The use of a heat source on the surface of an acrylic pour helps break the surface tension of the top layer of paint. This allows lighter weight colors rise through the heavier colors and it helps close air pockets and bubbles that may form. Heat also allows the paint to flow more rapidly.

Lots of artists, including myself, have come to realization that using a heat source on paintings during and after a pour can create some really beautiful effects. Being a very analytical left brained person, I’ve always wanted to really understand why. So I did a little research and thought I’d share.

Why do you use a torch on acrylic pours? The use of a heat gun/heat torch/flame torch on the surface of an acrylic pour helps break the surface tension of the top layer of paint. This allows lighter weight colors rise through the heavier colors and it helps close air pockets and bubbles that may form. Heat also allows the paint to flow more rapidly.