Acrylic gesso is a modern type of gesso that uses an acrylic polymer as its binding agent. Unlike true gesso, which is traditionally made from rabbit-skin glue and chalk, acrylic gesso is flexible, fast-drying, and suitable for use on a wide variety of surfaces. It has become the industry standard for preparing canvases, panels, and even unconventional surfaces for painting.

Composition

Acrylic polymer emulsion: The flexible binder that holds the gesso together.
Calcium carbonate (chalk): Provides absorbency and tooth.
White pigment (often titanium dioxide): Gives the gesso its bright, opaque base.
Additives: May include preservatives, dispersants, or matting agents for consistency and durability.

Applications in Framing and Art

Surface preparation: Creates a smooth yet absorbent surface for oil, acrylic, or mixed-media painting.
Versatility: Can be applied to canvas, wood panels, paper, or even unusual surfaces like metal or plastic when used with a proper primer.
Flexible base: Its elasticity makes it ideal for stretched canvas, as it resists cracking.

Advantages

Non-toxic and water-based, making it easy to clean up.
Dries quickly, allowing multiple coats in a short period.
Remains flexible, reducing the risk of cracking or flaking.
Available in various shades, including white, black, and tinted forms.

Considerations

Acrylic gesso is less absorbent than true gesso, which some traditional oil painters prefer.
Oil paint applied over acrylic gesso may not adhere as well as over an oil primer, though it is still widely accepted for both acrylic and oil painting.
Multiple coats may be required to achieve a completely smooth and opaque surface.

Framing Industry Context

In the picture framing industry, acrylic gesso is primarily relevant to artists and conservators who prepare their own canvases or panels before artworks enter the framing process. Its widespread use ensures that framed paintings are more durable and less prone to cracking compared to those primed with brittle traditional gesso. Framers may also encounter the term when advising customers on the longevity and stability of their artwork surfaces.

Acrylic Gesso