Materials that last: canvas, stretchers and paint

The value of your work depends partly on how long it lasts. Collectors, galleries and conservators notice materials.

Stretchers

Use dry, straight, seasoned wood, treated against termites, with keys (wedges) at the corners so the canvas can be tightened later. Larger works need cross-bars.

Canvas and grounds

Primed cotton or linen of good weight. Prime properly; paint on unprimed or poorly primed canvas can crack and flake.

Paint and varnish

Artist-grade paints keep their colour longer than student grades. Varnish oil and acrylic works when fully dry; it protects the surface and can be removed and renewed by a conservator.

Where to buy

OxiArt shows art supplies only from shops on Oxishops. See Supplies and services; shops that want to be found in person also appear on the art map.