Are you supposed to paint the sides of a canvas? That’s a question that has been troubling many artists for decades. Some argue that the sides of the canvas shouldn’t be painted, while others believe that it’s a crucial part of the artwork. So, what’s the answer? Well, the truth is, it depends on who you ask. There is no right or wrong answer to this question, as it ultimately comes down to personal preference and artistic vision.
As an artist, the sides of a canvas can often be overlooked when creating a piece of art. Many artists are solely focused on the main image, and neglect the sides of the canvas. However, others argue that the sides of the canvas can play a significant role in the overall presentation of the artwork. Some choose to paint the sides of the canvas to match the colors and textures of the main image, creating a cohesive piece of art. Others prefer to leave the sides of the canvas untouched, allowing the viewer to see the raw edges and brushstrokes of the painting. The decision to paint or not to paint the sides of a canvas is entirely up to the artist, and can ultimately define their unique style and approach to art.
The Importance of Gesso for Preparing Canvases
As a painter, you may have heard of the term gesso, but what exactly is it? Gesso is a primer that is applied to a canvas to create a base layer for paint. It is typically composed of a combination of binder, chalk, and pigment. The importance of gesso for preparing canvases cannot be overstated. Here are a few reasons why:
- Gesso Makes Canvas More Durable: Applying gesso to a canvas increases its durability and longevity. Without gesso, the paint can easily wear and crack over time due to the canvas fibers absorbing moisture.
- Gesso Evens Out the Surface: Gesso creates a uniform surface on the canvas, ensuring that the paint is evenly distributed and not absorbed more in some areas than others. This is crucial for achieving a smooth, even finish.
- Gesso Improves Paint Adhesion: Gesso provides a surface for the paint to adhere to, making it less likely to peel or crack. It creates a toothy surface that allows the paint to grip the canvas, providing a solid foundation for the artwork.
When purchasing gesso, make sure to choose a quality product that is suited to your desired painting style. There are different types of gesso available based on the type of canvas you’re using and the type of paint medium you’re working with. Some popular types of gesso include acrylic gesso, oil gesso, and clear gesso.
Techniques for Priming Canvas Sides
The question of whether or not to paint the sides of a canvas often arises among artists. While some prefer to leave these edges unpainted to convey a raw, unfinished look, others argue that priming the sides makes the artwork look more polished and complete. Here are some techniques for priming canvas sides:
- Acrylic Gesso: This is a common technique used to prime canvas sides before painting. Acrylic gesso is a versatile primer that can be applied directly to the canvas, or mixed with water to create a smooth, even surface. It dries quickly, allowing artists to start painting sooner than with oil primers.
- Oil Primer: For a more traditional look, some artists prefer to use oil primer to prime canvas sides. Oil primer may take longer to dry than acrylic gesso, but it creates a rich, textured surface that can add depth and dimension to the artwork.
- Stain: Another option for priming canvas sides is to use a stain. This technique allows the natural texture of the canvas to show through, while creating a subtle, tinted finish. Stains can be mixed with water or applied directly to the canvas, depending on the desired effect.
Ultimately, the decision to paint the sides of a canvas comes down to personal preference and the desired aesthetic of the artwork. Whether you choose to prime the sides with acrylic gesso, oil primer, or a stain, make sure to apply the primer evenly and allow it to dry completely before starting to paint.
Pros and Cons of Painting Canvas Sides
When it comes to painting canvas sides, there are various things you need to consider. While some artists prefer to leave the sides unpainted, others believe that painting the sides can add more depth and character to the artwork. Here are some pros and cons of painting canvas sides that every artist should know:
- Pros:
- 1. Adds depth and dimension: Painting the canvas sides can add more depth and dimension to the artwork, making it look more interesting and eye-catching.
- 2. Protects the canvas: By painting the sides, you can protect the canvas from damage by preventing it from getting scratched or damaged by dust or other factors.
- 3. Completes the artwork: Painting the canvas sides can give your artwork a finished look, making it look more professional and polished.
- Cons:
- 1. Time-consuming: Painting the canvas sides can take more time and effort, especially if you need to wait for the paint to dry before continuing with your artwork.
- 2. Adds cost: If you decide to paint the sides of your canvas, you will need to buy additional paint, which can add to the overall cost of your artwork.
- 3. May not always be necessary: Depending on the style and purpose of your artwork, painting the sides may not always be necessary and could potentially distract from the main focus of your piece.
Ultimately, whether or not to paint the sides of a canvas comes down to personal preference and the needs of the artwork. While there are several pros and cons to consider, what’s most important is choosing a technique that complements and enhances your artistic vision.
It’s also worth noting that some artists prefer to leave the sides of their canvas unpainted to give the artwork a more raw and organic look. Others may choose to paint only certain sections of the sides, using it as a strategic design element rather than painting the entire surface.
