Best Linen Canvas For Oil Painting (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the perfect canvas material for oil painting, linen is an excellent choice. Linen canvas has been a popular choice among artists for centuries and is still widely used today. The reason for its popularity is due to its durability, strength, and unique texture that gives oil paintings a distinctive look.
Before buying a linen canvas for oil painting, there are a few factors to consider. One of the most critical factors is the quality of the linen itself. The best linen canvas for oil painting will be made from premium, high-quality linen that has been prepared and treated specifically for oil painting. Additionally, the weave of the linen should be a tightly woven, even weave that is strong enough to support the weight of multiple layers of oil paint.
When selecting the perfect linen canvas for oil painting, you may also want to consider the size and shape of the canvas, as well as the type of stretcher bars or mounting options that are available. To ensure you are choosing the right linen canvas for your specific needs, you can ask yourself questions like:
– What type of oil painting am I creating? (landscape, portrait, still life, etc.)
– What size canvas do I need?
– Do I want a pre-stretched and mounted canvas or raw linen that I can stretch myself?
– What is my budget?
By considering these factors and asking these questions, you can select the best linen canvas for oil painting to suit your needs and create a beautiful piece of art.
10 Best Linen Canvas For Oil Painting
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
Ideal for oil painting on canvas with a fine, smooth texture.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
This product is ideal for artists who want high-quality, pre-stretched canvas for their paintings.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
Ideal for professional artists seeking superb color retention and performance with oil paints.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
Ideal for painting with oils, acrylics, and pastels on a primed linen canvas that is stretched and ready to use.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
Ideal for oil painting on canvas, offering 10 bleed proof sheets with an 11 ounce weight in a 12×16 inch size.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
This product is ideal for painting with watercolor and oil on high-quality, acid-free canvas boards that come in a 12-pack.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
The product is ideal for artists who paint with oils, alkyds, and other media on linen canvas panels.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
This product is ideal for oil painting due to its high-quality linen canvas that has been primed with oil.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
It is ideal for artists who want high-quality linen panels with enhanced oil priming for superb performance and color retention.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
This canvas is ideal for professional artists who prefer linen material and vintage oil priming to create high-quality artwork.
|
|
1. Linen Canvas Roll – 82" X 5-1/2 Yds, Oil Primed, No. 9, Fine Smooth Texture
The Claessens Linen Canvas Roll is an excellent choice for artists and painters who are looking for a high-quality canvas that is both durable and versatile. Measuring 82 inches by 5-1/2 yards, this canvas roll provides ample space for artists to create their masterpieces.
One of the unique features of this canvas roll is the oil-primed surface, which provides a fine smooth texture that is perfect for oil painting. The oil priming helps to seal the fibers of the linen, preventing any paint from seeping through and ensuring a long-lasting finish.
The canvas roll is made from high-quality linen, which is known for its strength and durability. This makes it an excellent choice for artists who want to create pieces that will last for years to come. The linen is also resistant to shrinking and stretching, ensuring that the canvas remains taut and flat.
With a number nine rating, this canvas roll has a fine smooth texture that is perfect for capturing fine details and creating intricate designs. The surface is also suitable for a range of painting styles, including impasto and glazing.
2. Fredrix Pro Belgian Linen Pre-Stretched Canvas 11 In. X 14 In. Each
The Fredrix Pro Series Traditional Profile Belgian Linen Canvas is a top-quality canvas that offers an exceptional painting experience. Measuring 11" x 14", this canvas is perfect for artists who prefer a smaller working surface. The canvas is made of 100% Belgian linen, which is considered one of the finest materials for canvas. Belgian linen is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to decay, making it an excellent choice for artists who want their artwork to last for a long time.
The canvas is acrylic primed, which means that it has been coated with an acrylic gesso primer that provides a smooth and even surface for painting. The primer is also pH balanced, which ensures that the canvas will not deteriorate over time. The canvas has a traditional profile, which means that it has a 1 3/8" thick stretcher bar that provides stability and support for the canvas.
The Fredrix Pro Series Traditional Profile Belgian Linen Canvas is suitable for use with a wide range of painting mediums, including oil, acrylic, and alkyd paints. It is also compatible with a variety of painting techniques, including impasto, glazing, and alla prima. The canvas is designed to absorb paint evenly, which helps to create vibrant colors and smooth transitions between tones.
3. Oil-Primed Linen Canvas: Elite Performance [12 Pack]
Introducing the Centurion Oil Primed Linen Canvas Panels, a must-have for artists looking for high-quality canvases that offer both archival longevity and superb performance. These canvases are made with an exclusive OP enhanced oil priming, ensuring that your paintings will retain their colors and quality for years to come.
Each canvas is made of medium weight linen that provides a superb receptive surface for oil and alkyd painting. The canvases are acid-free and made with non-warping material, ensuring that they remain in excellent condition for the long haul.
