How to Prepare Panels for Oil Painting
Panels have been used as supports, or materials to which paint is applied, since, at least, the time of the Old Masters in the 15th and 16th centuries. Contemporary artists have a wide variety of panel surfaces to choose from, including hard (plywoods, masonite) and clay (or gesso-treated boards). All of these types of panels, with the exception of gesso-treated boards, require preparation before painting with oil paints. Ultimately, however, the choice of how to treat supports depends on the desired result. Untreated board or clay boards will absorb the oil from the paint, giving a matte, quick-drying surface.
- Panel
- Fine grit sandpaper
- Linseed oil
- Lint-free cloth
- Wide brush
- Oil gesso
- Sealant (many brands available)
- Foam brush
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Instructions
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1
Lightly sand bare hard and plywood to open up the grain so that it can "grip" the preparation layers.
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2
Apply a generous coating of linseed oil across the surface of the panel and allow it to soak into the board for at least two minutes. This is called "oiling out" the panel. Wipe off any excess oil using a lint-free cloth.
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3
Paint a thin, even coating of oil gesso across the surface of the panel and allow the gesso to dry completely. A thin layer of oil gesso can take a few hours to dry, depending on the brand and the level of humidity in your environment.
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4
Seal the back and sides of the board using the sealant applied with a foam brush. Allow the sealant to dry (per manufacturer's instructions) before painting.