Best Painting Mediums for Custom Wood Panels
Painting on custom wood panels gives you a solid, long‑lasting surface and opens up creative possibilities. Here’s a clear, artist‑to‑artist guide on the best mediums to use and why they shine on wood.
Tagged: painting
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.
Best Packaging and Shipping Practices for Selling and Transporting Artwork
When you sell or transport artwork, especially stretched canvases, framed pieces, or mixed-media panels, proper packaging isn’t optional. It protects your work, your reputation, and your investment. Here’s a guide to packing and shipping artwork safely.
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.
1. Surface Prep: Clean & Sand
- Remove dust and debris with a soft brush or cloth.
- Lightly sand with 180–220 grit sandpaper to open pores and smooth edges.
2. Seal the Panel
- Apply a barrier coat like Golden GAC 100®, shellac, or clear acrylic medium. This blocks stains and stops paint sinking into wood.
- Let it fully dry, then lightly sand. A second coat adds extra protection.
3. Prime with Gesso
- Apply two thin coats of acrylic gesso, sanding lightly between.
- Gesso gives you a clean, stable surface that grips paint well.
4. Final Touches
- Ensure all edges and the panel’s reverse side are sealed to prevent moisture-related warping.
- After the last coat dries and is sanded smooth, your panel is ready. No need to rush into painting.
Studio-Ready Tips
- Use quality sealers. Water-based acrylics avoid yellowing and odor problems.
- Sand between layers. This helps prevent rough spots and peeling.
- Prep multiple panels at once. Gives you painting-ready supports when inspiration strikes.
Prepping your wood panel right builds a strong foundation for paint layers and protects your artwork’s future. Whether acrylics, oils, or mixed media, this method ensures clean, professional results.
Where to Buy Custom Wood Panels?
CanvasLot offers custom wood panels for artist. You can order the standard un-finished wood option or the sanded and primed with double layer of white gesso. Order online and we’ll deliver your custom wood panel right at your doorstep.
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 Choose CanvasLot’s Pre-Stretched, Primed Canvases?
If you’re an artist, you know the value of quality materials. CanvasLot’s canvases offer a professional-grade surface that saves time and enhances your work.
The Science Behind Canvas Durability
Canvas durability is crucial for artists aiming to create lasting works. Understanding the factors that affect a canvas’s longevity can help you make informed choices about materials and care.
Choosing the Right Canvas: Pros and Cons for Artists
Selecting the appropriate canvas is a decision that influences the outcome and longevity of your artwork. Understanding the characteristics of different canvas types can help artists make informed choices that align with their creative goals and practical needs.
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.
How to Build a Loyal Fanbase for Your Art in 2025
Building a loyal fanbase is about more than just showcasing your art; it’s about creating genuine connections and providing value to your audience. Here’s how to do it effectively in 2025.