These canvases are perfect for everyone from students to professional artists, and are ideal for commissions and final paintings. The enhanced oil primer allows for brilliant results with your paint, making them a great choice for artists of all levels.
One of the best things about these canvases is that they take up only 1/4" the space of a 3/4" canvas, making them ideal for artists who need to travel with their art supplies. They are designed to be non-absorbent, which means that they are lightweight and easy to store.
The Centurion Oil Primed Linen Canvas Panels come in a variety of sizes, including 3×5", 4×6", 4×8", 5×7", and 6×8". This 12-pack offers artists the flexibility to choose the size that best fits their needs.
4. Senso Mini Stretched Canvas – 3 Pack.
Introducing the incredibly versatile canvases for painting, perfect for artists of all levels to explore and try out new media. These painting canvases feature a clear acrylic priming that enables them to be painted or drawn on with an array of media, such as acrylic gouache, egg tempera, oil colors, pastels, graphite, charcoal, and even micron pens.
Each panel is crafted with a medium tooth natural linen weave surface, providing an ideal surface for building up heavy layers of paint or collaging/decoupage. These heavyweight board panels are not only beautiful but also built to last a lifetime. They feature a 3mm Archival MDF board backer and acid-free glue, ensuring that your artwork remains in excellent condition for years to come.
These canvases for painting come in a pack of 3 and are available in various sizes, including 3×3", 3×4", 3×5", 4×4", 4×5", 4×6", 5×5", 5×7", 6×6", 8×8", 8×10", 9×12", 10×10", 11×14", 12×12", 12×16", and 16×20". Whether you're a professional artist or a beginner, these painting canvases are perfect for all skill levels. They're ideal for oils, acrylics, graphite, pastels, technical drawing pens, collage, painting, drawing, screen printing, and more.
Investing in these canvases for painting means investing in the perfect art. The stiff and durable panels provide a surface that is perfect for artists to express their creativity without limits. Thanks to their versatility, these canvases are an ideal choice for any artist looking to experiment with different media. So, go ahead and start your artistic journey with confidence, knowing that you're using the best quality canvases for your artwork.
5. Centurion Oil Painting Canvas Pad – 12×16 Inches
Introducing the Linen Canvas Pad for Painting, a perfect solution for artists who are always on the go. This pad has been designed to provide a brilliant refraction of oil and alkyd paints, ensuring that your paintings come out looking exceptional every time. The 11-ounce, double oil-primed linen with a beautiful medium-fine texture gives the pad a premium feel, making it a favorite among artists of all levels.
The Linen Canvas Pad for Painting comes with 10 sheets per pad, providing ample space for you to create your masterpiece. Its lightweight design makes it an ideal alternative for travel painting, allowing you to take 10 sheets in a space smaller than one canvas. Whether you're a plein air painter, a student, or an instructor, this pad is perfect for studies, workshops, traveling, and making custom panels.
The pad's 90-day warranty gives you the confidence to use it without any worries. The warranty covers any manufacturing defects, ensuring that you get only the best quality product. Its versatile nature makes it an excellent choice for artists who want to experiment with different techniques and styles.
6. Pro Canvas Pack: 12 Artist Boards For Painting
Introducing the ACID FREE DURABLE CANVAS, a high-quality product that promises to deliver excellent performance and convenience. Made of 100% cotton that is environmentally friendly, these canvas boards are perfect for both students and professional artists alike.
Each pack includes 12 ready-to-use acrylic paint canvas boards, already primed with acid-free acrylic gesso for your convenience. The cotton surface unprimed weight is 4 oz. while the primed weight is 8 oz., ensuring that each canvas offers the perfect combination of quality, economy, and convenience.
These canvases are constructed with non-acidic archival materials, making them ideal for oil and acrylic paint and all other painting media. They are also perfect for kids crafting, all decorative painting, and hobby projects, making them a versatile choice.
The package includes 12 canvases that are vacuum packed, ensuring they remain in pristine condition until you're ready to use them. Each canvas measures 9×12 inches with a thickness of 4 mm, making them lightweight and easy to store and carry.
The ACID FREE DURABLE CANVAS comes with a 100% money-back guarantee. The manufacturer stands behind the quality of their product and is confident that you'll be fully satisfied. If for any reason you're not pleased with their art supplies, simply return them for a no-hassle refund or replacement.
7. Centurion Deluxe Oil Primed Panels – 3pk
Introducing the perfect canvas for artists of all skill levels – the Acid-free Archival Linen Panels! Made of medium weight linen and mounted on a 3mm (1/8") MDF wood board, these panels are designed for oil and alkyd painting and have an exclusive OP enhanced oil priming for fantastic color retention.
