Gesso is a liquid primer used to prepare a canvas for the application of paint. You can find gesso in a variety of colors for your painting needs, but the most commonly used color is white. If you want to paint on an unusual surface or need to prime a canvas, you will need gesso to ensure the paint stays in place and your colors show up as vibrantly as possible. Preparing a surface with gesso is a relatively simple process.
Instructions
1. Shake the gesso container to ensure it is evenly mixed.
2. Apply some gesso to your paintbrush.
3. Coat the canvas or painting surface with a thin layer of gesso. Try to apply gesso as evenly as possible across the entire surface of the medium.
4. Coat the canvas or painting surface with a thin layer of gesso. Try to apply gesso as evenly as possible across the entire surface of the medium.
5. Apply a second or third coat of gesso depending on your desires. One coat is usually enough, but some painters may opt for several coats to ensure the deepest, most even tone.
