How does tempra paint compare to water color, to oil and how do these compare to acrylic?

I'd like to know which paint is usually considered best for beginners and also what is the best surface to put water color on? I am also interested in painting on wood. What is the best kind of paint to use on scrap wood? Any advice is helpful but I mostly want a comparison between a bunch of mediums. Thank you!How does tempra paint compare to water color, to oil and how do these compare to acrylic?
Water color, tempera and acrylic paints are all water-based. So brushes can be rinsed in water. There are special papers created solely for water colors which you can find at an art supply store.


Oil paints, as you might guess from their name, are oil-based, take far longer to dry than the water-based paints, are mixed with linseed oil, white spirit (turpentine is too dangerous; it can damage your liver!) or other compounds. Brushes are cleaned with white spirit.


You can paint on wood with either oils or acrylics. Paper or canvas should first be prepared with several thin layers of gesso before applying paint.


You can start with oils or acrylics. Either way you're going to be learning how to mix colors. I am working with both and I think (for now) I prefer oils. My daughter loves acrylics. Go figure!


Water colors, however, are a whole other thing!