Q: I am uncertain about which Masonite substrates are
appropriate as a canvas for oil or acrylic paints. Some people advice
against using tempered Masonite, Home-supply stores seem to only sell
Masonite pegboards, and there appears to be no other manufacturers of
hardboard. Is medium-density fiberboard (MDF) an acceptable
alternative?
A: The type of Masonite sold in home-supply stores is not
archival, so oil paint will soak into it, compromising the board’s
properties, and oils from the Masonite will migrate onto the painting
surface, further complicating the situation and perhaps harming your
painting. Your best bet is to purchase your Masonite boards in an art
store. These boards are specifically made to accept primers and gesso
for oil and acrylic paints. Ampersand makes a hardboard that is
stronger than Masonite, without acids or chemicals that can discolor
paints. They are made from aspen wood with uniform fibers and neutral
pH. This company also makes boards with framed sides for easy hanging.
You can find these at Blick Art Materials and most other art stores.
To prepare a Masonite support, you will need gesso and a large, soft
bristle brush. Apply overlapping brushstrokes in one direction for the
first coat. After it has thoroughly dried, turn your board 90 degrees
and paint another coat of overlapping brushstrokes against the first
grain. Next, gently sand the surface with a high-grit sandpaper in a
circular motion. At this point you can begin your artwork in oil, or
add another layer of gesso and repeat the sanding before starting to
paint.
--by Camille LaPointe-Lyons
Q: Should I use 1/4” or 1/8” Masonite for my oil paintings?
A: Most painters use 1/8” with no ill effects. Using this
thinner Masonite lessens the weight of the painting--Masonite is, of
course, much heavier than canvas. For pieces more than 40 inches wide
or tall, reinforce the Masonite on the back with 1 ½” wooden strips.