Calculate a traditional animal-glue gesso batch for panels or sized canvas. Adjust the recipe to suit the absorbency and flexibility you need, then weigh the ingredients in the selected units.
Ingredients
Rabbit Skin Glue35.8 g3.6%
Water402.9 g40.3%
Filler537 g53.7%
Linseed Oil17.9 g1.8%
Glycerin6.2 g0.62%
Phenol0.24 g0.02%
- This emulsion gesso will cover approximately 5,000 cm² and has an estimated shrinkage of ~40.3%.
- The filler to dry binder ratio is approximately 10:1.
- It is suitable for use on stretched canvas.
Recipe settings
Batch Weight
How to prepare
1
Measure 402.9 g of water. Use distilled or purified water if possible.
2
Measure 35.8 g of Rabbit Skin Glue. Soak the dry glue in the water from step 1 and wait until it swells. This can take anywhere between 10-15 minutes for powdered glue to 24 hours for larger pieces. Then heat the mixture gently in a double boiler until the glue is fully dissolved.
Never boil the glue! That would destroy its adhesive properties.
3
Measure 6.2 g of Glycerin. Gradually add it to the mixture while stirring to ensure it is fully incorporated.
4
Add 0.24 g of Phenol and mix it well.
5
Measure 537 g of filler (chalk, gypsum, marble dust, etc.). Part of that could be a white pigment if you prefer white gesso. Gradually add it to the glue mixture while stirring to avoid lumps.
6
Wait for the mixture to cool slightly before adding the oil. This helps prevent the oil from separating and ensures a smooth emulsion.
7
Measure 17.9 g of Linseed Oil. Gradually add it to the mixture while stirring to ensure the oil is fully incorporated. Use a mixer or blender to ensure the oil is fully incorporated into the mixture.
8
Strain the gesso if needed and put it in the refrigerator.
How to use
- Store covered in the refrigerator and do not freeze.
- Reheat gently before use.
- Keep it warm while applying it.
- If you find it hard to use, dilute it with a small amount of water.