FolkArt Acrylic Paints

FolkArt® is a premium acrylic paint line that's become a staple in the crafting world. What sets it apart is the exceptionally rich pigmentation that gives you vibrant, true-to-bottle colors with smooth, even coverage—often in just one or two coats. The brand also offers an impressive range of specialty finishes, from metallics to color-shifting formulas, giving you endless creative possibilities.

FolkArt® is made by Plaid Enterprises, a well-respected U.S.-based craft company that's been in the business since 1976. They've built a solid reputation over nearly five decades by consistently delivering reliable, high-quality products that crafters and artists depend on for their projects.

All FolkArt® paints are proudly made right here in the USA. This ensures consistent quality control and supports American manufacturing—something many crafters appreciate when choosing their supplies.

FolkArt® is incredibly versatile and adheres beautifully to a wide range of surfaces including wood, canvas, terracotta, metal, fabric, glass, ceramic, and even some plastics. For best results, it's always a good idea to check the specific product label, as some formulas are optimized for certain surfaces. A light sanding or primer can help with tricky materials.

Absolutely! All FolkArt® acrylic paints are water-based, non-toxic, and conform to ASTM D-4236 safety standards. This makes them perfect for classroom projects, family craft nights, and any environment where safety is a priority. Just remember that "non-toxic" doesn't mean edible—keep an eye on little ones during art time!

Both are excellent Plaid products, but they serve slightly different purposes. FolkArt® is the artist-grade option with superior pigmentation, better coverage, and a wider selection of specialty finishes—ideal when quality really matters. Apple Barrel® is a fantastic, budget-friendly choice for everyday projects, kids' crafts, or when you're working through a lot of paint. Many crafters keep both on hand!

Yes! The FolkArt® Home Decor Chalk line is specifically designed for furniture and décor projects. It delivers that beautiful ultra-matte, velvety finish that's so popular in farmhouse and vintage-style makeovers. It's easy to distress, layers beautifully, and pairs perfectly with their line of waxes and finishes for a professional look.

FolkArt® has an amazing lineup of specialty paints that can take your projects to the next level. You'll find stunning Metallics, mesmerizing Color Shift paints that change hue depending on the viewing angle, sparkly Glitter formulas, fun Glow-in-the-Dark options, and bold Neon colors. These are perfect for adding that extra "wow factor" to any creation.

Yes, but you'll want to choose the right formula. Look for products labeled "Outdoor" or "Multi-Surface"—these are specifically formulated to withstand the elements including rain, sun exposure, and temperature changes. For regular FolkArt® acrylics used outdoors, applying a quality outdoor sealer will help protect your work and extend its life significantly.

It depends on the project's intended use. For decorative pieces that won't see much handling, sealing is optional but can add a nice finishing touch. However, for items that will be touched frequently, washed, or exposed to outdoor conditions, a good sealer is highly recommended. Plaid offers a range of compatible sealers—from matte to glossy finishes—that work beautifully with FolkArt® paints.

Definitely! While FolkArt® is accessible and beginner-friendly, it's absolutely used by professional artists, decorative painters, and serious hobbyists. The high-quality pigments, consistent coverage, and extensive color range make it a reliable choice for work that needs to look polished and professional. Many artists appreciate the value it offers without compromising on results.

FolkArt® is widely available both in-store and online. You can find it at major craft retailers like Michaels, JOANN, and Hobby Lobby, as well as through Amazon and other online marketplaces. For the full product range and exclusive items, you can also shop directly at plaidonline.com. Prices and selection can vary, so it's worth checking a few options.

Yes, and this is one of the best things about FolkArt® acrylics! They blend seamlessly, making custom color mixing a breeze. Whether you need a specific shade that's not in the lineup or want to create unique gradients and effects, the paints mix smoothly without getting muddy. Just remember to mix enough for your entire project—matching custom colors later can be tricky!

Plaid has been a trusted name in the crafting community since 1976—that's nearly 50 years of helping people bring their creative visions to life. Over the decades, they've grown from a small operation to one of the leading craft supply companies in North America, all while maintaining their commitment to quality and innovation.

Plaid has an impressive family of beloved craft brands. In addition to FolkArt®, they make Mod Podge® (the iconic decoupage medium), Apple Barrel® paints, Delta Ceramcoat®, Martha Stewart Crafts™, and Bucilla® Stitchery Kits. If you've done any crafting, chances are you've used something from the Plaid family!