Gesso - Ranger

Dina Wakley Media - Adhesives, Gesso and Mediums White Gesso 4 oz. Jar. Gesso is an artist quality...

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This guide is for artists and crafters looking to prepare surfaces for paint and other mediums. The Ranger Gesso offers an artist-quality primer that ensures paint and mediums adhere well, providing a smooth application. A potential limitation is its subtle texture, which might not be ideal for artists seeking an ultra-smooth finish without additional sanding.

All features

Model Part NumberMDM41689
BrandRanger

Extended Product Information

FAQs

What surfaces can I use this gesso on?

This artist-quality gesso is ideal for preparing a variety of surfaces including canvas, wood, paper, cardboard, metal, and other non-oily substrates for painting and mixed media.

How many coats of gesso should I apply?

Typically, one to three thin, even coats are sufficient. The number of coats depends on the desired surface texture and the absorbency of the underlying material. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.

Can I mix colors into the gesso?

While this gesso is primarily white, you can mix a small amount of artist's acrylic paint into it to create tinted grounds. However, adding too much color may affect its priming properties.

Is this gesso suitable for children's crafts?

Yes, this gesso is acid and toxic-free, making it safe for use in arts and crafts projects, including those involving children.

How do I clean my tools after using the gesso?

Clean brushes, palette knives, and other application tools immediately after use with soap and warm water. Dried gesso can be very difficult to remove.

What is the difference between this gesso and the gel medium?

Gesso is primarily used as a primer to prepare surfaces for paint. Gel medium is more versatile, functioning as an adhesive, a sealant, an extension for paints, and can be used in various mixed-media techniques.

Will this gesso work with oil paints?

Yes, this gesso is suitable as a ground for oil paints. It creates a stable surface that prevents the oil from degrading the canvas fibers over time.

Troubleshooting

Gesso is too thick or clumpy.

If the gesso is slightly thick, you can add a very small amount of water and mix thoroughly. Avoid adding too much water, as this can compromise the gesso's integrity. If it's severely clumpy or dried out, it may be unusable.

Paint is not adhering well to the primed surface.

Ensure the gesso was applied evenly and allowed to dry completely. Make sure the surface was clean and free of dust or oils before application. If the gesso is too smooth, consider applying a second thin coat or using a different primer with more tooth.

Gesso is cracking after drying.

This is unusual as the gesso is designed to be flexible. Ensure you are not applying it too thickly in one coat, which can lead to stress as it dries. Also, confirm the temperature during application and drying is within a reasonable range (not extreme cold or heat).

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Excellent adhesion for paints and mediums.
  • Versatile for use on multiple surfaces.
  • Dries quickly and remains flexible.
  • Provides a good tooth for subsequent layers.
  • Artist-grade quality suitable for professional use.

Cons

  • The texture may require additional sanding for extremely smooth finishes.
  • Only available in white and black variants.
  • The 4 oz jar may be insufficient for large-scale projects.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup: No specific setup is required. Open the jar and use as is.

Compatibility: This gesso is compatible with most acrylic paints, mediums, inks, pastels, charcoal, and graphite. It adheres well to canvas, wood, paper, metal, and other non-oily surfaces.

Care:

  1. Storage: Store the gesso in its original, tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  2. Cleaning: Clean brushes, palette knives, and other tools immediately after use with soap and water. Dried gesso can be difficult to remove.
  3. Surface Prep: Ensure the surface you are priming is clean and free of dust or grease for optimal adhesion.