Gesso Grounds and Chalk Grounds: Structure, Preparation, and Practice
Learn how to prepare traditional gesso grounds using historical materials and techniques. Ideal for oil, tempera, and gilding on rigid supports.
Category: Paint
A colored substance which is spread over a surface and dries to leave a thin decorative or protective coating.
paint
From the Ground Up: Painting Ground Lessons from 19th-Century and Modern Practice
Discover how 19th-century painting ground materials impact durability and technique—and what every artist should know about modern commercial ground…
Leonardo da Vinci’s Lead Ground: A Study in Oil Saponification and Technique
Discover how Leonardo da Vinci prepared his lead ground using oil and PbO—based on new analysis of the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper.
Varnishing Acrylic Paintings: Best Practices from Conservation Research
Discover expert techniques for varnishing acrylic paintings, including material selection, application tips, and long-term preservation.
Oil Paint Darkening: Causes and Fixes for Accurate Color Tints
Discover how pigment density, Marangoni flow, and drying rates trigger oil paint darkening, and follow studio-tested steps—viscosity boosts, CPVC co…
Acrylic Gesso vs Oil Primer: Cold Weather Performance for Artists
Compare acrylic gesso vs oil primer for flexible supports. Learn how each performs in cold weather and what artists must know to prevent cracking and …
Understanding Water Sensitivity in Oil Paint: What Artists Must Know
Learn what causes water sensitivity in oil paint, how to avoid it, and best practices for material selection, technique, and long-term artwork care.
Titanium White Oil Paint: Stability, Degradation, and Best Practices
Learn how titanium white oil paint formulations impact long-term durability, degradation, and performance. Essential guidance for professional artists…
Alkyd vs Oil Paints: Understanding Their Differences and Best Practices
Discover the differences between alkyd and oil paints, including drying time, durability, and best painting techniques.
Mastering Historical Painting Techniques: Insights from Netherlandish Art
Discover the materials and methods used by Netherlandish artists. Learn how historical painting techniques can enhance modern art.