If you’re a budding artist and looking for a blank art canvas, there are certain things you should know. The following is a simple guide to help you understand canvases and how you can make the most of them to improve your technique and design.
Choosing the right canvas
Before you start with your work you need to know about the different sizes and shapes of canvases. Blank art canvases are available as small canvases which are under 8 to 10 inches. If you are just using them for practice they are the right choice.
If you want to experiment with different painting styles, portraits, and landscapes, then consider investing in a medium canvas.
Once you have perfected your technique, use larger canvases to make bold statements with abstract or large-scale pieces.
Once you gain enough experience you will have to choose between a stretched canvas or a canvas panel. Stretched canvases are ideal because they’re already mounted on a wooden frame and are ready to use. These are ideal for beginners.
When you are done with your technique, consider canvas panels because they are thin and lightweight and ideal for studies or practice pieces. Canvas rolls are ideal if you stretch the canvas yourself and they are economical for larger projects.
Remember to prime your canvases.
Prime the canvas by adding an extra coat of gesso to improve the service. Acrylic primed canvases work well with acrylic and oil paints and enhance color vibrancy. Oil-primed canvases are used for oil paints and have a slick surface that allows the paint to blend and move well. You can consider adding extra gesso to seal the surface and make it less absorbent giving it a smoother finish.
Preparing a blank art canvas
You can easily prep your blank art canvases by applying gesso. Start with a layer of gesso for better quality. You have to let it dry first before adding a second coat.
Sending the dried gesso layer offers a smoother finish especially if you want detailed and intricate work. Try underpainting to add a base color to set up a tone for your artwork. It will unify the colors and enhance your final result.
When working with a blank art canvas, you have the creative freedom to design the type of artwork you want.
However, certain strategies will help you get the best result by experimenting with texture by using different techniques like layering paints, adding mediums, or using tools for texture.
Start with the background and then build up the layer. It’s an approach that will help balance color and composition.
When working on a blank party canvas avoid skipping primer. If you use an unprimed canvas without gesso, the paint will soak in and the colors will look dull.
Do not overwork the canvas by layering paint excessively because it can lead to cracking or warping over time. Canvasses are sensitive to moisture and sunlight so display and store them in a stable environment.
Explore blank art canvas options and select the best one that will bring out the best artist in you.
