Are Amsterdam Acrylic Paints Good? A Complete Artist's Guide

If you're diving into the world of painting—whether you're a hobbyist, a student, or a seasoned professional—you've probably come across Amsterdam Acrylic Paints. These vibrant, well-packaged paints made by Royal Talens are a staple in many art supply stores and online shops. But the big question remains: Are Amsterdam Acrylic Paints good?

This article gives you a full breakdown of Amsterdam acrylics—how they perform, who they’re best for, and how they compare to other popular brands. Whether you’re shopping in Amsterdam or just curious about Dutch-made art supplies, we’ve got you covered.

What Are Amsterdam Acrylic Paints?

Amsterdam Acrylic Paints are produced by Royal Talens, a respected Dutch company that has been crafting art materials since 1899. They offer two main lines:

• Amsterdam Standard Series – Designed for beginners and students, yet surprisingly versatile.
• Amsterdam Expert Series – Aimed at professionals who demand better pigmentation and permanence.

Both lines are water-based, quick-drying, and come in a wide variety of brilliant colors. But how do they actually perform?

Color Range and Pigmentation

Amsterdam Acrylic Paints shine when it comes to color variety. The Standard Series offers over 90 colors, while the Expert Series extends into deeper and more nuanced tones. Both lines include:

• Opaque, semi-opaque, and transparent shades
• Metallics and fluorescents
• Single-pigment and multi-pigment options

While the Standard Series isn’t as pigmented as professional brands like Golden or Liquitex Heavy Body, it performs remarkably well for its price point. The Expert Series offers significantly richer color and improved coverage, ideal for layering and mixing.

Texture and Workability

Amsterdam paints have a smooth, buttery consistency that spreads easily with a brush or palette knife. The Standard Series has a slightly thinner body, great for flat work, washes, or large murals. Meanwhile, the Expert Series is thicker and holds brush strokes beautifully—perfect for impasto techniques.

Drying time is quick, typically within 15–30 minutes depending on layer thickness. This is ideal for artists who like to work in layers without waiting too long.

Lightfastness and Durability

Lightfastness—how well a color resists fading over time—is excellent in the Amsterdam Expert line, with most colors rated as “good” to “excellent” on the ASTM scale. The Standard line also maintains decent lightfastness, especially for its price.

If you plan to display or sell your work, the Expert Series is a safer long-term choice. For casual art, sketchbook work, or practice, the Standard Series will do just fine.

Where to Buy Amsterdam Acrylic Paints (Especially in Amsterdam)

If you're visiting Amsterdam, you're in luck—these paints are widely available across the city. Here are a few trusted spots:

• Van Beek Art Supplies – Close to Museumplein, great for full sets and canvases.
• Gerstaecker Amsterdam – A large selection of Amsterdam paints and brushes.
• HEMA – For a smaller, budget-friendly selection of art tools.

Pro tip: Buying directly from a Dutch store can be cheaper than ordering abroad. Look out for travel-sized sets or bundle deals!

Amsterdam Acrylic Paints vs. Other Brands

Here's how Amsterdam paints stack up against competitors:

In short, Amsterdam Acrylics are a fantastic mid-range option—perfect for developing your craft without blowing your budget.

Local Artist Insight: Why Dutch Artists Love Them

Many Amsterdam-based artists prefer the brand not just for its quality but also for its sustainability and accessibility. The paints are:

• Produced in the Netherlands under strict quality standards
• Packaged in recyclable materials
• Available in refillable bottles (great for the environment and your wallet)

Local artists often mix Amsterdam paints with other mediums (like gels and pastes) from the same brand, keeping consistency across their work.

Conclusion: Are Amsterdam Acrylic Paints Worth It?

Yes—Amsterdam Acrylic Paints are definitely worth trying. Whether you're a beginner looking for your first quality set or an experienced artist wanting to expand your palette, there's an Amsterdam paint that fits your needs. Affordable, accessible, and backed by over a century of craftsmanship, these paints continue to earn praise from artists around the world.

FAQ: Amsterdam Acrylic Paints

• Q: Are Amsterdam Acrylics good for canvas?
  A: Yes, both the Standard and Expert Series work well on primed canvas.
• Q: Are they student or professional grade?
  A: The Standard Series is student-grade, and the Expert Series is professional-grade.
• Q: Do they mix well with other acrylic brands?
  A: Absolutely. They’re compatible with most water-based acrylics.
• Q: Can I use Amsterdam Acrylics outdoors?
  A: Yes, but seal your work with a UV-protective varnish for longevity.