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Understanding Support-Induced Discoloration in Acrylics

tatiana
Tatiana February 21, 2024
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Support-induced discoloration, or SID, occurs over a relatively brief period as the media is drying. The discoloration can occur in any acrylic media or gel brand but is most noticeable in unpigmented gels, matte, and gloss media. It can, however, also affect specific colored paint and incredibly transparent layers of blue.

Tests of other pigmented media, such as egg tempera, on traditional gesso, did not indicate support-induced discoloration to be a problem. Because oil paint does not involve water, which transports discoloring compounds from the support, support-induced discoloration has not been observed in this medium.

To read more about SID go to Natural Pigments

What is support-induced discoloration and when does it occur?

Support-induced discoloration (SID) is a change in color that occurs over a short period as the media dries, especially noticeable in unpigmented gels, matte, and gloss media.

In which types of media is support-induced discoloration most likely to be observed?

SID is most noticeable in unpigmented gels, matte, and gloss media, although it can also affect specific colored paints and transparent layers of blue in acrylic media.

Does support-induced discoloration affect oil-based paintings or traditional egg tempera?

No, support-induced discoloration has not been observed in oil paintings or traditional egg tempera, as these mediums do not involve water that transports discoloring compounds from the support.

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Categories: Acrylic, Composite Materials, Grounds - Primers, Supports, Wood
tatiana
Tatiana

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george_pbp
George October 14, 2026
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