The Panel Builders Notes

When collecting original artwork, the image is king, but only part of the story. Just as important—though often overlooked—is what the work is created on and what it is created with. I am a self professed materials snob and believe the quality of all materials really matters. But this writing addresses the support beneath a painting and how it plays a significant role in how the art will age, how it responds to its environment, and how it holds its condition and value over t

There are many things a painter can create on, but a good surface is ideal both during the painting process and long after the work leaves the studio. While stretched canvas is common, many artists choose panels prepared with artist grade linen for their superior performance, stability, and archival quality. It is what I use for my Superior and rotten work. In this article, I will explore why linen panels are especially well-suited for oil painting, how they improve the pain

Choosing the right painting surface is one of the most important—and often overlooked—decisions an artist makes. While canvas has long been the default, artist grade linen  has earned a reputation as the superior surface for professional painters. Understanding how each material is made, how they behave under paint, and how they age over time can help you choose the surface that best supports your work. In this article, I will compare artist grade linen vs canvas  in detail,

. Mounting canvas or linen to a rigid wood panel is one of the most stable, archival painting surfaces you can work on. It combines the feel of fabric with the structural integrity of a panel. This is the method I use regularly on the panels we produce, and it’s what I recommend to artists who care about control while painting and longevity after the work leaves the studio. If your goal is to create paintings that last for generations, this approach is worth serious considera

If you’ve ever felt your brush push and bounce back while working on stretched canvas, you’re not alone. While canvas has long been a studio staple, many painters—especially professionals—are turning to wood panels for a firmer, more stable painting surface. After decades of working as an artist and building custom panels by hand, I’ve seen firsthand how surface choice can impact not just the painting process, but the longevity of the artwork itself. Here’s why wood panels ar

Panels can be prepared in a number of ways, including attaching canvas, linen, paper or other materials, or painting directly on the wood. Preparing your wood panel properly is essential to ensure your artwork has the best possible foundation. Whether you're working with acrylic, oil, or mixed media, a well-prepped panel will support the longevity, texture, and vibrancy of your piece. Here's a step-by-step guide for those who prefer to paint directly onto the wood. What You’