DIY Gesso: A Comprehensive Guide to Making Your Own Artist-Grade Primer
Gesso is an essential primer for artists working with various surfaces, particularly canvas. It creates a slightly textured, absorbent surface that allows paint to adhere properly and prevents it from sinking into the canvas fibers. While commercially available gesso is widely accessible, making your own gesso at home offers several advantages: it’s cost-effective, allows for customization of texture and absorbency, and provides a deeper understanding of the materials you’re working with. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of making high-quality gesso, covering different recipes, troubleshooting tips, and application techniques.
## Why Make Your Own Gesso?
Before diving into the recipes, let’s explore the benefits of crafting your own gesso:
* **Cost-Effectiveness:** Commercial gesso can be expensive, especially if you use it frequently. Making your own significantly reduces the cost, particularly if you buy ingredients in bulk.
* **Customization:** You have complete control over the texture, absorbency, and color of your gesso. Want a smoother surface? A more absorbent ground? You can adjust the recipe accordingly.
* **Archival Quality:** By using high-quality ingredients, you can create a gesso that is archival and will protect your artwork for years to come.
* **Deeper Understanding:** The process of making gesso allows you to understand the properties of each ingredient and how they interact, leading to a more informed approach to painting.
* **Satisfaction:** There’s a certain satisfaction in creating your own art materials, knowing exactly what went into them.
## Understanding the Ingredients
Traditional gesso recipes involve a few key components:
* **Binder:** The binder holds the ingredients together and adheres the gesso to the support. Common binders include:
* **Acrylic Polymer Emulsion (Acrylic Gesso):** This is the most common binder for modern gesso. It’s flexible, durable, and water-based, making it easy to work with and clean up. Brands like Golden or Liquitex offer excellent acrylic polymer emulsions.
* **Rabbit Skin Glue (Traditional Gesso):** Used in historical gesso recipes, rabbit skin glue provides excellent adhesion and creates a very absorbent surface. However, it requires more preparation and is less flexible than acrylic gesso, making it more prone to cracking on flexible supports. It also requires careful handling and preparation to prevent spoilage.
* **Pigment:** Pigments provide opacity and color to the gesso. The most common pigment is:
* **Titanium Dioxide (TiO2):** This is a bright white pigment with excellent opacity and lightfastness. It provides a brilliant white base for painting.
* **Calcium Carbonate (Whiting):** A less opaque, more absorbent alternative to Titanium Dioxide. Can be used in combination to adjust properties.
* **Filler:** Fillers add bulk, texture, and absorbency to the gesso. Common fillers include:
* **Calcium Carbonate (Whiting):** Also used as a pigment, whiting is a versatile filler that adds bulk and absorbency. It creates a slightly chalky surface.
* **Marble Dust (Calcium Carbonate):** Similar to whiting, marble dust is finely ground calcium carbonate, but it often has a slightly coarser texture. It adds a bit more tooth to the gesso.
* **Pumice Powder:** For a more textured gesso, pumice powder can be added. The fineness of the pumice will determine the degree of texture.
* **Kaolin Clay (China Clay):** Kaolin clay adds a smooth, velvety texture and increases the gesso’s opacity.
* **Additives (Optional):** Various additives can be used to modify the properties of the gesso:
* **Flow Improver (Retarder):** Slows down the drying time, allowing for a smoother application and reducing brushstrokes. Acrylic retarders are suitable for acrylic gesso.
* **Matte Medium:** Reduces the gloss of the gesso, creating a more matte surface.
* **UV Stabilizers:** Help protect the gesso from yellowing or degradation due to UV exposure.
* **Dispersant:** Helps the pigment and filler to mix evenly into the binder. Helpful when using large amounts of pigment.
## Recipe 1: Acrylic Gesso (Beginner-Friendly)
This recipe is the easiest and most versatile option for beginners. It’s based on acrylic polymer emulsion, making it durable, flexible, and easy to clean up.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Acrylic Polymer Emulsion (e.g., Golden GAC 100 or Liquitex Polymer Emulsion)
* 1 cup Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) pigment
* 1/2 cup Calcium Carbonate (Whiting) filler
* 1/2 cup Water (distilled is best)
* Optional: 1-2 tablespoons Acrylic Retarder
**Equipment:**
* Dust Mask (important when working with dry pigments)
* Gloves
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Mixing bowl (non-reactive, such as plastic or glass)
* Wooden spoon or spatula
* Immersion blender (optional, but recommended for a smoother consistency)
* Airtight container for storage
**Instructions:**
1. **Safety First:** Put on your dust mask and gloves to protect yourself from inhaling the dry pigments. Working in a well-ventilated area is also recommended.
2. **Pre-Mix Dry Ingredients:** In the mixing bowl, combine the Titanium Dioxide pigment and Calcium Carbonate filler. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to thoroughly mix the dry ingredients. This helps to prevent clumping when you add the liquid.
