Guides
What is the difference between stretched and unstretched canvas?
Stretched canvas, securely mounted over a wooden frame, offers a flat, taut surface ideal for painting. This prevents the canvas from wrinkling or distorting under brushstrokes. Conversely, painting on unstretched...
How to make cotton canvas smoother
All canvas needs to be primed before you start painting, to ensure the paint isn’t absorbed into the surface. The more layers of primer (often referred to as gesso) that...
Can I draw on canvas? What’s the best way to do it?
Many artists find it helpful to sketch an outline of their planned composition on canvas before starting a painting. You can use pencil, charcoal or transfer paper, and do this...
Can I use watercolour on canvas?
Canvas that’s been primed for oil or acrylic paint isn’t suitable for watercolour because the surface isn’t absorbent. However, you can buy special watercolour canvases that have been prepared so that they...
Understanding canvas options: Boards, Rolls, Sheets, and Papers
Explore different canvas options: canvas boards for portability and durability, canvas rolls for custom-sized canvases, canvas sheets as pre-cut alternatives, and canvas paper with a textured surface suitable for oil and...
What is the difference between cotton and linen canvases?
Explore the definitive guide to choosing between cotton and linen canvases for your artwork. Learn about their textures, durability, ease of use, cost considerations, and environmental impact to make informed...
How to fit canvas wedges
Discover how to maintain canvas tension using wedges. We detail the process of inserting wedges into corners to restore or adjust canvas tension for optimal painting conditions.
Understanding the lightfastness, permanence and archival quality of inks
Discover Winsor & Newton's Drawing and Calligraphy Inks. Learn about the differences in permanence, brightness, and application techniques, ensuring your artistic creations stand the test of time.
How to understand pencil grades
Discover the essential beginners guide to pencil grades, from 8B to 4H. Learn how each grade influences shading, detail, and writing, helping you select the perfect pencil for your artistic...
How are pencils made?
All wood-encased pencils are made from three major ingredients: graphite, clay and a small amount of binder. Back in the 17th century these were ground down by hand, put in a cylindrical...
How to use watercolour pencils?
Watercolour pencils can be used in three ways: as a coloured pencil, to create drawings that can be transformed later with water, or the tip can be dipped in water before...