Over the next few 2-Minute Tip posts we will explore the pros and cons of painting surfaces. Today we are exploring wood panels.
When I first started painting, I created my work exclusively on canvas. Oh, I did some decorative painting on wood and other surfaces but not fine art. Now I don’t think I even have a blank canvas in the studio. I’m painting mostly on wood panels.
Wood panels come cradled or flat, primed or unprimed.
Do make sure you prime them if you purchase them unprimed as there’s a possibility that the oil from the wood could leach into your painting if you paint on the raw wood. And if you are going to prime it yourself, use 3 coats of gesso. You can apply it smooth or textured depending on your preference. Some folks sand between coats as the process can raise the grain of the wood. I like the added texture so I skip that step.
Pros:
-Great for smaller work especially sizes under 11″ x 14″
-Easy to store, the panels don’t take up much room.
-Easy to ship.
-Less prone to damage. It’s really hard to poke a hole in these puppies!
-Great for Plein air as they are less likely to blow away
-Affordable
Cons:
They are not so great for really large work as they are too heavy, and the larger flat panels will need to be reinforced. (If you are going to paint large, save yourself some time and buy the cradled panels.)
Have you tried painting on wood panels? Drop me a line and let me know how you like them.
Thanks for joining me today! For the latest tips and lessons, please be sure to subscribe to my YouTube Channel.