While painting on wood panels that have been properly prepped, you can expect a surface that offers structure, durability, and a beautifully smooth surface. But, without this preparation, you run the risk of uneven absorption, cracking, warping, or discoloration. Yikes! Today, we’re going to highlight five common mistakes and how you can avoid them!
Don’t Skip the Sealant Step
Imagine you’re working through your sketchbook when suddenly inspiration for your next piece hits. You may be tempted to begin applying gesso directly to the raw wood of your panel. But by skipping the sealing process entirely, wood can absorb moisture, oils, or pigments from your ground and paints. Because of wood's naturally porous nature, if you don't seal your surface, you may have a finished project with dulled colors and an unstable foundation that can deteriorate over time.
Renaissance painter Giovanni Bellini was one of the first to make an effort to seal wood panels before applying his medium. The result? His works have lasted centuries with minimal degradation and well-preserved pigments. You want your work to have the same opportunity to be preserved for future generations, and that is precisely why it is essential not to skip the sealant step. Sealing wood panels could mean the difference between being forgotten and being remembered in art history!
How to Build a Solid Foundation
When starting a new project or layering your masterpiece, the importance of the “foundation” is often emphasized. In both scenarios, you want to make the most reliable choice. The same goes for creating the foundation of your artwork. For instance, you can utilize a clear, flexible sealant like Golden’s GAC100 (a favorite of Trekell customers). With the application of one to two thin coats with a soft brush or foam applicator, and time to dry before priming, you will be on your way to creating your next masterpiece.
Take the guesswork out of gesso, and keep in mind that not all Gesso (or Ground) is created equally. Using the wrong ground could result in poor adhesion and bubbles on your surface. Media such as watercolor, encaustic, or charcoal practically require a specific type of ground. While acrylic gesso is a go-to for acrylic and oil, it’s unsuitable for absorbent media like watercolor or encaustic without the right base. Check out the links below to discover the perfect primer, gesso, and sealant for your desired medium.
● Acrylic
● Oil
For predictable results, make sure to test your ground on a scrap panel before committing. This will provide you with an idea of the expected texture, absorption, and compatibility!
Don’t Rush Past the Refinement
When working on a wooden panel, skipping the sanding process between coats of sealant or gesso leads to uneven surfaces, unwanted texture, and inconsistent paint flow. Not only that, but a gritty base can soak up paint unpredictably, dulling your colors and causing cracks over time. Thankfully, there is an easy solution, and by using fine-grit sandpaper (220–320) between each layer of sealant and ground, you will be able to create a smooth and professional surface. Did you know? Artist John Singer Sargent was known for sanding down layers of gesso and oil to achieve a refined, glassy surface, ideal for his fluid brushwork.
Using the Wrong Adhesive for Paper or Linen
When mounting paper or linen to a panel, leave the school glue to the kids, and stick to archival, pH-neutral adhesives. Classic, school glue, and other non-archival adhesives are intentionally low quality. This lack in quality can cause a plethora of issues, such as wrinkling, yellowing, or peeling. Additionally, these mediocre adhesives will not stand a chance when it comes to wet media. We recommend options like Lineco Neutral pH Adhesive or archival PVA glues.
Don’t Ignore Storage and Environmental Conditions
Without proper storage, sealed panels can swell or warp. This puts your finished work at risk of significant damage. Sure, it may be convenient to store your panels in garages, basements, or attics, but all of these places are often subjected to constantly changing temperatures. To keep your panels pristine, store them flat or upright with airflow, avoid high humidity, direct sunlight, or damp conditions.
Trekell Pro Tip: Our panels are made from high-quality Baltic birch and CNC-cut for consistency. Their thicker builds help resist warping in varied climates.
Don’t let your foundation fail your art. A reliable surface starts long before the first brushstroke. As a dedicated artist, you want the best panels for painting and to know how to prepare them well. This preparation is not a tedious chore; it prevents mistakes and ensures a surface your creativity deserves. Panel prep may feel like a tedious and time-consuming activity, but when you remember that by doing this prep work, you are giving your art a chance to survive for generations. Sealing to sanding, each step gives your work the solid, archival foundation it deserves, and when done right, a well-prepped wood panel enhances your skills and finished product.
Need supplies? Explore Trekell’s range of panels, gessos, grounds, and professional brushes to create with confidence!
