Have you ever wondered what materials professional artists prefer to use for their masterpieces? When it comes to choosing a surface to paint on, artists have a plethora of options to consider. From traditional canvases to unconventional surfaces, the choices are endless. In this article, we will explore the common materials that most professional artists choose to paint on, providing insights into their preferences and the unique qualities of each surface. So whether you are an aspiring artist or simply curious about the creative process, let’s take a closer look at what most professional artists paint on.

Canvas

When it comes to painting, canvas is a popular choice for many professional artists. Canvas is a versatile material that can be used with a variety of mediums, including oil, acrylic, and even watercolor. There are several different types of canvas that artists can choose from, depending on their preferences and the specific needs of their artwork.

Traditional canvas

Traditional canvas refers to the classic type of canvas that is commonly used by artists. It typically consists of a woven fabric, such as cotton or linen, that is stretched tightly across a wooden frame. Traditional canvas is known for its durability and stability, which makes it a great choice for artists who prefer a surface that will not warp or sag over time.

Canvas panels

Canvas panels are another option for artists looking for a more portable and affordable alternative to traditional canvas. These panels are made by mounting canvas onto a rigid board, such as cardboard or Masonite. Canvas panels are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for plein air painting or for artists who frequently work on location.

Canvas pads

Canvas pads are a convenient option for artists who want the texture of canvas without the need for stretching or mounting. These pads consist of sheets of canvas that are glued together along one edge, similar to a sketchpad. Canvas pads are great for quick studies, practice pieces, or for artists who prefer to work on a smaller scale.

Canvas boards

Canvas boards are similar to canvas panels, except they are made with a thicker board, typically made of MDF (medium-density fiberboard). This extra thickness provides additional stability and support, making canvas boards a popular choice for artists who prefer a more rigid painting surface.

Stretched canvas

Stretched canvas refers to canvas that has been stretched and stapled onto a wooden frame. This type of canvas is ready to use right out of the package, eliminating the need for artists to stretch the canvas themselves. Stretched canvas is available in a variety of sizes and is a convenient option for artists who prefer a pre-stretched surface.

Canvas rolls

Canvas rolls are large sheets of canvas that are sold on a roll. Artists can cut the canvas to their desired size and stretch or mount it onto a frame themselves. Canvas rolls offer artists the flexibility to create work in custom sizes, making them a popular choice for artists who require larger canvas sizes or prefer to work on non-standard dimensions.

Paper

Paper is another surface that professional artists often choose to paint on. There are various types of paper available, each with its own unique qualities and suitability for different mediums and techniques.

Watercolor paper

Watercolor paper is specifically designed to absorb water-based paints, such as watercolors or gouache. It is made with fibers that can hold a significant amount of water without warping or disintegrating. Watercolor paper comes in different weights and textures, giving artists the flexibility to choose the ideal surface for their artwork.

Drawing paper

Drawing paper is a versatile option for artists who use dry mediums, such as pencils, charcoal, or pastels. It has a smooth surface that allows for precise detailing and shading. Drawing paper is available in various weights, and artists can choose between different textures, such as smooth or rough, depending on their artistic preferences.

Printmaking paper

Printmaking paper is specifically designed for printmaking techniques, such as etching, lithography, or screen printing. It is made to withstand the pressure and moisture involved in the printing process while producing consistent and high-quality prints. Printmaking paper is available in different weights and textures to accommodate various printmaking techniques.

Mixed media paper

Mixed media paper is designed to handle a combination of wet and dry mediums. It is typically thicker than regular drawing or sketch paper, allowing artists to layer different materials and techniques without the worry of the paper buckling or tearing. Mixed media paper is an excellent choice for artists who enjoy experimenting with a variety of materials in their artwork.

Illustration board

Illustration board is a sturdy type of paperboard that is commonly used for illustrations and graphic art. It has a smooth surface that is suitable for ink, markers, and colored pencils. Illustration board comes in different thicknesses, allowing artists to choose the level of rigidity they need for their artwork.

