Gesso is a paint mixture that is used as a primer to prevent the paint from seeping through the canvas or material you are using. It is used in a lot of mixed media projects, art journals, paintings, and textured backgrounds. Gesso has been around for centuries, it was originally made from a mixture of chalk or plaster and glue. The word ‘gesso’ is Italian for ‘chalk’.
Gesso can get expensive. A good quality gesso costs between $10 – $18 dollars. By making your own, you will be saving some money and you most likely have all the ingredients at home.
DIY Gesso:
Supplies needed:
* 1cup of Plaster of Paris or 1 cup of cornstarch
* 1/4 cup of water
* 1/4 cup white glue
* 1/4 cup of white acrylic paint
* Bowl or a container you will not be using for food.
* Something to stir with – something you will not be using for food
* Measuring cups
*Paper towels
Step 1:
Put all the above ingredients into a bowl.
Mix well.
Step 2:
Store your homemade gesso into a jar or container with a lid.
That’s all there is to it! Now you can have fun and paint away!
** homemade gesso, if stored properly, typically lasts for approximately 2 weeks. Making this in small batches is recommended.
Till next time,
~ Mel
Arts &Crafts, How-To's, Upcycling & Repurposing 
Leave a comment