Canvas explained: cotton, priming and what makes a good surface

What we paint on

We paint on cotton canvas, primed before painting. Cotton has a smooth, even weave that takes fine detail well and stretches evenly over a frame.

Cotton and linen

Linen is the traditional alternative. It has a more pronounced texture and is very stable, but costs considerably more. For most commercial and decorative work, a good primed cotton canvas performs very well.

Why priming matters

Raw canvas absorbs paint unevenly and can let moisture through to the fibers. Priming seals the weave and gives the paint a consistent surface to grip. A well-primed canvas usually has two or three coats.

How to judge canvas quality

• Look at the back. A good canvas is evenly woven with no thin patches.
• Check the sides. The priming should be even, with no bare fibers showing.
• Feel the tension on a stretched canvas. It should be taut and even, with no ripples in the corners.

Poor canvas shows itself over time: it sags, lets the ground show through, wrinkles or cracks.