When talking about paintings and art, many people imagine famous works painted in oil. Oil paints have been used for centuries. Learning to work with them is not the easiest task, but the uniqueness of the resulting paintings is worth it.
These paints are suitable for still life, as well as for portraits and landscapes. Everyone can learn to paint flowers in oil or depict interior details. However, there are certain rules for working with oil paints. One of which is the mandatory priming of the canvas before starting work.
Why priming the canvas for oil
Oil painting with its richness of colors and depth of expression begins with careful preparation of the canvas. Priming the canvas for oil is an essential step in the creation of a work of art, which determines its strength and durability, as well as affects the visual perception. The primer serves not only as a base for the applied colors, but also creates a protective layer that prevents oil pigments from being absorbed by the canvas. This ensures that the work is resistant to time and external influences, and gives the paintings richer and deeper shades.
How to prim the canvas
Before you get to work, it’s important to know how to primed canvas and what to use for it. There are three basic techniques for priming a canvas for oil.
Priming in thin layers:
Applying the primer in thin layers. Each layer is allowed to dry completely before the next. This reduces the risk of cracking and ensures an even texture.
Texturing with materials:
Adding texture by mixing soil with sand or other fine materials. This gives the painting added visual interest.
Working with a base color:
Decide whether you will use a pre-made ground or create your own, and decide on a base color. This can affect the overall color scheme of your future artwork.
To get the perfect surface for your oil work, it’s worth paying attention to the condition of your canvas. Fill any irregularities, trellis or primer to create a perfectly smooth surface. Apply the primer in thin layers, giving each one time to dry. This will avoid cracks and ensure durability.
It is important to not only prime the area to be painted with oil, but also to treat the edges. this will help keep the canvas from aging and sagging over time.
What to prime the canvas for oil
Artists do not have a single opinion about what is the best way to primer the canvas for oil. However, there are three main options.
Classic priming with acrylics:
One of the most common methods is to use a ready-made acrylic primer. It provides a smooth and stable surface ready for oil paints. In addition, acrylic has the property of fast drying, which allows you to start work in the shortest possible time.
Layer of imprimatur:
Some artists prefer to add a colorful layer of imprimatura to the canvas. This adds a special atmosphere to the future work and creates a unique background and texture.
Proprietary gesso mix:
Experimenters can create their own gesso by mixing acrylic paints with sand or fine particles for texturing.
Tips for Beginning Artists
Those who are just planning to start an oil painting course often resort to buying an already primed canvas. Others immediately start by taking a ready-made primer, and some of them do not know what to primer the canvas with and start experimenting.
If it is decided to priming by yourself, you should not be in a hurry. Each layer of primer should dry completely before the next stage begins.
One should not be afraid to experiment with texture. Adding sand and other small fragments can allow you to create a unique piece.
It is important to use only quality materials for priming and painting itself. it allows you to create a high-quality and durable painting with bright and saturated colors.