How to Prep Wood to Be Painted on

[@elcidbob]

Yo, don't buy most of this stuff from art stores. Hardware stores will sell stuff like the sandpaper and brush/sponge for so much cheaper. You can also find a better selection of woods for much cheaper at lumber stores too, especially if they have scraps. On top of that many of these places will let you buy something like an 8' long 1x6, then they'll cut it down for you--sometimes for free, usually for really cheap

[@williammaldonado3516]

Thank for the tip! 👍

[@crowickedone4037]

Yeah, half of the stuff i use is from hardware stores or kitchen supplies, only essencials i buy from the art stores

[@A_ndrea]

This is the BEST advice ever.

[@nicolar.hodges938]

HI, FINALLY ... FOR BEGINNERS, SOMEONE WHO CAN EXPLAIN THE PROCESS IN A SIMPLE WAY. VERY HELPFUL THANKS. SORRY SOME PEOPLE HAVE TO BE RUDE IN ORDER TO GET THEIR POINT ACROSS !

[@AlyssaMees]

Hi Nicola! Thank you! I’m so happy to hear I explained the process in a simple and understandable way 🙂

[@reesea365]

FINALLY someone explained this to me! So helpful!

[@melissamccoy5243]

Right

[@fabrizio483]

MDF panels are pretty good, also; they have the advantage of being thinner and cheaper, as well. I recommend.

[@peregrinesteller]

Thank you 🙏. I didn’t know clear gesso existed, and I have be searching for a tutorial to prep wood for painting that didn’t completely obliterate the character of the wood!

[@twilit]

What a great video! You explained and showed exactly why to take the steps you take. It’s rare to find such a clear and helpful teacher. I have subscribed and look forward to learning more from you. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@margiesvanmori]

Very cool! I am trying to use the pieces of wood that I miscut from my van build in order to make something beautiful from the mistakes. I love paintings on wood- there's something extra beautiful about them. Thank you for the video!

[@z7412]

Great demo. Love that you showed the difference of bare vs. primed. Subbed! :D

[@lykri3350]

I have two balsa wood tea boxes to finish. For the sealer, can I use mod podge? I do not want to buy another glue.

[@snap_crackle_popshaw7958]

This was so helpful!!! I have been searching n searching. I like what I found now. On to acrylic pour on wood!!!! Thanks a lot!!!!

[@tgochitashvili]

Thank you, this was the most informative video in this section. Now i am ready to paint.

[@veroniquezerbib8104]

Your video was extremely helpful! Thanks a lot!! And your art looks amazing BTW!

[@AlyssaMees]

Ah thank you so much!

[@aokisatsuki3767]

oh my, your paintings though ! 😍💕

[@adedejiakinsanya6000]

your voice is so soothing.

[@aabg12]

Thank you!!! Thanks to you my painting came out good! I was about to paint on it without putting gesso but I did my reaserch and found this videoooo thank youu so muchhhh I subbed❤❤

[@malgozata1875]

Hi Alyssa, thank you for the informative video. Super helpful. One thing i would change in your process, in step 2, is: Instead of brushing the dust off, which only makes it airborne, i learned to wipe the surface with a damp paper/shop rag towel. It picks up the particles nicely and no one has to breathe in the dust. Then, i brush it gently to eliminate any possible lint. Yes, this may mean giving wood surface a few minutes to dry off before applying clear gesso. FYI: this fellow, Clive, kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5rEhWl5m7V8jpY uses mixture of glue/water to seal the wood before applying his home made gesso. Alyssa, I am very sorry about the rude comments. The only explanation is that they came from very temperamental artistic culture, the prima donnas of art culture. They are very talented, but as with many geniuses, they are impatient, intolerant and very direct. Hope you don't take them personally. Kudos for you for being brave and making this video. Best wishes. FYI, curious, i did some research as to how the wood was prepared for painting in the 15th century before the discovery of fabric canvas. Here are some interesting informational links: History of wood preparation: blogs.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk/hki/2013/04/02/reconstructing-a-15th-century-panel-painting/#:~:text=First%2C%20the%20wooden%20panel%20was,other%20impurities%20in%20the%20wood. Original sealant: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabbit-skin_glue Gesso: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gesso

[@Joe-mz6dc]

Your voice is precious. And thanks for the information.

[@umanarayanan8502]

Thank you for the detailed explanation it's really helpful🙂

[@AlyssaMees]

Thank you! I'm so happy it was helpful :)

[@CarlWinter-oy8uf]

So if you live in the bush --and don't have access to fancy gesso etc --what do you suggest for DIY HOME WOOD PRIMER?

