| Technique | Paint:Medium Ratio | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dirty Pour | 1:1 | Beginner | Cells, organic patterns |
| Flip Cup | 1:1.5 | Beginner | Dramatic reveals, cells |
| Swipe | 1:1 | Intermediate | Controlled cells, lacing |
| Dutch Pour | 1:2 | Intermediate | Flowing designs, windblown |
| Ring Pour | 1:1 | Beginner | Concentric rings, bulls-eye |
| Puddle Pour | 1:1 | Beginner | Layered effects, waves |
Inputs
Result
Total paint needed: 4.3 fl oz (1.08 fl oz per color), Pouring medium: 6.5 fl oz, Silicone: 6 drops, Total mix: 10.8 fl oz.
Inputs
Result
Total paint needed: 9.7 fl oz (1.9 fl oz per color), Pouring medium: 19.4 fl oz, Silicone: 15 drops, Total mix: 29.0 fl oz.
Inputs
Result
Total paint needed: 3.8 fl oz (0.6 fl oz per color), Pouring medium: 3.8 fl oz, Silicone: 6 drops, Total mix: 7.6 fl oz.
For standard coverage, you need approximately 0.028 fl oz of paint per square inch at 1/16" depth. A 16x20 inch canvas requires about 9-12 fl oz of total paint mixture (paint + medium) depending on the technique and desired overflow coverage.
The ideal ratio depends on your technique: Dirty Pour and Swipe use 1:1, Flip Cup uses 1:1.5, and Dutch Pour uses 1:2 (thinner consistency). Ring Pour and Puddle Pour typically use 1:1. Start with these ratios and adjust based on your paint brand and desired consistency.
Use 1-2 drops of silicone oil per fluid ounce of mixed paint. For a typical 16x20 canvas requiring 10 fl oz of paint, add 10-20 drops total. More silicone creates larger cells, less creates smaller cells. Add silicone last, just before pouring.
Your paint mixture should flow like warm honey or melted ice cream. When lifted with a stirring stick, it should drip in a smooth, continuous stream without breaking into drops. Too thick and it won't flow; too thin and colors will muddy.
Paint needs to flow over the canvas edges to achieve full coverage and eliminate bare spots. The calculator adds 20% overflow to ensure paint reaches all edges and creates the signature drips on canvas sides that characterize fluid art.
Yes, store mixed paint in airtight containers immediately after pouring. It typically lasts 1-2 weeks. Remix gently before using, and check consistency as some settling may occur. Don't add fresh silicone to old mixture; use within a week for best cell formation.
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Last Updated: Feb 13, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.