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When you're standing in the paint aisle staring at rows of bright bottles, it can feel like a creative crossroads: Tempera vs acrylic paint – which one should you choose?
If you're a homeowner planning a DIY accent wall, a student tackling your first mural, or simply trying to add some vibrancy to a space, choosing the right type of paint is more than just a matter of color. It's about durability, finish, safety, cost, and how long you want the results to last.
Let’s break it all down so you don’t end up repainting your wall a month from now.
Tempera paint isn’t just for kids' art class. Historically used by the greats like Botticelli, modern tempera has evolved into a safe, water-based paint perfect for schools, craft projects, and short-term indoor use.
Made from pigment, water, and a binder like starch or cellulose, tempera is washable, non-toxic, and dries quickly to a matte finish. Sounds convenient, right? But there’s a catch: it's not built for permanence.
Use tempera paint if:
Avoid tempera paint if:
Tempera also reactivates with water, which means any moisture or humidity can compromise your finish. While that might work well for classroom activities, it's not ideal for a space like a kitchen, hallway, or bathroom that needs to endure regular wear and cleaning.
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If tempera is your charming, short-term companion, acrylic paint is the reliable partner that sticks around. Made from pigment suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion, acrylic dries quickly, is water-resistant when dry, and sticks to nearly any surface.
You’ll find acrylic paint on murals, wood panels, exterior signs, and, yes, walls. It's the go-to choice for Student Works Painting crews across Canada.
Use acrylic paint if:
Avoid acrylic paint if:
Acrylic is known for holding color well over time. It doesn’t yellow, fade, or crack when applied properly. You can even extend its workability by using retarders or blending mediums—ideal if you're doing more intricate wall designs.
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FeatureTempera PaintAcrylic PaintBaseWater-basedWater-based with acrylic polymer binderFinishMatte, chalkySemi-gloss to satinPermanenceSemi-permanent, reactivatesPermanent, water-resistant when dryDrying TimeVery fastFast, but slightly longer than temperaSurface CompatibilityBest on paper/cardboardVersatile: canvas, wall, wood, metal, etc.Best Use CaseCrafts, school projectsWall painting, murals, long-lasting decorClean-upEasy with waterEasy when wet, hard when dryCostLowModerate to high
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Here’s the key question: Which paint is better for your next wall project?
Tempera will get you quick color on a budget, but it doesn’t bond well to drywall or plaster and can easily flake, fade, or wash off. It can also crack if applied too thickly. In short, it lacks the staying power needed for functional, high-traffic spaces.
Acrylic paint, on the other hand, offers excellent coverage, adhesion, and longevity. It’s also more resistant to fading from sunlight or moisture. For rooms like bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways where moisture and cleaning are part of daily life, acrylic is the clear choice.
Even in creative home projects—like chalkboard walls, stenciled art, or bold color blocking—acrylic allows for touch-ups and layering without destroying the original surface.
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Another area where acrylic outshines tempera? Lightfastness. This refers to how well a paint resists fading when exposed to light. Tempera is not lightfast and may fade in weeks if exposed to direct sunlight.
Acrylic, by contrast, often comes with ASTM lightfastness ratings. If you're painting a room that gets lots of sun (hello, south-facing window), acrylic ensures your colors stay rich and vibrant for years.
And if you're planning on using vibrant shades or detailed designs, this becomes even more important. No one wants their crisp navy blue accent wall to turn into a washed-out denim after one summer.
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If you want:
Go with acrylic.
If you want:
Tempera could be enough – just not for your walls.
For any wall project that deserves to last, Student Works recommends acrylic paint every time. It’s what our student painters use across Canada to deliver top-tier results that stand the test of time.
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Q: Can I use tempera paint on a wall?
A: You can, but it won’t last. It may crack, peel, or wash off easily. It’s best for paper, not plaster.
Q: Is acrylic paint safe to use indoors?
A: Yes, most acrylic paints are non-toxic when dry and safe for indoor use. Just ventilate your space while painting.
Q: Which is easier to clean up?
A: Tempera is easier to clean with just water. Acrylic can be stubborn once dry.
Q: Does acrylic paint work on textured walls?
A: Yes. In fact, its adhesive properties make it ideal for uneven or textured surfaces.
Q: What if I want a temporary mural?
A: Use tempera, but keep in mind it’s not durable and may require touch-ups.
Q: Can I mix acrylic and tempera paint together?
A: Not recommended. They have different binders and will likely separate or dry inconsistently.
Q: Is there a kid-safe version of acrylic paint?
A: Yes. Many brands offer non-toxic acrylics labeled for classroom or educational use. Still, adult supervision is recommended.
Q: Can I seal tempera paint to make it last longer?
A: You can try, but sealants may reactivate the paint or cause it to smear. Acrylic is still the better choice for durabilit