How to Use Acrylic Wall Paint for a Flawless Finish: Tips and Techniques

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Paint set with paint can, two brushes and roller.

Most Indian homes stick to the comfort of safe beige or dull white, year after year. But if you're even slightly tempted to break the monotony, acrylic wall paint is where the transformation truly begins. 

 

It’s affordable, quick to apply, and leaves behind a smooth finish that feels far more luxe than it should. Whether you’re eyeing a soothing pastel for your study or a bold tone for the dining wall, using acrylic paint for walls just needs the right technique.

 

Why Choose Acrylic Wall Paint for Your Home?

 

 

 

Acrylic wall paint is water-based, but don’t let that hold you back; it packs a punch when it comes to finish and performance. Blending practicality with style, it’s become a go-to for anyone tired of flaky patches and dull results.

 

  • Holds up better over time: Unlike other options that peel or fade, acrylic wall paint forms a flexible film that resists cracks and stubborn stains.
  • Health-friendly option: With lower VOC content, it’s a smarter pick for families, especially in cities where indoor air quality is already compromised.
  • Dries before you can change your mind: The drying time for acrylic wall paint is surprisingly short, making it ideal for quick turnarounds or last-minute updates.
  • You don’t need a specific skill: It all flows smoothly. Learning how to apply acrylic paint on walls doesn’t require pro-level experience; you just need the right tools.
  • Built for Indian conditions: Monsoons or dry spells, it performs well on both interiors and exteriors without flaking or fading.

 

Preparing the Surface Before Painting

 

No matter how good your acrylic paint for walls is, if the surface underneath is uneven or damp, you’ll end up wasting both time and money. Cleaning off dust, sanding rough patches, and doing putty work helps create a base that holds paint evenly and lasts longer.

 

  • Check for moisture: Press your palm against the wall. If it feels cool or damp, wait it out or use a moisture meter. Painting over damp walls causes peeling later.
  • Ensure the wall is level: Use a long metal scale or spirit level. You can fix the bumps or dents with a putty layer and sand it smooth. For an even base, try Birla Opus One Pro Smooth Putty, ideal for levelling walls before applying any acrylic wall paint.
  • Scrape old paint: Don’t paint over flaking surfaces. Scrape them clean and smooth out the edges for a seamless coat.

 

Use Style Pro Hide Cement ST Primer by Birla Opus for stronger adhesion and a longer-lasting finish.

 

How to Apply Acrylic Paint on Walls: Step-by-Step

 

 

 

Knowing how to apply acrylic paint on walls can make the difference between a smooth, professional look and a patchy, uneven mess. Technique matters, and it starts well before the first brushstroke.

 

1. Choose your finish wisely

 

Acrylic paint comes in matte, satin, and glossy finishes. The right one depends on where you’re painting and the kind of effect you want. Here's a quick breakdown:

 

FinishBest ForLookMaintenance
MatteBedrooms, ceilingsSoft, no shineHides flaws, tough to clean
SatinLiving rooms, hallwaysSubtle sheenEasy to maintain
GlossyKitchens, bathroomsHigh shineShows flaws, easiest to clean

 

2. Mix and dilute paint as instructed

 

Don’t pour and go. Stir the paint thoroughly to remove lumps. If you're working in high heat or using a sprayer, dilute slightly with clean water as per the manufacturer’s directions. Over-thinning can weaken coverage.

 

3. Apply the first coat evenly

 

Use consistent strokes. Work in sections, keeping a wet edge to avoid marks. Don’t overload the brush or roller; aim for thin, even layers across the surface.

 

4. Allow recommended drying time

 

Check the label for drying instructions. The average drying time for acrylic wall paint ranges from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on humidity and airflow. Rushing this step ruins the finish.

 

5. Apply a second coat for a rich, uniform finish

 

Once the first coat dries completely, go in with the second. This locks in the colour, fills missed spots, and gives the surface a rich, polished appearance. Always start from the top and work down.

 

If you're trying your hand at painting for the first time, it's worth checking out this step-by-step painting guide. It covers the basics, from prepping your space to applying the final coat, so you’re not second-guessing every move once you open the paint can.

 

Brush vs Roller for Acrylic Wall Paint: Which Is Better?

