How to Waterproof Fabric With Gesso

Artists use Gesso to prepare and prime a canvas or fabric prior to painting. Gesso is a white paintlike liquid that works as a sealing and bonding agent. A canvas or fabric surface prepped with Gesso is able to prevent watercolors, as well as acrylic or oil paint, from penetrating the surface. Gesso is available in a variety of colors. Some watercolor artists blend Gesso and watercolors together for artistic effect.

Things You'll Need

• Tarp
• Paper towels
• Paint brushes
• Rollers

Instructions

1. Place a tarp under the fabric. Gesso has the potential to drip. The tarp protects the floor or table.

2. Decide how to apply the Gesso to the fabric. Gesso may be applied with a brush, a roller or an aerosol spray. This makes it possible to use the Gesso to waterproof the fabric and create an interesting design and pattern at the same time. At least two coats of Gesso should be applied to the fabric to seal and bond the material. If the Gesso is applied with a brush and roller, dilute it with water.

3. Apply the first coat of Gesso to the fabric. Clean around the edges of the fabric with a paper towel to prevent the fabric from sticking to the tarp. Gesso has a gluelike quality as dries. Allow the first coat to dry for one hour.

4. Apply a second coat of Gesso. The second coat bonds with the first coat, sealing and protecting the fabric and making it waterproof.

References

• Golden Paints: Gesso
• Aisling: Gesso - What Is It?
• One Room: The Process Of Applying Gesso To Canvas