Expert: Tom Riddolls M.A.C. - 8/28/2009

Question
I recently bought on the Internet, a roll of what was supposed to be triple primed cotton canvas.  The website clearly states "Triple primed Canvas. "However, the label on the roll, when it arrived, says "Triple coated with acid free sizing, and two coats of acrylic primer . . ." The company insists this IS triple coated primer, because the manufacturer says it is.  I think it is not triple coat primed, because the label says TWO coats of primer . . .  The company insists any PROFESSIONAL artist would understand what the label intends, and that its intent it that it is Triple primed.  What say you?

Answer
Hi Terri,

I would have to agree with the manufacturer.  The word primer does not have a strict definition and a clear glue coat would be considered a priming.  Many early spanish paintings only had a clear animal hide glue priming.  The gesso we are all familiar with seeing on new canvases is very close to basic white house paint primer.  gesso is a primer, but not all primers are gesso.  

I would suggest avoiding the pre-primed stuff anyways, you will never stretch it properly.  buy some heavy cotton canvas at the fabric store.  buy a few sheets of animal hide glue at your supply store along with a bag of calcium carbonate, they may call it whiting.  google how to mix it up and your end result will be far superior to anything bought pre-finished.

Tom