If you’re new to fluid art, all the “pour” terms can sound a little… messy.
Dirty pour. Dutch pour. Bloom pour.
What’s the difference? How do you know which one to try? And which technique gives you the dreamy blends or bold cells you’re aiming for?
Here’s a breakdown of the three most popular acrylic pouring techniques and what makes each one unique.
Dirty Pour: The Original Free-Flow Classic
A dirty pour is the easiest way to get started with fluid art. It involves layering different colors into a single cup and then flipping or pouring the contents onto your surface. You tilt the canvas to move the paint from side to side, watching as it "pours" over the edges, and your fingers. As the colors interact inside the cup, you get gorgeous swirls, ribbons, and unexpected blends. It's quite messy, so the term "dirty" seems appropriate.
Why artists love it:
- Super beginner-friendly
- Organic, freeform designs
- Great for experimenting with color combos and additives (like Floetrol for cells)
Pro Tip: Use high-quality pouring mediums to help colors stay bright and avoid muddiness. Tilt slowly to spread the paint and avoid mixing it too much. And always pour over a silicone mat to make cleanup easier (the LoliVefe silicone craft mats are studio favorites).
Dutch Pour: Elegant Movement Using Air
In a Dutch pour, each color is poured individually onto a base layer of paint, and then the design is moved using air—typically a hairdryer or straw. This technique is great for creating petals, waves, and motion effects that look light and ethereal. LoliVefe squeeze bottles are popular for placing just the right amount of color on the canvas.
Why artists love it:
- Feathery edges and controlled movement
- Easier to manipulate shapes
- Great for floral or ocean-inspired pieces
Pro Tip: Use a thinner paint consistency than you would for a dirty pour, and always have a base coat under your colors so they can flow. Squeeze bottles help with placement (and make less mess). Use your hairdryer on low to move the paint outward in bursts rather than a constant stream. And watch your cord!
Bloom Pour: For Lacing Lovers and Cell Addicts
The bloom technique creates dramatic, multi-layered cells and lacing that look almost 3D. It’s more advanced and relies on a specific formula—a thicker “pillow” base, a paint recipe for the colors, and a “cell activator” to create those trademark effects.
Why artists love it:
- Stunning lacing and detailed cells
- Rich, vibrant finishes with lots of depth
- Can be done on tiles, canvases, wood rounds, and more
Pro Tip: The LoliVefe spinner is ideal for bloom pours. After layering your paints, spin gently to stretch the design and reveal more cells. Timing matters—let your paint rest for 5–10 seconds before spinning, and make sure your cell activator is the right consistency or it may sink instead of spreading.
Which Pour Should You Try First?
If you’re brand new to fluid art, start with a dirty pour. It’s the least technical and gives great results right away. Once you’re comfortable with paint consistency and layering, try a Dutch pour to get more control over your design. Bloom pours are trickier but totally worth it when you’re ready to level up.
Each pour style has its own personality and the best way to learn is to try them all. Just prep your space with a good mat, some gloves, and a sense of adventure!
Check out our recipe cards from top artists here.
Create. Get Messy. Love Life.