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The canvas is the foundation of your artwork. It affects everything from paint application to durability and final presentation. Selecting the right surface helps bring your creative vision to life. At Eckersley’s, we offer a wide variety of high-quality canvases that cater to all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned professional or a passionate hobbyist. Understanding the type, size, and material of canvas you need ensures that your medium performs at its best and your artwork lasts for years to come.
Types of Canvases Available
At Eckersley’s, we stock canvases suited to various styles and techniques. Here’s a look at the types available:
- Stretched Canvas: The go-to option for many artists. These canvases are tightly stretched over a wooden frame and come pre-primed, ready to use with oil, acrylic, or mixed media. Their durability and texture make them versatile for detailed work and heavier paint applications.
- Canvas Panels: Ideal for art students, hobbyists, and anyone needing a lightweight, portable solution. Canvas panels are fabric adhered to a sturdy board. They’re a cost-effective option without sacrificing the feel of a canvas surface.
- Rolled Canvas: If you need flexibility in sizing or prefer to stretch your own canvas, rolled canvas is your best bet. Available in different materials like cotton or linen, it’s perfect for large-scale or custom-sized projects.
- Canvas Pads: Canvas pads offer primed sheets ideal for sketching, practice work, or preliminary studies. They are particularly useful for experimentation, allowing you to work on multiple pieces without committing to a stretched canvas.
Choosing the Right Canvas for Your Medium
The medium you use influences the type of canvas you should select. Here’s how to pick the right one for your chosen paints:
- Acrylic Paint: Acrylics perform well on almost any primed surface, with stretched canvas and panels being ideal choices. The texture of the canvas provides good adhesion, and the flexibility of acrylic paint works beautifully on both cotton and linen surfaces.
- Oil Paint: Oils require more preparation and a durable surface that can handle slow drying times. Stretched canvas, especially with an oil-based primer, is a great choice. Cotton and linen canvases hold up well to the heavy layers and solvents involved in oil painting.
- Water-based Media: Watercolour and gouache aren’t traditionally used on canvas, but specially primed surfaces are available for these media. Canvas pads designed for mixed media are an excellent option for those wanting to explore this approach.
Canvas Sizes and Customisation
Finding the right canvas size is as critical as choosing the right material. Eckersley’s offers canvases in a range of dimensions to fit every project:
- Pre-Stretched Canvas: Available in sizes ranging from small 8" x 10" canvases for studies to large 36" x 48" canvases for statement pieces, these are ideal for ready-to-go painting.
- Rolled Canvas: For custom sizes, rolled canvas offers complete freedom. This option is perfect for murals, non-standard shapes, or oversized works. Simply cut the canvas to your desired dimensions and stretch it yourself.
Customisation is key for professional artists with specific project requirements. We also provide the option to have canvases professionally stretched and framed in-store.
Featured Canvas Products at Eckersley’s
Eckersley’s is proud to stock premium canvas brands that are known for their quality and reliability. Here are some of our standout products:
Jasart Stretched Canvas
A trusted name in the Australian art world, Jasart’s stretched canvases are pre-primed and ready to go. They’re crafted from 100% cotton and are suitable for both acrylic and oil paints. Available in a wide range of sizes, they offer excellent value without compromising on quality.
Winsor & Newton Professional Canvas Range
The Winsor & Newton professional canvas range is an excellent choice for artists seeking portability and a sturdy surface. These canvases are made from primed cotton canvas mounted on a rigid backing, making them ideal for students, plein air painting, or quick studies. They’re suitable for both acrylic and oil paints, and the smooth texture helps achieve fine details.
Micador For Artists Canvas on the Roll Primed
For those needing custom sizes, the Micador For Artists Canvas on the Roll Primed provides flexibility and professional quality. Made from durable, acid-free cotton, this roll comes pre-primed with universal gesso, ready for both acrylic and oil paints. It’s perfect for large-scale works or unique dimensions.
Tips for Preparing Your Canvas
Once you’ve chosen your ideal canvas, proper preparation can make a big difference to the final outcome. Here are some key tips:
Priming Your Canvas for Different Paints
While most canvases come pre-primed, adding an extra layer of primer can enhance paint adhesion and the surface texture.
- For Acrylic Paints: Use acrylic gesso to create a smooth, even surface. Two to three coats will give your canvas more body and improve paint application.
- For Oil Paints: Oil-based primers are essential when working with oil paints to prevent the paint from deteriorating the canvas over time. Be sure to let each layer of primer dry thoroughly before applying the next.
How to Store and Care for Your Canvas
Taking care of your canvas ensures it remains in excellent condition, whether you’re working on it or storing it for later use.
- Store canvases in a dry environment: Humidity can warp the wooden frame or cause the canvas fabric to slacken. Keep them in a cool, dry place to avoid this.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause your canvas to fade or yellow over time. It’s best to store and display your artwork in shaded or indirect light.
- Use protective covers: If you’re transporting your artwork, cover it with plastic or bubble wrap to protect it from dust, scratches, and moisture.
At Eckersley’s, we’re dedicated to supporting artists with top-quality materials and expert advice. Whether you’re looking for pre-stretched canvases, custom sizing, or trusted brands like Jasart and Winsor & Newton, we have the perfect canvas for every project. Check out the range on our website or visit your local store to browse our full range and buy artist canvas online today!
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