As an artist, you know that the materials you use are just as important as your artistic talent. From the quality of the paint to the canvas and wood you use, every little detail matters when it comes to creating a masterpiece. Unfortunately, when it comes to buying cheap canvas and wood, the saying "buyer beware" is especially true.
One of the biggest issues with cheap canvas and wood is that the manufacturer may use wood that is still green. This means that the wood hasn't been properly dried, and when the canvas is attached to it, the wood will bow over time, causing the canvas to become crooked. It's like building a house on an unstable foundation – it might look fine at first, but eventually, it will crumble.
Another issue with cheap canvas is that it may come with exposed staples. Not only does this look unprofessional, but the thin canvas used in cheaper products may not be coated with gesso, which is necessary for the longevity of the artwork. You can always coat the canvas with gesso yourself, but if you're trying to save money, this might not be the best option.
If you're a starving artist (and let's face it, many of us are), you might be tempted to buy the cheapest canvas you can find. However, it's important to keep in mind that cheap gallery-wrapped canvas is especially susceptible to changes in humidity and dryness. When this happens, the canvas can warp, even after it's been sold, and your collector won't be too happy.
Framed canvas can be forced straight by framing, but unframed canvas is at the mercy of the climate. Even if you've painted and varnished the front of the canvas, the back is still exposed to the elements. This means that if you're using cheap canvas, your artwork might not stand the test of time.
The good news is that you don't have to break the bank to buy professional-grade canvas. Look for sales at various art supply stores or consider buying canvas in bulk to save money in the long run. In the end, it's worth investing a little extra money to ensure that your artwork will last for years to come. After all, you don't want your masterpiece to crumble like a house built on an unstable foundation.
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