In Conclusion
Whether you choose to paint the sides of your canvas or not, it’s important to keep in mind the pros and cons to make an informed decision that supports your artistic vision. By weighing the benefits and drawbacks, you’ll be more equipped to create an artwork that shines and represents your unique style and approach.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adds depth and dimension | Time-consuming |
| Protects the canvas | Adds cost |
| Completes the artwork | May not always be necessary |
By considering the pros and cons, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about whether or not to paint the sides of your canvas. Ultimately, what’s most important is creating an artwork that truly represents your unique vision and style.
Tips for Choosing the Right Paint for Canvas Sides
When it comes to painting the sides of a canvas, many artists are unsure what type of paint to use or how to properly apply it. Here are some helpful tips for choosing the right paint for canvas sides:
- Acrylic paint is an ideal choice for canvas sides as it dries quickly and is water-resistant, making it a good option for long-lasting results.
- Oil paint can also be used, but keep in mind that it takes longer to dry and may smudge or smear.
- If you want to match the color on the front of the canvas, use the same brand and color of paint for the sides.
Applying paint to the canvas sides can be tricky, as it requires a steady hand and some patience. Here are some additional tips and tricks for painting canvas sides:
- Before you begin, make sure the sides of the canvas are clean and free of dust or debris.
- Use a small brush to carefully apply the paint, taking your time to avoid any drips or smudges.
- If you make a mistake, you can use a damp cloth to carefully wipe away any excess paint before it dries.
For those looking for more in-depth guidance on painting canvas sides, here is a simple table outlining some factors to consider:
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Type of paint | Acrylic dries more quickly and is water-resistant, while oil takes longer to dry and may smudge. |
| Color | Match the color on the front of the canvas by using the same brand and color of paint for the sides. |
| Application | Use a small brush and take your time to avoid any drips or smudges. |
| Clean up | If you make a mistake, use a damp cloth to carefully wipe away any excess paint before it dries. |
By following these tips, you can ensure that your canvas sides look just as professional and polished as the front of your artwork.
How to Get a Clean Edge When Painting Canvas Sides
When painting on canvas, it is important to give attention to the edges. While some artists prefer to leave the sides of a canvas unpainted, others choose to continue their painting over the edges for a more complete and professional look. If you choose to paint the edges of your canvas, here are some tips for achieving a clean and polished finish:
- Clean and Sand the Edges: Before painting the sides of the canvas, make sure to clean and sand them. Use a soft cloth to remove any dust or debris, and then use a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots or jagged edges.
- Apply Masking Tape: To avoid getting paint on the front of the canvas, apply masking tape along the edge where the paint meets the front of the canvas. This will create a crisp line and protect the front of your artwork.
- Use a Steady Hand: When applying the paint to the edges, use a small brush and a steady hand. Take your time and work slowly to ensure that the paint does not bleed onto the front of the canvas or the masking tape.
Once you have painted the edges, allow the paint to dry completely before removing the masking tape. If any paint has bled onto the front of the canvas or the tape, use a small, clean brush to touch up the areas. With a little attention to detail, you can achieve a clean and professional finish to your canvas paintings.
If you require a more sophisticated look, you can do edge work using a frame. Painting canvas which already mounted on a frame will give a clean edge, despite the masking, especially on thicker wraps. In situations where frames are not appropriate, you can use a putty or filler to smooth the edge. It is also possible to buy pre-primed stretched canvases where the sides have been primed, facilitating the painting of the side.
| Pros of Painting Canvas Sides | Cons of Painting Canvas Sides |
| • A finished look to artwork • Can add an artistic element to the piece |
• If not done well can appear sloppy • Artwork may look less traditional |
Ultimately, the decision to paint the sides of a canvas is up to the individual artist and the desired finished look of the artwork. By following these tips, you can achieve a clean and polished edge to your canvas paintings.
Using Painted Canvas Sides as Additional Gallery Wrapping
When you create an artwork on a stretched canvas, one of the decisions you’ll have to make is whether or not to paint the sides of the canvas. By leaving the sides unpainted, you may give your painting a more raw, unfinished look. However, painting the sides of the canvas can offer both functional and aesthetic benefits. In this article, we’ll explore some of the reasons why painters may choose to paint the sides of their canvases.
- Cohesive Gallery Presentation: By painting the sides of the canvas, the artwork will appear more complete and polished when hanging on the wall. This is especially true if you plan to exhibit your work in a gallery or art show. A painted canvas side can help tie together a series of paintings with a cohesive and professional look.
- Protection Against Aging: Unpainted canvas edges can be vulnerable over time, and may start to fray or get discolored. Painting the sides of the canvas can offer protection against this type of aging, and may help your artwork maintain its quality and appearance over the years.
