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Gesso

WHAT IS GESSO?

An easy definition of gesso would be that it is simply a liquid primer. The most popular gesso primer used today is the acrylic gesso, which dries quite quickly once applied and leaves a slight texture.

IS GESSO REQUIRED?

Most of the pre-stretched canvases you find in the shops are already primed, so you can start painting straight away with acrylic paints.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF GESSO

STUDENT-GRADE PRIMER

The student-grade gesso is of lesser quality and contains more fillers and less pigment. Since less pigment is used, the gesso is also cheaper.

ARTIST-GRADE PRIMER

The artist-grade gesso is for the more professional artist that is looking to add more quality to their paintings. Since you are going for quality, the gesso will cost more.

HOW TO GESSO A CANVAS

All you need is a flat and wide brush. Place the brush in the gesso and apply it to the canvas surface. Cover the entire surface in even strokes.

DIY GESSO

CORNSTARCH & BAKING SODA

You can begin by mixing three parts of both the cornstarch and baking soda. Then add one part white glue and one part acrylic paint.

GESSO WITH TALCUM POWDER

You will need about half a cup of school glue, three cups of talcum powder, about two ounces or 59 ml of acrylic paint, and some water.