🎨 Gouache vs Tempera — a common confusion, two different media
Gouache and tempera are often confused, mainly because both are water-based and opaque. This confusion is understandable and has historical and linguistic roots. In practice, however, they are two distinct painting media, designed for different purposes and ways of working.
🔎 A bit of historical context
The word tempera comes from the Latin temperare, meaning “to mix.” Historically, it was used broadly to describe paints mixed with a binder. For many years, gouache was also referred to internationally as tempera gouache or opaque watercolor.
Over time, terminology became more specific.
Gouache evolved and established itself as a distinct fine art medium, while tempera gradually came to describe simpler, educational or craft-oriented paints. The confusion didn’t come from misuse, but from the natural evolution of materials and language.
🖌️ What is Gouache?
Gouache is a pigment-based, water-soluble paint made with gum arabic, much like watercolor — but with greater density and opacity.
In artist-grade gouache:
- opacity comes from a high concentration of pigment
- not from chalk or fillers
- the result is a matte, clean and controlled finish
This is why gouache is widely used in illustration, urban sketching, botanical art, design and mixed media.
🎒 What is Tempera (in modern use)?
In contemporary usage, tempera usually refers to:
- educational or craft paints
- designed for easy, immediate application
- formulated with different priorities than fine art paints
It is a perfectly valid medium for its intended purpose, but it serves different creative needs than gouache.
⚖️ The difference in practice
Gouache (artist-grade):
- pure, high-quality pigments
- predictable behavior
- clean color mixing
- ideal for learning, control and artistic development
Tempera (educational / craft):
- simpler formulations
- less precision in color behavior
- designed for free, spontaneous use
🌱 Why this distinction matters
Understanding what each medium is helps artists and crafters use them more intentionally and creatively. Artist-grade materials like gouache are not “only for professionals” — they are tools that help creators at every level better understand color, layering and technique.
At Scraps n Pieces, we believe that the right materials make creativity clearer, more enjoyable and more meaningful — whether you’re an experienced artist, a beginner, or a child discovering the joy of making art.
✨ In one sentence
Gouache and tempera are not competing terms — they are different tools with different roles.
Knowing the difference helps you create with confidence.