Wood

Wood is a classic surface often chosen by professional artists for its stability and durability. There are several types of wood surfaces used in painting.

Birch plywood

Birch plywood is a popular choice for artists who want a smooth and stable surface to work on. It is made by layering thin sheets of birch veneer and bonding them with adhesive. Birch plywood is known for its strength and resistance to warping, making it a reliable substrate for paintings.

Masonite

Masonite, also known as hardboard, is made from highly compressed wood fibers. It provides a smooth and rigid painting surface that is resistant to moisture and changes in temperature. Masonite is a popular choice for artists who prefer a solid and long-lasting support for their artwork.

Hardwood panels

Hardwood panels are made from solid wood, such as oak or maple. These panels provide a sturdy and durable surface for painting. Hardwood panels are often favored by artists who appreciate the natural grain and texture of wood in their artwork.

Woodblocks

Woodblocks are used primarily for relief printing techniques, such as woodcut or linocut. They are carved on the surface to create a design that can be coated with ink and pressed onto paper or another surface. Woodblocks allow artists to create unique and detailed prints with a distinctive texture.

Metal

While not as commonly used as canvas or paper, metal surfaces can offer a unique and contemporary look to paintings. Metal surfaces are known for their durability and ability to withstand various weather conditions, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor artwork.

Aluminum panels

Aluminum panels provide a smooth and lightweight surface for painting. They are often pre-primed, making them ready to use without additional preparation. Aluminum panels offer a sleek and modern aesthetic and are ideal for artists who want a surface that is resistant to corrosion and warping.

Copper sheets

Copper sheets have a rich and warm tone that can create a unique effect in artwork. They are often used for traditional techniques, such as copperplate etching or encaustic painting. Copper sheets can be polished to a high shine or allowed to develop a natural patina over time, adding character to the artwork.

Steel sheets

Steel sheets provide a sturdy and industrial surface for painting. They can withstand heavy applications of paint and mixed media techniques. Steel sheets often have a raw and rugged appearance, which can add a contemporary and edgy feel to artwork.

Plastic

Plastic surfaces offer a lightweight and versatile option for artists. They are available in various thicknesses and sizes, making them suitable for a wide range of artistic styles and techniques.

Acrylic sheets

Acrylic sheets provide a smooth and transparent surface for artwork. They are often used for techniques such as pouring, fluid acrylics, or collage. Acrylic sheets can be easily cut into different shapes or sizes, allowing artists to create unique and contemporary artworks.

PVC boards

PVC boards, also known as foam boards, are lightweight and readily available in art supply stores. They provide a rigid and smooth surface that is suitable for a variety of mediums, including acrylics, oils, and mixed media. PVC boards are a cost-effective option for artists looking for a durable and versatile painting surface.

Glass

While not as commonly used as other surfaces, glass can offer a distinct and contemporary look to artwork. Glass surfaces provide a sleek and reflective surface that can add depth and dimension to paintings.

Glass panels

Glass panels are often used for techniques such as reverse painting or stained glass effects. The smooth surface of glass allows for precise detailing and clean lines. Glass panels can be framed or hung to create a stunning and modern art piece.

Glass sheets

Similar to glass panels, glass sheets offer artists a smooth and transparent surface to work on. Glass sheets can be used for various techniques, including alcohol ink art or mixed media collages. They are a unique choice for artists who want to experiment with different textures and light effects in their artwork.

Fabric

Fabric surfaces provide a different texture and creative possibilities for artists. They can be used in combination with other materials to create mixed media artworks or simply as a unique and versatile painting surface.

Canvas fabric

Canvas fabric, often used for making traditional canvas, can also be used as a surface for painting. It provides a textured and absorbent surface that is suitable for a variety of mediums. Canvas fabric is often used in textile art or as a component in mixed media artworks.

