Oil Primers & Grounds for canvas and panels

I had a long technical chat to an avid painter today.  His job means he frequently travels between the UK and the USA  and he's been taking an oil painting class in New York.  The tutor has shown everyone how to use traditional lead based grounds on canvas and panels and our avid painter wants to replicate the same method.  The UK and Europe has gradually stopped making lead based products, the basic health risks in the manufacturing process are obvious and the problems of only selling to professional artists, who know the risks and take the right precautions when using lead base products, has proved difficult to manage.

A good oil primer from C. Roberson

Lead based primer had the advantage of being flexible, drying reasonably quickly and giving a reflective warmer surface for the oil painter on both canvas and wood panels. 

I would recommend any of the following three primers, all without the dangers of lead but some of the proterties and good quality:

Robersons Oil Primer - no lead - but a  high quality ground based on titanium white, China Clay, linseed oil and an Alkyd Resin.  Two coats recommended to achieve the finish with the characteristic 'slippery' feel. This is a relatively speedy dryer, the Alkyd Resin helping to reduce the drying time to approximately 16 hours.

Umton Oil Ground is another interesting oil painting primer creating a smooth reflective surface.  Containing Titanium White and Lithophone, Chalk, Stand Oil (which encourages levelling), Dammar Varnish (added sheen) and Turpentine.  Much slower to dry, so patience required - allow 3-4 days at least. 

Thixotropic Alkyd Primer is a best seller from Spectrum. Forgive me but i love the word 'thixotropic' not sure why - it  means sometimes fluid and sometimes gel! This oil primer becomes fluid when stirred and returns to a gel state when allowed to stand. This is a one coat multi purpose product, the finish is an opaque gesso-like surface for all types of oil painting supports. For canvas or wood apply a coat of warm glue size; for metal, clean surface and abrade to give a good key.

It is always recommended to size with a rabbit skin glue before using oil primers, sealing the painting surface and protecting the material. There's a good prepared rabbit skin glue available from Roberson - saves the nose from the aroma of making your own but slightly less fun.  Make sure you dilute the solution or your canvas will be too drum like.

 

Would be great to hear about products you like....