Make Traditional Gesso Using Acrylic Glue

This gesso can be sanded to an ivory smooth finish, and offers an absorbent surface much more agreeable than acrylic polymer primers. By using an acrylic polymer glue instead of traditional rabbit-skin glue, the gesso can be applied at room temperature. It can also be stored for later use.

Steps

  1. Combine 2 parts PVA glue, 4 parts water, 8 parts calcium carbonate (marble dust), and 1 part titanium or zinc white pigment, by volume.
  2. Stir gently and let stand to allow the pigment to dissolve and the air bubbles to dissipate.
  3. Know that before applying to panels, give the mixture another good stir.
  4. Finished.

Tips

  • Add an additional 1-2 parts, by volume, of calcium carbonate for heavier gesso (gesso grosso) to be used for covering rough surfaces
  • Dilute with 1 part water, by volume, for a thinner gesso (gesso sottile)to be used for the final coats.

Warnings

  • Do not breathe the dust.
  • It is very dangerous and may harm you.

Things You'll Need

  • Archival PVA glue such as Lineco Inc. Neutral pH Adhesive
  • Finely powdered calcium carbonate or marble dust, available from Fredrix or Sinopia
  • Water
  • Titanium white or Zinc white pigment
  • A large container and stick for mixing

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