3. **Add Water:** Slowly add the water to the dry ingredients, mixing continuously to form a smooth paste. Ensure there are no lumps.
4. **Incorporate the Acrylic Polymer Emulsion:** Gradually add the acrylic polymer emulsion to the mixture, stirring constantly. Continue mixing until the mixture is homogenous. The mixture will likely thicken at this point.
5. **Immersion Blender (Optional):** For an ultra-smooth gesso, use an immersion blender to further mix the ingredients. This will break up any remaining clumps and create a more consistent texture. Be careful not to introduce too much air into the mixture, as this can create bubbles.
6. **Add Retarder (Optional):** If desired, add the acrylic retarder to slow down the drying time and improve the flow of the gesso. Start with a small amount (1 tablespoon) and adjust to your preference. Mix thoroughly.
7. **Check Consistency:** The gesso should have a smooth, creamy consistency, similar to thick paint or yogurt. If it’s too thick, add a small amount of water until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a bit more Titanium Dioxide or Calcium Carbonate. Remember that it will likely thicken slightly as it sits.
8. **Strain (Optional):** If you want an even smoother gesso, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or nylon stocking to remove any remaining lumps or particles.
9. **Storage:** Transfer the gesso to an airtight container. Label the container with the date and ingredients. Store in a cool, dry place. Properly stored gesso can last for several months.
## Recipe 2: Traditional Rabbit Skin Glue Gesso (Intermediate/Advanced)
This recipe uses rabbit skin glue as the binder, creating a very absorbent and flexible surface. It’s ideal for artists who appreciate the unique qualities of traditional materials, but it requires more preparation and care.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup Rabbit Skin Glue granules
* 4 cups Distilled Water (for soaking and mixing the glue)
* 2 cups Calcium Carbonate (Whiting) filler
* 1 cup Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) pigment (optional, for brighter white)
**Equipment:**
* Dust Mask
* Gloves
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Double boiler or saucepan and heat-safe bowl
* Wooden spoon or spatula
* Paint strainer or cheesecloth
* Airtight container for storage
* Thermometer
**Instructions:**
1. **Soak the Rabbit Skin Glue:** Place the rabbit skin glue granules in a bowl and cover with 2 cups of cold distilled water. Let the glue soak for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The glue will absorb the water and swell.
2. **Prepare the Glue Solution:** After soaking, the glue will have a jelly-like consistency. Gently heat the glue in a double boiler or saucepan with a heat-safe bowl. Avoid direct heat, as this can damage the glue. Maintain a temperature between 130-140°F (55-60°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature. Stir occasionally until the glue is completely dissolved and the solution is clear.
3. **Heat the Remaining Water:** In a separate saucepan, heat the remaining 2 cups of distilled water to a gentle simmer. Do not boil.
4. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** While the glue is heating, combine the Calcium Carbonate and Titanium Dioxide (if using) in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
5. **Temper the Glue:** Slowly add a small amount of the hot glue solution to the dry ingredients, mixing continuously to create a smooth paste. This process is called tempering and helps to prevent the dry ingredients from clumping when added to the main glue solution.
6. **Combine Ingredients:** Gradually add the remaining hot glue solution to the paste, mixing constantly until the mixture is homogenous and smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a small amount of the hot water until you reach the desired consistency. It should be similar to a thin cream.
7. **Strain the Gesso:** Strain the gesso through a paint strainer or several layers of cheesecloth to remove any lumps or impurities. This is essential for a smooth application.
8. **Keep Warm:** Rabbit skin glue gesso needs to be applied warm, as it will gel as it cools. Keep the gesso in a double boiler or warm water bath while you are applying it. Maintain a temperature between 100-120°F (38-49°C). A slow cooker on the “warm” setting can also be used.
9. **Apply Immediately:** Rabbit Skin Glue gesso cannot be stored. Make only what you need for a single session of priming.
## Applying Gesso
Whether you’re using acrylic or rabbit skin glue gesso, the application process is similar.
1. **Prepare the Surface:** Ensure the surface you’re applying the gesso to is clean, dry, and free of any loose debris. For canvas, make sure it’s properly stretched and taut.
2. **Thinning (Optional):** For the first layer, you may want to thin the gesso slightly with water (for acrylic gesso) or hot water (for rabbit skin glue gesso) to improve its penetration into the surface. Don’t over-thin, as this can weaken the gesso.
3. **Apply the First Coat:** Use a wide, soft brush or a foam roller to apply the first coat of gesso. Apply it evenly in long, smooth strokes, working in one direction. Avoid applying it too thickly, as this can lead to cracking.
4. **Let it Dry:** Allow the first coat of gesso to dry completely. This may take several hours, depending on the humidity and temperature. Acrylic gesso will dry faster than rabbit skin glue gesso. The gesso should be dry to the touch and feel slightly chalky.