These premium quality linen panels are perfect for artists who love the archival longevity and texture of linen. They are ideal for professional artists who require the highest quality canvas for their commissioned work. They are also perfect for traveling artists who want to find inspiration on the go!
The OP enhanced priming used for each of these canvas panels ensures that the colors stay vibrant for a long time. The linen panels are mounted on a non-warping MDF board, which makes them easy to handle and transport. They take up only 1/4 the space of a 3/4" canvas, which makes them ideal for easy storage and travel.
These professional linen panels are available in convenient packs of 3 in various sizes, including 11×14", 12×12", 12×16", 12×24", 14×18", 16×20", 18×24", 20×24", 22×28", 24×30", and 24×36". This variety of sizes makes it easy for artists to choose the perfect canvas for their next masterpiece.
8. Claessens Oil Primed Belgian Linen Canvas – 12" X 16"
The Old Holland Claessens Oil Primed Belgian Linen Canvas is a high-quality canvas that is perfect for artists who want to create masterpieces that will last for years to come. This canvas is available in a convenient size of 12" x 16", making it ideal for a variety of painting projects.
Made from the finest Belgian linen, this canvas is strong, durable, and able to withstand the test of time. The linen is carefully woven to ensure a tight, even weave that will provide a smooth surface for painting. The canvas is also oil primed, which means that it has been coated with a layer of high-quality oil primer that will provide an excellent surface for oil painting.
The Old Holland Claessens Oil Primed Belgian Linen Canvas is designed to be the perfect canvas for artists who demand the best. The canvas is made with the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, ensuring that it will provide a superior painting experience. The canvas is also designed to be easy to work with, allowing artists to create their masterpieces with ease.
9. Elite Oil Primed Linen Panels | 6 Pack
The Centurion Oil Primed Linen Canvas Panels are the perfect option for artists who want to achieve superb performance and color retention in their oil and alkyd paintings. These exclusive canvases feature an enhanced oil priming that ensures archival longevity and a receptive surface that accepts paint beautifully.
Each canvas is made of medium weight linen, which is known for its durability and texture. The canvases are acid-free and made with non-warping material, ensuring that your final paintings will last for years to come. What's more, these canvases take up only 1/4" the space of a 3/4" canvas, making them easy to store and travel with.
The Centurion Oil Primed Linen Canvas Panels come in a variety of sizes, including 6×12", 8×8", 8×10", and 9×12". This means that artists can choose the size that fits their needs and preferences. Additionally, these canvases are sold as a 6-pack, making it easy to stock up and always have a canvas on hand when inspiration strikes.
Whether you're a student or a professional artist, these canvases are designed to meet your needs. The enhanced oil primer allows for brilliant results with your paint, while the non-absorbent surface ensures that colors remain vibrant and true. So, if you're looking for a high-quality canvas that will help you create stunning oil and alkyd paintings, the Centurion Oil Primed Linen Canvas Panels are an excellent choice.
10. Vincent Pro Vintage Linen Canvas – 18×24.
Introducing the 18 x 24" canvas, a premium quality canvas that is perfect for professional painters who desire an excellent painting surface with qualities of luminosity. The canvas is double-sized and primed with a highly absorbent warm yellowish archival quality oil primer, impervious to paints leaching. It is specifically suited for oils or alkyds only, ensuring that your artwork lasts a lifetime.
Crafted from Belgian linen, this canvas boasts a 13 oz. primed weight and is very strong. The natural oils within the fibers keep it flexible and help prevent disintegration over time. With a smooth tooth surface, it's ideal for painters looking for a high-quality painting surface, although it's not considered of a portrait texture.
The canvas depth is 7/8" and has a canvas relief of 5/16" (Space between canvas and Bar). The stretcher bar is made from solid pine or fir and is sourced from the sustainable forests of the Pacific Northwest. No finger joints are allowed, which tend to fail under pressure and over time, ensuring that your artwork stays perfectly intact.
Best Linen Canvas For Oil Painting FAQs
Are there any drawbacks to using linen canvas for oil painting?
While linen canvas is a popular choice for oil painting, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider.
Firstly, linen canvas can be more expensive than other materials. This is because linen is a natural fiber that requires more processing and preparation than synthetic materials like cotton canvas. Additionally, linen canvas is often considered to have a more "professional" appearance, which can drive up the price.
Secondly, linen canvas can be more susceptible to shrinking and warping than other materials. This is because linen is a natural fiber that can be affected by changes in humidity and temperature. To prevent this, it's important to properly stretch and prime your linen canvas before painting on it.
Finally, some artists may find that linen canvas has a rougher texture than other materials. This can be a matter of personal preference, but if you prefer a smoother surface for your oil paintings, you may want to consider a different type of canvas.
Overall, while there are some potential drawbacks to using linen canvas for oil painting, many artists find that the benefits – including durability, archival quality, and a professional appearance – outweigh any downsides.
