If you’ve ever stood in an art store trying to decide between a $10 canvas and a $40 one and wondered why they cost so differently when they’re both “cotton,” you’re not alone. Let’s clear the air. Not all cotton canvases are created equal, and knowing the difference can save you money, stress, and a lot of paint.
Here’s what actually separates the bargain bin from the premium wall.
Whether you’re a beginner experimenting with acrylics or a pro juggling gallery work, rising art supply costs can feel like a real creative barrier. Many contemporary artists have seen and felt that pinch but with a bit of planning and creativity, you can keep painting even when the budget tightens. Here’s how.
If you’re curious about encaustic painting–that rich, luminous art form using molten beeswax and resin–you’ve probably wondered: what’s the best surface to work on? Here’s why wood panels shine in encaustic painting, and what to watch out for if you’re just starting or refining your craft.
Whether you’re just starting out or have framed a few gallery pieces, certain pitfalls keep tripping up painters again and again. Here are those common art mistakes and how fixing them can really improve your work.
If you’re exploring large-scale painting, using wood panels can be surprisingly rewarding. Unlike canvas, wood offers a smooth, rigid surface that gives you more control, stronger color, and long-term stability. Whether you’re a professor explaining materials, a hobbyist building your first big piece, or a professional artist looking to switch surfaces, here are some key things to know.
If you’ve ever shown your work and wondered, “Do I really belong here?”, you’re in good company. Most artists, from beginners to established professionals, wrestle with the fear that their work won’t be taken seriously. That fear doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you care. The real challenge is learning to create anyway.
Here’s how to build genuine confidence and move past the worry that your art isn’t “legitimate.”
When you’ve just completed a canvas painting, the frame you pick matters more than you might expect. It’s not just a finishing touch, it can really influence how your work is seen and valued. You can see framing as part of the creative process, and not just an afterthought. Here’s a guide to help you choose wisely.
When you’ve spent hours in the studio, finishing that new piece you’re proud of, the next question often becomes: How do I get people and perhaps the press to notice it? As other artists will tell you, gaining media coverage or accolades doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with strategy, consistency and smart presentation.
When you’re sitting with a fresh canvas (or panel) and an idea starting to form, one of the biggest opportunities and one of the most under-used is layering. Many beginners try to do everything in one go. But taking your time, building your piece in layers, can improve your work in ways that feel effortless once you get the hang of it.
If you’re a painter whether beginner, hobbyist, lecturer or pro, and you’ve mostly worked on canvas, considering a structured support like a wood panel for mixed media might open up fresh possibilities. Here’s a guide on combining mixed media with wood panels.