5. **Sand (Optional):** Once the first coat is dry, you can lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit or higher) to remove any imperfections and create a smoother surface. Wipe away any sanding dust with a clean, dry cloth.
6. **Apply Subsequent Coats:** Apply subsequent coats of gesso, following the same procedure as the first coat. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. The number of coats will depend on the desired level of smoothness and opacity. Two to three coats are usually sufficient for acrylic gesso, while traditional gesso often requires more.
7. **Sanding Between Coats (Optional):** You can lightly sand between each coat to achieve an even smoother surface.
8. **Final Sanding (Optional):** After the final coat is dry, you can sand it one last time to create a perfectly smooth surface. Be careful not to sand through the gesso layer, especially if using rabbit skin glue gesso.
## Tips and Troubleshooting
* **Bubbles:** Air bubbles can sometimes form in the gesso during mixing or application. To minimize bubbles, avoid over-mixing and use a slow, steady motion. If bubbles appear during application, gently brush them out before the gesso dries. Warming the gesso slightly can also reduce bubble formation. For acrylic gesso, letting it sit for a while allows air to rise and dissipate before use.
* **Cracking:** Cracking can occur if the gesso is applied too thickly, if it dries too quickly, or if the surface is too flexible. To prevent cracking, apply the gesso in thin, even coats, and allow each coat to dry slowly. For flexible supports, use acrylic gesso, which is more flexible than rabbit skin glue gesso. If using rabbit skin glue gesso, apply multiple thin coats to build up the surface gradually.
* **Chalkiness:** Gesso can sometimes feel too chalky or absorbent. To reduce chalkiness, add a small amount of acrylic polymer emulsion to the gesso mixture. You can also apply a thin layer of acrylic medium or varnish over the dried gesso to seal it and reduce its absorbency.
* **Yellowing:** Over time, some gessoes, especially those containing linseed oil or low-quality pigments, can yellow. To prevent yellowing, use high-quality, lightfast pigments and store your artwork in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Adding UV stabilizers to the acrylic gesso recipe can also help.
* **Uneven Application:** Uneven application can lead to noticeable brushstrokes or variations in texture. To avoid this, use a good-quality brush or foam roller and apply the gesso in long, smooth strokes. Overlap each stroke slightly to ensure even coverage. Lightly sanding between coats can also help to smooth out any imperfections.
* **Mold Growth:** Rabbit skin glue gesso is susceptible to mold growth if not prepared and stored properly. Always use distilled water and ensure that all equipment is clean. Add a small amount of fungicide to the glue solution to inhibit mold growth. Store the glue in a cool, dry place and discard any unused portion after a few days.
* **Gesso Peeling:** Gesso may peel if the surface is not properly prepared or if the gesso is not compatible with the surface. Ensure that the surface is clean, dry, and free of any loose debris. Lightly sand the surface before applying the gesso to improve adhesion. Choose a gesso that is appropriate for the surface you are working with. For example, use acrylic gesso for flexible supports and rabbit skin glue gesso for rigid supports.
* **Too Absorbent:** If your gesso is too absorbent, your paint may sink into the surface and lose its vibrancy. To reduce absorbency, apply a thin layer of acrylic medium or varnish over the dried gesso before painting. You can also add a small amount of clay or kaolin to the gesso recipe to make it less absorbent.
## Customizing Your Gesso
One of the best things about making your own gesso is the ability to customize it to your specific needs and preferences.
* **Colored Gesso:** Add small amounts of acrylic paint or pigment to your gesso mixture to create a colored ground. This can be a great way to add depth and interest to your paintings. Start with a small amount of color and add more until you achieve the desired intensity. Earth pigments like umber, sienna, and ochre are popular choices for creating warm, toned grounds.
* **Textured Gesso:** Add texture to your gesso by incorporating materials like sand, pumice powder, or marble dust. The amount of texture will depend on the amount and coarseness of the material you add. Experiment with different materials to create unique and interesting surfaces.
* **Absorbent Gesso:** Increase the absorbency of your gesso by adding more calcium carbonate or whiting. This will create a surface that is ideal for watercolor or other water-based media.
* **Smooth Gesso:** To create an extremely smooth surface, use finely ground calcium carbonate or marble dust and strain the gesso through a fine-mesh sieve or nylon stocking. Apply the gesso in thin, even coats and sand lightly between each coat.
* **Flexible Gesso:** When working on flexible surfaces like fabric, use acrylic gesso with a high percentage of acrylic polymer emulsion. This will create a more flexible and durable ground that is less likely to crack.
## Conclusion
Making your own gesso is a rewarding experience that allows you to create a high-quality primer tailored to your specific artistic needs. Whether you choose the convenience of acrylic gesso or the traditional charm of rabbit skin glue gesso, understanding the ingredients and techniques involved will empower you to create a superior surface for your paintings. So, gather your materials, experiment with different recipes, and enjoy the process of crafting your own artist-grade gesso. Happy painting!