Purchase gesso from an art paint supplier.
Gesso is a paint-like substance created by mixing pigment, chalk, crushed calcium minerals, water and binder. Historically, this material was used as a primer for canvas and wood; gesso helped cover surface defects, add tooth for better paint adhesion and soften the natural coloring of the base. Thin gesso mixtures were also used as binders for the application of gold leaf.
Wood Crafts
A coat of gesso may be used in lieu of paint as a finish for wood and other surfaces. Acrylic gesso has an ultra white hue with a matte or semi-gloss finish. Hand-mixed or animal glue gesso often lacks this brilliance and may appear yellowish. When gessoing a project, smooth the surface with sandpaper, then brush with a dry rag to remove residue. This technique produces a weathered, translucent finish, perfect for a keepsake or jewelry box.
Oil Painting
Substitute standard oil primer for a few coats of acrylic gesso. Do not mix gesso with acrylic primers, such as rabbit skin glue or marble dust. Apply one to two coats of gesso directly to a stretched canvas. Artist's grade gesso contains less filler and more pigment, student's grade contains more filler and less pigment. Having less filler permits greater flexibility in coverage but requires greater control on the part of the artist.
Book Cover
Use gesso to apply photographs, text and tissue paper to the cover of a photo album or journal. Apply gesso to the surface and smooth clippings in place while wet. Wait for the cover to dry, then apply a second coat of gesso to seal the add-ons in place. You may paint over the surface, apply a waterproof acrylic sealer or leave as is.
Three-Dimensional Art
Mix one part gesso with one part plaster of Paris or gypsum plaster. Spread the mixture in a design on a plank of wood, canvas or plastic surface. To make a more detailed design, fill a frosting tube with the mixture and squeeze into place. Permit the gesso to set overnight. Paint over the gessoed surface to reveal the design. Consider sanding or dry brushing the piece to accentuate the texture of the design.
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