Silk fabric

Silk fabric offers a luxurious and smooth surface for painting. It is often used in traditional Asian painting techniques, such as sumi-e or Chinese brush painting. Silk fabric allows for delicate brushwork and vibrant colors, creating beautiful and elegant artworks.

Linen fabric

Linen fabric is known for its durability and textured surface. It is often used by artists who prefer a more pronounced weave in their artwork. Linen fabric provides a strong and stable surface for painting and is commonly used for oil and acrylic paintings.

Polyester fabric

Polyester fabric is a synthetic material that offers a smooth and durable surface for painting. It is often used for fabric painting, textile art, or as a background for mixed media artworks. Polyester fabric is resistant to wrinkling and can withstand heavy applications of paint and other mediums.

Board

Board surfaces are rigid and provide a stable and durable surface for painting. They can be used with various mediums and techniques, offering artists versatility and control over their artwork.

MDF boards

MDF (medium-density fiberboard) boards offer a smooth and stable surface for painting. They are often used in combination with gesso or other primers to create a suitable painting surface. MDF boards are readily available in art supply stores and can be found in different sizes and thicknesses.

Gesso boards

Gesso boards are made by applying gesso, a primer, to a rigid substrate such as wood or fiberboard. Gesso boards provide a smooth and textured surface that is suitable for a variety of mediums. They are often used by artists who prefer a ready-made and pre-primed surface for their artwork.

Illustration boards

Illustration boards are sturdy and versatile surfaces with a smooth finish, ideal for various painting techniques. They consist of a high-quality paper mounted onto a rigid board, providing stability and support for the artwork. Illustration boards often have a white surface that enhances the vibrancy of colors and allows for precise detailing.

Masonry

While not commonly used for traditional painting, masonry surfaces can offer unique and experimental possibilities for artists. Masonry surfaces add a tactile and three-dimensional element to artwork.

Terracotta tiles

Terracotta tiles provide a textured and warm surface for painting. They can be used in combination with other mediums, such as glazes, to add depth and dimension to the artwork. Terracotta tiles are often used in ceramic art or mixed media collages.

Bricks

Bricks offer a rugged and urban surface for painting. They can be used as a unique canvas or as a component in larger sculptures or installations. Bricks provide a raw and gritty aesthetic that can add a contemporary and urban feel to artwork.

Stone slabs

Stone slabs provide a natural and textured surface for painting. They can be used with various mediums, such as acrylics, oils, or even encaustics. Stone slabs offer artists a unique and organic canvas that can add a sense of history and nature to their artwork.

Digital

In the digital age, many artists have turned to digital surfaces for their artwork. Digital surfaces allow artists to create and manipulate artwork using various digital tools and software.

Graphic tablets

Graphic tablets provide a digital surface for artists to draw and paint directly. They often come with a stylus or pen that allows for precision and control in digital artwork. Graphic tablets offer artists a convenient and intuitive way to create digital paintings, illustrations, or graphic designs.

Computer screens

Computer screens can also serve as a digital surface for artwork. Artists can use digital painting software to create and manipulate their artwork directly on the computer screen. Computer screens offer a large and vibrant canvas for artists to express their creativity digitally.

Digital projectors

Digital projectors allow artists to project images or designs onto various surfaces, turning them into a digital canvas. This opens up endless possibilities for artists to create large-scale murals or interactive installations. Digital projectors offer artists a unique way to combine traditional and digital techniques in their artwork.

In conclusion, professional artists have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing a painting surface. From traditional canvas and paper to wood, metal, plastic, glass, fabric, board, masonry, and digital surfaces, each material offers unique qualities that can enhance and complement different artistic styles and techniques. Whether it’s the texture of canvas, the smoothness of paper, the durability of wood, or the contemporary feel of metal or glass, artists have the freedom to experiment and choose the surface that best suits their artistic vision. So, go ahead and explore the possibilities – let your imagination guide you as you create beautiful and meaningful artwork on the surface that speaks to you. Happy painting!