try a small selection of both. At BradburyART, we carry a range of individual tubes, starter sets, and books to help you test different options without committing to a full range.
📎 View all gouache paints and books
If you’d like us to walk you through options in-store or match your medium to the right surface or brush, just pop in — we’re always happy to help.
