Q: I am a self-taught oil painter with a very smooth
technique. Will you explain to me the variety of archival-quality
surfaces suitable for oil paintings done in a smooth style?
A: You would probably enjoy working on a primed
Masonite board. Better art supply stores carry archival-quality primed
boards. If you choose to prime a board yourself, however, use Lascaux
Gesso, which is very thick. You may want to lightly sand two layers to
achieve the appropriate smoothness.
If you prefer stretched canvas, find a linen canvas primed for
portraits. These canvases are more expensive, but are designed for
professional painters.
--by Camille LaPointe-Lyons