 

Choosing between a brush and a roller depends on the wall, the paint job, and the finish you’re aiming for. When it comes to brush vs roller for acrylic wall paint, each has its moment; don’t force one tool to do it all. Here are the pros and cons of both:

 

ToolProsConsBest ForTool Tip
BrushGreat for precision and edges, ideal for trims and cornersSlower, can leave visible strokes if overusedSmall surfaces, detailed areasUse nylon or polyester brushes for smoother application
RollerCovers large areas quickly, gives a uniform finishCan miss corners or create splatterLarge walls, ceilings, and smooth surfacesGo for a medium-nap roller for most interior walls

 

For textured or rough walls, choose a roller with a thicker nap. For cabinets, corners, or artwork-like details, stick to a good-quality brush

 

Drying Time and Recoating Tips.

 

The drying time for acrylic wall paint isn’t just about waiting; it’s about giving each layer the right conditions to settle, bond, and cure. Skip this, and even the best paint will underperform.

 

StageTime
Touch Dry30 minutes to 1 hour
Ready for Recoat4 to 6 hours

 

Quick tips for better results:

 

  • Don’t trust just the clock: Check by touching a discreet patch; if it feels sticky, it’s not ready.
  • Watch the weather: High humidity or cold temperatures slow down the drying process. Use fans or ventilation, but avoid direct heat.
  • Keep it clean: Dust settling on wet paint creates a rough finish that sanding won’t always fix.
  • Let it cure fully: While it feels dry to touch in an hour, complete curing takes 7–10 days. Avoid scrubbing or hanging anything on the wall during that time.

 

Maintenance Tips for a Flawless Finish

 

Once your acrylic wall coating is done right, keeping it flawless doesn’t take much—just the right habits and a bit of care.

 

  • Clean with care: Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth and mild detergent. This helps remove stains without dulling the finish.
  • Skip the chemicals: Harsh cleaners or abrasive scrubs can damage the acrylic wall coating and leave permanent marks. Stick to gentle products.
  • Fix minor damage quickly: For light scratches or scuffs, lightly sand the spot, then dab on a thin layer of the same paint using a small brush.
  • Prevent daily wear: Place furniture a few inches away from the wall and use wall bumpers behind doors to avoid accidental damage.
  • Keep leftover paint sealed: Store a small jar of your original paint for easy touch-ups later—just shake well before use.

 

For a budget-friendly option, check out Style Super Bright (exterior) from Birla Opus. It offers a clean, long-lasting finish.

 

Ready to Go Acrylic?

 

Acrylic wall paint makes it easy to refresh your space without the mess or complexity. With the right preparation, tools, and timing, you can achieve a flawless finish that lasts, whether it’s a subtle matte or a bold gloss.

 

Need help choosing the right paint or product?

 

Check out PaintCraft Smart by Birla Opus—a full-service painting solution with expert guidance, real-time updates, and a crew trained to deliver precision at every step.

 

Explore our products for high-quality wall solutions, expert guides, and everything you need to paint smart, not hard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Painting your home is fun and hassle-free when planned well. For that, you must know all about various aspects of the painting process. Find answers to all your paint questions here!

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Product Warranty

Terms and Conditions for product warranty registration of Birla Opus products



  1. The Warranty shall be effective from the date of purchase of the Product as per the tax invoice (“Warranty Start Date”), provided that painting work is fully complete, and the Consumer registers the Product for warranty.

  2. The Product must be registered within 15 days from the date of purchase by calling customer care at 18001201234 or registering on www.birlaopus.com and furnishing purchase details as required during the Warranty registration.

  3. The Warranty shall be valid for parameters and period as defined in the respective product warranty document (‘Warranty Period’) from the Warranty Start Date. 

  4. Upon settlement of any claim, Warranty of replaced Product will not start afresh, and will continue for the remainder of the Warranty Period from the Warranty Start Date.

  5. If there is a break/ lag in completing the painting work, the registration of the Warranty and Warranty Start Date will be determined by the Company at its sole discretion.

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  7. For registering of Warranty, where quantity of Product purchase is equal to or more than 200 litres, please call our Helpline on 1800 120 1234 with requisite details. The registration of Warranty in such cases is subject to a satisfactory pre‐inspection at site by Company’s representative.

  8. For the warranty to be applicable:
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For more details, please refer to respective  product specific warranty document and product information sheet.

  1. Consumer may raise a claim within 30 days of discovering issue(s) noticed on the affected areas based on Warranty Parameters/ scope

  2. The Consumer is required to notify the Company of the issue(s) noticed along with the invoice details, sample pictures and basis for Warranty invocation by contacting the customer care at 1800 120 1234. The Consumer shall provide such additional details as required by the Company and/or allow the Company to visit/inspect the painting site either in portion or entirety at the Company’s discretion.  

  3. In case where the Company decides that the Warranty is applicable on the issue(s) noticed on the affected areas, the Company shall bear the Replacements Costs as detailed in respective product warranty document to repair/ repaint the affected areas.

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