Which Canvas Is Best for Your Painting?
Choosing a canvas isn’t just about grabbing the cheapest one, it’s about matching the canvas to your style, medium, and budget. Here’s a guide to help both hobbyists and pros pick wisely.
Category: Art Materials and Techniques
7 Common Mistakes When Painting on Custom Wood Panels
Painting on custom wood panels brings clarity, control, and durability, but missteps can lead to cracking, peeling, or warping. Here are the top common mistakes artists make and how to avoid them, whether you’re teaching or just starting out.
Chiaroscuro on Canvas: Techniques for Light & Shadow
Chiaroscuro, the art of light and dark, is more than just a dramatic effect. It’s a powerful way to bring realism, depth, and emotion to your canvas. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned painter, this guide breaks down the essentials of chiaroscuro in a natural, approachable way.
Custom‑Sized Canvases: When and Why You Need Them in Your Studio
Working on a painting and thinking, “I need a size that fits just right?” You’re not alone. Choosing custom‑sized canvases lets you match your vision exactly—to the space, the medium, and the feel you want. It’s about purpose, scale, and avoiding compromise.
Preparing Wood Panels for Painting: A Guide for Artists
Painting on wood panels brings smooth surfaces and stability—but only if you prep them correctly. Follow these clear, practical steps to ensure your artwork lasts.
Why Proper Prep Matters
- Protects wood from moisture and chemicals. Without sealing, oils and tannins can bleed into paint, causing discoloration over time.
- Prevents warping and cracking. Sealing and priming helps wood resist humidity shifts that cause cupping or surface cracks.
Selecting the Right Wood Type for Your Art Panel
When it comes to painting surfaces, canvas gets most of the attention, but wood panels deserve a solid place in your studio. They’re stable, versatile, and perfect for detailed work. But not all wood is created equal. The type you choose matters for your technique, your materials, and the longevity of your work.
Why Use Wood Panels in Art?
Wood panels have been a preferred painting surface for centuries, offering artists a durable and versatile alternative to canvas. From the Renaissance masters to contemporary creators, many have chosen wood for its stability and unique qualities.
Grattage: A Surrealist Painting Technique
Grattage, meaning “scraping” in French, is a painting technique where artists scrape off layers of wet paint to reveal textures and patterns beneath. This method, developed by surrealist artist Max Ernst in the 1920s, allows for spontaneous and textured effects in artwork.
Canvas for Kids: Inspiring Young Artists with Custom-sized Art Projects
Introducing children to canvas painting offers a unique opportunity to nurture their creativity and self-expression. Using custom-sized canvases can make art projects more engaging and tailored to young artists’ needs. Here are some great ideas for teachers and parents to inspire children:
Canvas Boards vs. Stretched Canvas: Choosing the Right Medium for Your Art
Selecting the appropriate canvas is crucial for artists, as it influences the creative process and the artwork’s longevity. Two popular options are canvas boards and stretched canvas, each offering distinct advantages and considerations.