Canvas stretched on a panel?

[David Dowbyhuz]

I've come across a few of you who seem to prefer painting on canvas-stretched panels?

What kind of panel won't flex and "cup" over time? (Like many of us, I started painting on the economical "canvas boards", and found that over time they warp in the larger sizes. I haven't painted on anything but canvas-over-stretchers ever since.)

Now, when I stretch canvas onto stretchers, I'm able to tack it down along the top edge while pulling down with the cavas pliers. Surely you're not using panels that thick, are you?

Doesn't this make your paintings heavy?

I do like the notion of painting on a firmer surface. At the same time I might miss the "give" of the taut surface when applying pressure with the brush. That spring came add rhythm to your strokes.

[Chris Saper]

Dear David,

I have had wonderful results using panels, for paintings up to about 32" x 40" (yes, they get quite heavy any larger). I have been using tempered masonite 1/4", or 1/8 " if small, and gluing my Belgian linen to the smooth side.

I use an archival bookbinder's glue that I mail order from DEMCO, in Wisconsin.I believe they have a web site. Let me know if you can't find contact info, and I will look it up for you.

Good luck, Chris

[Tom Martinez]

Chris, what is your experience with rabbit skin glue? How and with what do you prime your panels?

[Chris Saper]

Hi Tom,

I have never used rabbit skin glue,(although I think I recall a forum discussion related to that).

I don't prime the materials at all. With the tempered masonite, I use a sponge paint roller to apply the Demco glue in an even coat to the smooth side, then apply the pre-primed canvas. This is a canvas prep method I learned some years ago when I studied with Dan Gerhartz, whom I consider to be extraordinary not only in his work, but also in his methods. I have been working in oil for about five years now, and my first canvases are still in beautiful condition; of course, I can't attest to what they may be like in 25 years.

Best regards,
Chris

[Tom Martinez]

Chris, with the present condition of some of the books in my library, I'm not too sure I trust bookbinders glue. I understand that rabbit skin glue is a traditional method. So, I'm inclined to go in that direction. Thank you for your response. Happy holidays to you and yours.