Canvas Painting Canvas Preparation and Priming 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the purpose of 'toning' a canvas before painting?
- To establish a mid-value base and eliminate the stark white (Correct answer)
- To make the canvas waterproof
- To increase the canvas texture
- To fix gesso mistakes
Correct answer: To establish a mid-value base and eliminate the stark white
Toning applies a thin color wash over the white gesso to remove harsh contrast and set a unified mid-tone.
Question 2: What is 'rabbit skin glue' historically used for in canvas preparation?
- As a sizing agent to seal raw canvas before priming (Correct answer)
- As a painting medium mixed into oil paint
- As a varnish applied after painting
- As a canvas stretching adhesive
Correct answer: As a sizing agent to seal raw canvas before priming
Rabbit skin glue is a traditional sizing applied to raw canvas to seal fibers before oil-based ground is applied.
Question 3: What happens if oil paint is applied directly to unprimed raw canvas?
- The oil soaks into the fibers and rots the canvas over time (Correct answer)
- The paint dries faster
- Colors appear more vibrant
- Nothing harmful occurs
Correct answer: The oil soaks into the fibers and rots the canvas over time
Oil from unprimed paint penetrates raw canvas fibers, causing them to rot and deteriorate over decades.
Question 4: What direction should gesso be applied to ensure even coverage?
- Alternating horizontal and vertical strokes between coats (Correct answer)
- Always in circles
- Only vertical strokes
- Only horizontal strokes
Correct answer: Alternating horizontal and vertical strokes between coats
Alternating stroke directions between coats ensures full, even coverage and reduces visible brushstroke texture.
Question 5: What is a 'canvas board' in the context of canvas painting?
- Canvas glued to a rigid cardboard or hardboard backing (Correct answer)
- A stretched canvas on a wooden frame
- A paper substitute for canvas
- A synthetic non-fabric painting surface
Correct answer: Canvas glued to a rigid cardboard or hardboard backing
A canvas board is canvas adhered to a stiff backing, providing a rigid, affordable painting surface popular with students.
Question 6: How long should gesso dry between coats when preparing a canvas?
- At least 30 minutes to 1 hour per coat (Correct answer)
- 5 minutes per coat
- 12 hours minimum per coat
- Overnight only
Correct answer: At least 30 minutes to 1 hour per coat
Allowing 30 minutes to an hour between gesso coats ensures proper drying before sanding and applying the next layer.
Canvas Painting Canvas Preparation and Priming 2
What is the purpose of 'toning' a canvas before painting?