[@RuvikWithers]

Thank you for the video

[@DON-qx2ik]

Abosolutely a fantastic video. Right speed, easy to follow directions, step by step teaching with explanation of each step and reason. A "must-see" for every beginning crafter using paint on wood for any project. Thank you for posting. (you can save a few pennies elsewhere (other than hobby stores) but you lack the personal information, suggestions, and brain power of Hobby store personnel). But saving a few pennies eslewhere is also something to take seriously. What grade of sand paper was used?

[@DanaCecile]

This has been super helpful! I was wondering if you do anything specific to seal the pieces after I finish? Thank you!

[@iamveno]

I am excited to start my channel and sharing my content. Thanks for the motivation over the years. Subscribe and thanks for your support.

[@ShawnQuiQui57]

This was very helpful and concise. Thank you

[@dinaelsherbiny1727]

Should I apply gesso on preprimed wood panel like artist’s loft panels ? Thank you for your video really helpful

[@americaneasel8780]

FANTASTIC information!

[@appleknocker56]

I so wish I had known about this gesso before I did this wooden box & didn’t know anything about painting “metallic” paint but did it & it took 6 coats of paint! Now all I have left to do are already (black printed flowers & leaves) on the top to finish just the painting process! Should I try to put clear gesso over that part even if a little bit of the gesso touches the metallic paint (will it make it move or go away)? Then what do I use to seal it all so it will stay pretty? Wish I knew how to show you an image of the box & ty for the tips of getting all those lil wood dust out as fought those pieces too 😳 but learned a lot!! If I go over printed black lines w sandpaper wouldn’t it remove some of the black??

[@taylormor]

Hoping to experiment would painting on wood for my advanced Drawing class this semester! these tips are great!

[@misshellsing]

Loved this tutorial and info! Thank you so much! I also read your update, sorry people are jerks. You are awesome, your art it beautiful and your video is super helpful! So thank you again!^_^

[@bagobeans]

Just put a tiny pencil check on the back of the wood panel treated with gesso. That way you don't have to scratch it. So simple!!

[@sabaraza2530]

Great tips!! Thanks If I want to paint only a motif in the centre do I only prime the centre and stain the rest of the wood? Does stain work on gesso?

[@escapismm7]

I find your video very helpful! What do you think if i skip any prep if i wanna do acrylic pouring on wood panel? It will be already very think painting that ill be pouring on, so it wouldn't matter much, woundt it?? Look forward to your answer. Thanks :)

[@influentialolive]

I pour on wood panels. I use tge Exact same steps as I would on stretched canvas, BUT, have far Happier results. I don't see myself using stretched canvas in the future..

[@taniaclass4805]

Hi, thanks for sharing. Off topic if you did the skate blank and it had a finish on it could you spray paint then resin or paint without having to sand it?Thanks.

[@kashkashikas]

do you paint with acrylic on this? also what do you use as a top coat after the painting is finished?

[@AlyssaMees]

I do! I use acrylics and then once they're all dry I spray on Golden brand archival spray varnish. You can use brush on varnish too, but I like the even and smooth finish the spray gives.

[@ravenken]

Thanks for the video and the update. You Rock!

[@cynthiawilson0416]

Thank you for the video! Dumb question but why are so many layers needed?

[@FatimabArt]

Omg this was soo good!! And I'm happy that your KZbin followers can now hear what you sound like. I can't wait until your next video ^ω^

[@OyaRevolutionary]

Well done & thanks for the update.

[@maryjazzini3642]

Could I put a few gesso layers over laminated side panel for preparation before applying acrylic artwork

[@ScreamingGiant]

Just subscribed!! Thank you so much for being awesome and for putting out such a helpful tutorial!! You're an inspiration!

[@AlyssaMees]

Thank you for subscribing! I'm happy to hear you enjoy my videos :)

[@VINTERIUM..EXPLORIUM.1]

This is ART !!!

[@veronicabool2350]

Yooo your art is amazing wthhhh

[@shfirafr]

Hello, may I ask something? Is there another alternative instead of gesso to prep my wood? I live in a small city and I don't think such thing as gesso exists in my local shops. Thanks in advance! :D

[@GalleryBry]

Great tips!! Thanks for posting this!!

[@sharonzysun]

Why do you apply so many layers of gesso?

[@AlyssaMees]

Liquitex gesso instructions say to apply 2-4 layers, I apply 4-6 because I feel like I get a smoother base to work with.

[@moonlitproductions7182]

Can anything be a substitute for gesso?

[@JaneBeata]

This is very helpful, many thanks for making the video :)

[@cysmarts7803]

What do you put on the back for selling?

[@ti8607]

Hi Alyssa! Could you do a video on how you set up your camera for your speed paintings/video?

[@ji7iij]

That is really great!

[@hassiebetz2361]

This was very helpful to me. Thank you very much.

