I had to take a journey this morning I didn’t plan on. I went to start a canvas, as usual. I went to coat it in gesso, as usual. And my awesome tub of Bob Ross Gesso had turned into weird, gelatinous marshmallows. I actually did try to use and it basically smeared marshmallow-like lumps on my canvas. I like a little texture but this is ridiculous. So, I want to paint on this canvas before the idea and inspiration is gone. I looked to the Internet and found several ways to make it.
My first attempt using glue and baby powder as in another online gesso recipe was a total fail. The baby powder is way too assertive texture-wise.
This is my favorite from Instructables. you will find full instructions there – they seem to have updated the link and I can’t find a new one for it – here are the ingredients you’re gonna need:
- 1 part white glue (if you don’t have any on hand you can use this awesome tutorial: http://sustainableecho.com/homemade-natural-glue/)
- 2-3 parts water
- 3 parts cornstarch
- 3 parts baking soda
- A bit of acrylic paint (Optional – will change the color of your gesso, or add white if you want it brighter/better coverage)
You can use this recipe for any amount of gesso you need, just change the measurement for the parts. For example, if you need a ton of gesso, use 1 cup white glue, 2-3 cups water, etc. For a small amount, use teaspoons or tablespoons.
How cool is that? I am here to say this makes a nice, smooth gesso and the nice thing is I can just make what I need for the week and keep it in a large, glass jar.
