An easy way to make genuine glue grounds, also known as ‘traditional gesso.’ This is not an acrylic “gesso.” It’s the real thing: hide glue and whiting (calcium carbonate). But we’ve made it easy to prepare: Mix equal amounts of warm water and Easy Gesso, wait a few hours for it to gel, and then warm it until it is liquid enough to apply with a brush. It can also be applied cold as a soft gelatinous mass similar in consistency to tofu. The difference between real gesso and acrylic “gesso” or primers is a silky soft surface that is absorbent to water-based paints.

Easy Gesso Extra-Fine is a new formulation of our original Easy Gesso with extra-fine natural ground chalk and titanium dioxide. It is prepared in the same way as Easy Gesso for a ground with a little less tooth. It contains finely ground calcite (calcium carbonate), titanium dioxide, and rabbit skin glue.

Easy Gesso Extra-Fine is best used on rigid supports, like wood panels. It is not recommended for use on flexible supports, such as stretched canvas. However, you can apply it to a canvas mounted on a rigid support.

1. Mix equal parts by volume of dry Easy Gesso Extra-Fine into a container with warm water.

2. Stir and allow to stand for at least two hours. It will gel.

3. Place the container in a pot full of hot tap water—no hotter than 65° C (150° F). The gel will liquefy. Be sure that all glue flakes are completely dissolved.

4. Apply the liquid gesso with a broad brush. Allow each coat to dry.

5. Apply at least four coats to produce the best surface for painting. Sand the final coat, if desired, for a smoother surface.