[@elizabethverdun4439]

Thank you for this video!

[@kathleenstrode8445]

Thank you this was helpful

[@AlyssaMees]

I'm so glad!

[@misakizone9803]

Thank you for sharing your technique 😊

[@AlyssaMees]

Ah! Thank you for watching :)

[@Carlsyolo4234232]

Thanks for your video Alyssa Mees! I was just wondering- the clear gesso works for watercolor as well, right?? I'm doing a little watercolor painting on a wood slice, and I wanted to make sure that it works with that so that it won't absorb all the paint. Thanks!

[@cluckcluckgoose9243]

if using clear gesso and acrylic paints, can you apply clear gesso over individual layers of your painting for added permanence and sealing?

[@AlyssaMees]

Hi! Hmm I've never tried that... I think I recall reading that clear gesso can get a bit cloudy with added layers or overworking, so I'm not sure if I'd recommend that. But perhaps it is worth a small experiment on your side? I have seen artists do really cool layering techniques with lacquer, so maybe that is something you can try, too? Off the top of my head, the artist Mall Licudine (Shardula on IG) is a wonderful example of this :) As far as permanence, I've found that painting my painting and then sealing it with Golden Archival spray varnish is enough to protect it. I've gotten to visit some of my older pieces and they still looked brand new. It also helps when the paint you're using is lightfast and permanent, and that the painting is kept out of direct sunlight. Hope this answer helps!

[@Deinax_art99]

OMG you are the best !!!! Thank you

[@LateSorrowOFFICIAL]

Can i use mod podge instead of gesso and all that?

[@thesmilingone888]

Really well explained, thank you

[@andiemarron3838]

thank you so much for this! i can't wait to try it myself. so you have any image transfer tips?

[@AlyssaMees]

Hi! Hmm lately I'm been scanning the sketch, resizing it and printing it out. Then I'll coat the back of the print out with chalky pastels. I tape it to wood, chalk side down, and trace the sketch with a pen or pencil. I'll lift the paper up throughout the process to make sure the chalk is transferring. Once I'm done with tracing, I'll remove the sketch and then fill out any spots I missed, or trace over the chalk with some graphite. Once I like the new wood sketch, I'll set it with workable fixatif, and that will help reduce smudging while you paint :) I hope this answer helped and made sense!

[@andiemarron3838]

Alyssa Mees yes it does! thank you ♡

[@mauricemcloughlin8261]

Thank you, thank you, thank you

[@varshakaul2358]

To paint on wood blocks with acrylics...is it okay to start painting without any coating?after the painting is finished varnish or some other coating is required to preserve the artwork? Thanks ✨

[@AlyssaMees]

Hello! If you paint on bare wood, it may likely sink in and bleed out. The colors may also show a bit duller too. As for finishing, a varnish can help protect your colors from fading over time. I currently use Golden gloss archival varnish and it works well for me.

[@mitzimiranda9592]

Thank you my lovely. Great video xx

[@nehaloza2611]

How do protect the watercolor from water? After the painting is done

[@perlajurado8953]

Why didn't I find your channel sooner

[@ivoneeg8799]

This was so helpful!! Thank you!

[@felineaddict]

Another good tip for sealing wood for painting is to use All - purpose sealer from Decoart or other paint company. Found with craft paint section. It's cheaper than clear gesso and one layer is good enough. Two layers more than good. Also you can mix it with your background color of you wish. Happy painting!

[@RobertPaterson333]

Really useful video, thank you!

[@Vanspeaks]

Can i use one of the acrylic medium instead of a gesso? 🙂

[@rezinasiraj]

Thanks for the useful information

[@wonders271]

Thank you so much 💖💖💖💖

[@hakeber1978]

Can you use resin instead of gesso? Have you done that? Or considered coating with a resin after painting?

[@ramongalvez3053]

Ty alyssa!

[@wyrdicwitch2809]

This might be a silly question but can you use Mod Podge for priming the wood instead?

[@AlyssaMees]

No silly questions here! Hmm I actually have no idea though, I'm sorry >_< I dont have experience with mod podge, I've only seen it being used in craft videos. A quick search brings up mostly sealing wood for crafts, but I'm not seeing a lot of art related projects. If you're looking to make fine art that'll last, I'd recommend using specific products made for priming :)

[@mitzimiranda9592]

What liner brushes do you used Alyssa?...your technique is really good xx

[@AlyssaMees]

Hi Miriam! I just bought a Trekell liner and really like it. I also enjoy Princeton Select brushes :)

[@tanushrivastava5183]

Nice description .. thank you 😊

[@madmandu]

Thank you so much for this video!!

