How to Prepare a Canvas for Oil Painting

Once you've decided to paint with oil you will need to properly prepare your canvas. Omit this phase of your oil painting and you may find yourself regretting it when you are finished. Properly preparing a canvas for oil painting will ensure the longevity of your painting and prevent the acids in the paints and turpentine from eating through it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Linen canvas
• Large paint brush
• Fine sand paper
• Gesso or water based acrylic primer
• Water
• Damp cloth

1. Decide what kind of texture you want your canvas to have. This decision will have to be made before you start applying the ground or protective coating to your canvas. It will determine the number of coats you apply. Two or three coats will provide a smooth finish. A single coat will give you a rough finish.

2. Unless you are proficient with making animal skin glue and have a kitchen that can handle the process I would recommend purchasing a water based acrylic primer to prep your canvas. This can be picked up at most decorating shops or art suppliers. After stirring your primer add a small amount of water to create a consistency slightly thicker than milk. Apply it quickly and evenly with a large brush in one direction.

3. After the first layer of ground has been applied to your canvas lightly sand it to give it a smooth finish. Then gently wipe it with a damp cloth to remove dust before you apply the second coat. Remember to apply your second coating in the opposite direction so that brush marks won't be visible. You may repeat this process one or two times.

4. After your canvas has thoroughly dried, use a sharp knife to carefully trim any fibers that are sticking out. This process of preparing your canvas for oil painting will greatly improve the quality of your painting. You are now ready to begin painting your masterpiece.