What is gesso used for?

Gesso is a traditional white ground made of a mixture of glue, chalk, and white pigment, typically used to prepare a surface for painting. It is applied to a canvas or wood panel before painting to create a smooth, opaque, and absorbent surface that helps the paint adhere better and prevents it from seeping into the support material.

Gesso can be applied with a brush or a palette knife in several layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. Once dry, gesso can be sanded to create an even smoother surface for painting. It can also be tinted with acrylic paint or other pigments to create colored grounds for painting.

In addition to preparing surfaces for painting, gesso can also be used for other purposes such as creating texture or building up layers on a canvas. It is a versatile medium that is commonly used by artists in various painting techniques and styles.