[@audrey9708]

Did you also prep the skateboard deck in the video from 4 years ago in a similar way? I really wanna paint a deck for a friend :0

[@AlyssaMees]

I did! Skate decks are a little tricky though. Blanks usually still come with a fairly thick clear varnish. I've found that paint just does not stick with that varnish so you gotta sand it all off. If you have a power sander that would be great, or else get ready to put in some elbow grease :D

[@xmikala]

For priming your wood panels, is there a certain time limit until you can't use it anymore or are you able to prime as many wood panels as you'd like?

[@AlyssaMees]

Hi! As in if the primed panels expire? Hmm not that I know of. I tend to paint primed panels within a couple months and havent noticed any issues. I would recommend keeping them in a sealed plastic bin so they dont get dirt or water on them.

[@rickyfargason8859]

I recommend sealing the wood with GAC 100 or Kilz before applying the gesso. This will create a barrier between the wood and the gesso surface which will absorb the paint esp oil paints which over the years could come into contact with the wood. With this sealed layer your artwork will be protected and be archival for many years. Be sure to seal all 6 sides of the wood panel top, back, and edges, with at least 2 coats, then apply your gesso.

[@joseph2832]

"It should also be noted that Gloss Medium and GAC 100 do not seal wood, they really just serve to block SID."

[@TwinBleaks]

@@joseph2832 Sorry, what's SID?

[@joseph2832]

@@TwinBleaks "Support Induced Discoloration or SID describes a phenomenon that can occur when the acrylic appears to change in color upon drying."

[@dirtfan4754]

Is clear gesso thinner then white gesso?

[@AlyssaMees]

Hi! Hmm not that I know of, I’ve only used clear and not white so I wouldn’t be able to say for sure. Sometimes I add a little bit of water to thin it out because I find it’s easier to work with and I can add more layers. I’ve read it can result in a smoother surface, but it’s mostly a personal preference thing for me.

[@tpakzone]

Is it okay to use oil paint over gesso?

[@AlyssaMees]

Yes! I've oil painted on panels prepped just like this video and it worked out great:)

[@pineapple676]

are we able to draw with a pencil on the gesso??

[@AlyssaMees]

You can! I would recommend sanding the gesso so it's smoother before you begin drawing. Gesso dries into a gritty texture and could alter how smooth your graphite lines are (image if you tried to draw on sandpaper, that's kind of how it would feel.) To prevent smudging, you can spray with a fixative.

[@pineapple676]

@@AlyssaMees Alrighty, thank you so much!

[@appleluong3799]

So i stained a piece of wood, let it dry, and applied clear gesso so i can paint some calligraphy onto it without losing the natural wood grain. But now the dark stain has a cloudy film. Why isnt it drying clear?

[@AlyssaMees]

Hi Apple! Hmm it may be for two reasons according to Liquitex website www.liquitex.com/row/products/professional/gessoes-mediums-varnishes/clear-gesso/ One being overworking the gesso by brushing over it too many times while it’s drying. The other reason may be too thick of a layer. I’m not sure on an exact fix, but what I would personally do is sand it all down and start again. Hope that helps a bit and that your calligraphy project comes along the way you want 😊

[@dylanlentz5623]

Can u use midge podge for a substitute for gesso

[@charlieclarkart]

Super kewl, Thank you!

[@jacprice1687]

LOVE it....legend. thanks

[@devilOeyes]

Does it matter if I use clear or white gesso?

[@serenap2154]

Why do you apply so many layers of gesso? Thanks!

[@Uttamangisubhadradd]

Thank you🙏

[@coffeebreakerz1266]

what kind of prime are you using?

[@maryjazzini3642]

Can paint on a laminated side of a board panel?

[@kiahjean9774]

Great

[@graceyang688]

Does it matter if the gesso is clear?

[@AlyssaMees]

Only if you want the wood grain pattern to show through :) If you dont care about the grain, or perhaps it has flaws, you can certainly use white or black gesso.

[@judyheim3949]

It’s gritty because you are using clear gesso. The white gesso is less gritty than clear. I’m not sure about the grittiness level of the black gesso as I e only used it once and didn’t pay attention to that.

[@taherajerin9268]

Can anyone educated me whai is gesso?

[@tomlergius8889]

Can l use Oli painting ?

[@AlyssaMees]

Yes! I use this method for my oil paintings too and have had good results😊

[@tomlergius8889]

@@AlyssaMees Thank you

[@kevinbergin9971]

Do you use PVA glue?

[@ailinsada]

Thank you

[@braudii2806]

Does the wood have to be that thick?

[@AlyssaMees]

Hi! It does not! I've done this prep for much thinner panels, maybe around .25" in thickness.

[@braudii2806]

@@AlyssaMees Thank you so much for your fast reply.