- Flexibility for Display: If you paint the sides of your canvas, you also have the option to display your artwork without a frame. Instead of hanging the piece on the wall behind glass, you could simply hang the painting directly on the wall, showing off the painted canvas edges as a finished part of the overall presentation.
Painting the sides of the canvas can also be an opportunity to extend the creative concept of your artwork. For example, you could use the sides to continue the imagery or color scheme started on the front, or to create an entirely new design element.
If you do choose to paint the sides of your canvas, it’s important to keep in mind that it will slightly alter the dimensions of the piece. Make sure to measure and account for the painted sides when considering framing and display options.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers cohesive gallery presentation | Alters dimensions of artwork |
| Protects against aging | May require additional time and effort |
| Provides flexibility for display | May alter the overall aesthetic of the piece |
In conclusion, painting the sides of your canvas can add a finishing touch to your artwork and lend it a professional look. Whether you’re exhibiting your work in a gallery or simply displaying it in your home, carefully considering the benefits and drawbacks of painting the sides of your canvas can help you make the best decision for your artistic vision and long-term preservation of the piece.
Best Practices for Storing, Transporting, and Displaying Painted Canvas Artworks.
When it comes to maintaining the quality and longevity of your painted canvas artworks, proper storage, transportation, and display are essential. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
- Store the canvas artworks vertically rather than horizontally. If you must store them horizontally, make sure they are elevated off the ground, and not stacked too many high.
- Avoid storing them in damp or humid areas, as this can lead to mold growth and warping of the canvas. Instead, store them in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area.
- Keep them away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, as these can cause fading and cracking.
Transporting painted canvas artworks can be tricky. Follow these practices to ensure they arrive in good condition:
- Wrap the artwork with bubble wrap or foam to protect the canvas. Use cardboard or a wooden board to reinforce the package and prevent bending or creasing.
- If you are transporting multiple artworks, make sure to separate them with cardboard or foam padding to prevent them from rubbing against each other.
- Avoid laying them flat in the trunk or backseat of a car, as this can cause damage. Instead, transport them vertically or at an angle.
When it comes to displaying your painted canvas artworks, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose a location that is not prone to moisture, extreme temperature changes, or direct sunlight.
- Hang them with proper hanging hardware to ensure they stay secure on the wall and do not damage the artwork.
- Avoid hanging them near air vents or fans that could cause them to move around too much, potentially leading to damage.
To further protect your artwork, consider framing it with a high-quality frame and UV-protective glass or acrylic. This will not only enhance the presentation of the piece, but also provide extra protection.
| Storage | Transportation | Display |
|---|---|---|
| Store vertically or elevated off the ground | Wrap with bubble wrap or foam; use cardboard or wooden board for reinforcement | Choose a location not prone to moisture, extreme temperatures, or direct sunlight |
| Avoid damp or humid areas | Separate multiple artworks with cardboard or foam padding | Hang with proper hardware to prevent damage |
| Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures | Transport vertically or at an angle | Avoid hanging near air vents or fans |
Are You Supposed to Paint the Sides of a Canvas: FAQs
Q1: Should I bother painting the sides of my canvas?
A: It depends on your preference. If you plan on framing your artwork, then it may not be necessary. However, if you want to leave the canvas unframed and want a finished look, then it’s a good idea to paint the sides.
Q2: Do I need to use the same paint for the sides as I do on the front?
A: No, not necessarily. You can use a different color or medium if you want. Just make sure that the paint or medium you use is compatible with the canvas material.
Q3: Should I paint the sides before or after I paint the front?
A: It’s usually better to paint the sides after you finish the front. That way, you can avoid accidentally getting paint on the sides while working on the front of the canvas.
Q4: What’s the best way to paint the sides of a canvas?
A: You can use a small brush or roller to paint the sides of a canvas. Just make sure to use light strokes and avoid applying too much paint at once.
Q5: Can I leave the sides of the canvas unfinished?
A: Yes, you can leave the sides of the canvas unfinished if you prefer a raw or rustic look. Some artists even prefer to showcase the texture and material of the canvas.
Q6: How do I protect the sides of my canvas from damage?
A: If you want to protect the sides of your canvas from damage, you can apply a clear varnish or sealer to the surface. This will help preserve the paint and prevent scratches or other wear and tear.
Q7: Should I sign my name on the sides of my canvas?
A: It’s up to you! Some artists like to sign their name on the sides of their canvas to make it easier to identify, while others prefer to keep their signature hidden on the back.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope this FAQ helped answer your questions about painting the sides of a canvas. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to do it – it’s all about your personal style and preference. Don’t forget to visit again later for more tips and tricks on creating beautiful art!