🎓 SNP Wiki | How to Control Cells in Acrylic Pouring
Cells in acrylic pouring are not random magic — they are the result of density differences and surface tension reactions between materials.
If you understand what controls them, you can reproduce them consistently.
🔬 What Creates Cells?
Cells appear when:
- One color has a different density than another
- There is a variation in surface tension
- A cell additive is introduced
In simple terms, heavier or more reactive materials rise through lighter ones.
🎨 Factor 1: Paint Density
Certain pigments are naturally heavier, such as:
- Titanium White
- Metallic paints
- Many opaque colors
These tend to push through lighter paints and create stronger cell structures.
👉 For more visible cells, include at least one denser color in your mix.
💧 Factor 2: Consistency
The ideal texture should resemble:
Liquid cream
If the mixture is too thick → cells won’t open
If it’s too thin → they may stretch but lose structure
Using DecoArt Pouring Medium (DS135) helps maintain proper flow while preserving paint stability.
🧪 Factor 3: Cell Additives
For more controlled and predictable cells, you can use dedicated products such as:
- DecoArt Cell Medium
- American Crafts Color Pour Cell Magic
These are added in small amounts to selected colors and:
- Increase surface tension differences
- Encourage clearer, more defined cells
- Improve consistency in results
Usually, a few drops are enough.
🔥 Factor 4: Heat Activation
Gentle heat:
- Activates movement within layers
- Encourages cells to rise
- Expands and opens existing cells
Use lightly and from a safe distance to avoid disturbing the paint structure.
🥣 Techniques That Promote Cells
- Dirty Pour
- Flip Cup
- Swipe Technique
- Layered Puddle Pour
Each method produces a different cell pattern and distribution.
🎯 How to Control (Not Chase) Cells
✔ Use at least one denser color
✔ Add cell additive to only 1–2 colors
✔ Avoid over-mixing in the cup
✔ Work on a level surface
✔ Do not over-manipulate after cells begin to form
The more you disturb the surface, the more the structure breaks down.
🧠 Advanced Control Tips
- Less additive → smaller, tighter cells
- More additive → larger, more open cells
- Thin swipe layer → delicate lace-like effects
- Thicker paint layers → dramatic, bold openings
