I can’t say I will do a lot of product reviews–or even any–but when I find a product I love, I have to share. Lots of people ask what I paint most of my work on. They see the dimension, but because I cover the sides with paint and ephemera, and because the size is thicker than most canvas stretchers, they want to know what it is.
The surface is called a cradled painting panel, and is available on Amazon. I get these at Dick Blick too, though I usually travel into the city to look and decide. Of course they’re available online, but when you have the option of going into the city, grabbing a latte, looking at everything walking around in the city, it’s a whole lot more fun. Still, you can’t always go get what you want, and there are lots of great deals online, so Amazon or Dick Blick are great options.
What I like about the cradled painting panels:
– Unlike canvas (which is fine for other art), you can paste ephemera, attach found objects and really work paint on these panels, without stretching anything.
– You can also nail or screw into it, depending on your intentions
– You don’t need to frame it, though the thicker depth is better for this than the thinnest 7/8″ depth.
– The wood panels are extremely smooth and the joints are tight, making for a nice, sharp shape and no texture behind your work
– They are sturdier than paper or canvas
– They just look cool
So, if you’re undecided, get just one of these boards, or, get a sketchbook. You have to have something to draw on!
Hey Christine,
This sounds very interesting, but the links don’t work.
Yes, it would be great if they actually could have, but apparently I can’t put links there. I’ll have to just rely on posting pictures next time!