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Alan, I never have sized my canvases of applied the lead primer. I buy presized and preprimed linen. I don't have the space to let my canvases cure. When I move and get a larger studio I would love to do this. Different flake whites have various vegetable oils added and this would effect the drying time. Flake and CP Linseed Oil would probably dry overnight.
Linda, I hope you were using a dust mask when you were sanding.
I believe that Reynolds used Megilup, the precursor to Maroger medium. He was known to experiment with a variety of materials so it's really anyones guess. I'm sure that there have been studies done by qualified scientists as to the specifics. It is my understanding that prior to the 18th century there is little evidence that anything other than linseed oil and, to a lesser degree, walnut oil were used.
I believe that there are no magic mediums or grounds. I can get the paint to do what I want it to with just linseed oil. So why not stick with what works? When these new materials and mediums have been around one hundred years maybe I'll try them then. I think all this medium hopping distracts the focus from where it should be.
Like Sharon I love the texture of canvas to drag my brush against. I hate working on perfectly smooth surfaces. But to each his own. I just wanted to remind folks that the old way is a very good option.
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