For the longest time, I would scratch my head when people said they stretched their own canvases - why would one take all that time when you can buy quality ones at really good prices - if I did my research? Didn't make sense to me, especially when there is such amazing products out there (i.e. New Traditions Panels, Raymar, Sourcetek, Utrecht). During my trip to Maine, I was introduced to the process of making my own linen panels on gatorboard using a heat activated adhesive instead of messy glue and weighting down the boards. Using 1/2" foam gatorboard, Laminall, Claessens #66 Linen and my iron (with a sheet), my format sizes are unlimited! Is it cheap - NO, but it is easy.
The funny thing that happened was how much I enjoy the process. I enjoy knowing that I have started my creations from the very beginning. I like being able to get any size, any composition on a surface that I have chosen with loving care and made with my own hands! I have also helped my framer design my most recent frames to complete the package. I love the satisfaction of looking at a studio filled with empty prepared panels waiting to become paintings that I have already chosen the format and done the thumbnails for. It adds to my excitement to get started! The day might come where I go back to using prepared products as a time saver, but for now I think I will explore the possibilities....
Here is a link to my friend Lori McNee and her Fine Art Tips video of making the panels. She has a step by step process to follow and though we differ on preference of gesso and linen texture, it's the same process. I hope you enjoy and feel free to comment if you have questions or need more info!
Thank you for the tips on making your own linen panels! I am going to try it. Do you prime your panels with oil or anything after they are done? Which linen surface do you prefer? I love the look of your paintings ( "like breath on glass")
ReplyDeleteDianne
My favorite book of the moment Dianne!!!! Thank you so much!
ReplyDeleteI used single oil-primed linen at the moment and don't do anything but paint when they are done!! It is so easy with such a great reward! I have done much research and found the best price on the linen is at ASW Art Supplies and the foam board at Foamboard Source.com. If you find somewhere different, please share!!!!
Hey Shanna! Thank you for the info on this process....you mention the freedom of using any dimension...are you cutting to size once it's all done, or are you precutting the gatorboard, and what do you use to get clean edges when you cut it? Thanks again and am enjoying your blog!
ReplyDeleteCindy Stapper
Hi Cindy! I cut the gatorboard down to size first using my mat cutter (from watercolor years). Then I cut the linen about 1/2 in larger than the board all the way around. After mounting it, I turn it over and use my little Olfa cutter (from sewing years) to trim the excess. I flip it back over, throw the sheet on top and do a little more pressing around the corners and edges and ta-da!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the particulars - I plan to give it a go!
ReplyDeleteOne time I bought a small painting on ebay, and when I received it, I found it to be canvas mounted on gatorboard. I thought it was a genius thing to do...very strong but incredibly lightweight. I appreciate your post, as I have always wondered how to do it and I was afraid to do it wrong and ruin a painting. Thanks so much!
ReplyDeleteConnie, it's so simple you will be amazed! Just be sure and cover the linen with a sheet before using your iron. I've been told you have to be careful the iron isn't too hot on oil primed gesso and that acrylic gesso is not quite as particular. Good luck!
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