Are there any special preparation steps I should take before painting on linen canvas?
Yes, there are some special preparation steps that you should take before painting on a linen canvas. Here are some of them:
1. Preparing the canvas: It is essential to stretch the linen canvas properly before painting on it. Make sure that the canvas is tight and free of any wrinkles or bubbles. You can also prime the canvas with gesso to create a smooth surface for painting.
2. Choosing the right paint: Linen canvas is a porous material that can absorb a lot of paint. Therefore, it is recommended to use high-quality paints that have a good pigment-to-binder ratio. Also, avoid using oil-based paints on linen canvas, as they can cause the canvas to deteriorate over time.
3. Choosing the right brushes: Use high-quality brushes that are suitable for the type of paint you are using. For example, if you are using acrylic paint, use synthetic brushes, and if you are using oil paint, use natural hair brushes.
4. Creating a color palette: Before you start painting, create a color palette that includes all the colors you will need for your painting. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid having to stop and mix colors in the middle of painting.
By taking these preparation steps, you can ensure that your painting on linen canvas turns out beautiful and long-lasting.
Can I use linen canvas for both oil and acrylic painting?
Yes, you can use linen canvas for both oil and acrylic paintings. Linen canvas is a popular choice among artists due to its durability and versatility. It is made from natural fibers and has a tight weave, which provides a sturdy surface for painting.
When using linen canvas for oil painting, it is important to prime the surface with a layer of gesso. This will create a barrier between the canvas and the oil paint, preventing it from seeping through and causing damage to the fibers over time.
For acrylic painting, the surface can be left unprimed or primed with gesso. Acrylic paint is water-based and will not damage the canvas fibers like oil paint can. However, priming the surface with gesso can help to create a smoother surface and enhance the colors of the paint.
Overall, using linen canvas for both oil and acrylic painting is a great choice for artists who want a durable and versatile surface to work on. Just remember to prime the surface with gesso when using oil paint to ensure the longevity of your artwork.
How do I choose the right weight and texture of linen canvas for my oil painting?
Choosing the right weight and texture of linen canvas for oil painting depends on several factors. Firstly, consider the size of the painting as larger paintings will require a heavier weight canvas to support the weight of the paint. A weight of 14-16 ounces per square yard is recommended for larger paintings, while 7-12 ounces per square yard is suitable for smaller paintings.
Texture is also important as it affects the way the paint is applied and the final appearance of the painting. A rough texture will create a more expressive and textured painting, while a smoother texture will result in a more refined and detailed painting. It is important to consider the subject matter of the painting and the desired effect when choosing the texture.
When selecting a linen canvas, it is important to choose a high-quality canvas that is properly primed to ensure the longevity of the painting. A professional art supply store can provide guidance and advice on selecting the right weight and texture of linen canvas for your oil painting.
How do I properly stretch and prime a linen canvas for oil painting?
Stretching and priming a linen canvas is an important step in oil painting as it prepares the surface for the application of paint. Here are the steps to properly stretch and prime a linen canvas:
1. Cut the linen canvas to the desired size and leave an extra 2-3 inches on all sides for stretching.
2. Dampen the linen canvas with water and allow it to dry completely.
3. Stretch the linen canvas over a wooden frame using stretching pliers to ensure a tight fit. Staple the canvas to the frame, starting at the center of each side and working your way towards the corners.
4. Apply a layer of rabbit skin glue to the surface of the canvas and allow it to dry completely. This will protect the canvas from the oil in the paint.
5. Apply at least two layers of gesso to the surface of the canvas, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. The gesso will provide a smooth and absorbent surface for the oil paint.
By following these steps, you can properly stretch and prime a linen canvas for oil painting and ensure a successful painting experience.
What are the advantages of using linen canvas over other types of canvas for oil painting?
Linen canvas has several advantages over other types of canvas for oil painting. First and foremost, linen is a more durable and long-lasting material than cotton canvas. This means that linen canvas will not degrade or deteriorate as quickly as cotton canvas, which can help preserve the quality of the artwork over time.
Additionally, linen canvas has a smoother surface than cotton canvas, which can provide a more even and consistent surface for the paint to adhere to. This can result in a more polished and professional-looking finished product.
Another advantage of linen canvas is its ability to withstand tension and stretching. This means that the canvas can be stretched tighter without fear of it tearing or warping, which can result in a more stable painting surface.
Finally, linen canvas is less prone to yellowing over time than other types of canvas, which can help maintain the clarity and vibrancy of the colors used in the artwork.
Overall, while linen canvas may be more expensive than other options, its durability, smooth surface, ability to withstand tension and stretching, and resistance to yellowing make it a superior choice for oil painting.
What are the best brands of linen canvas for oil painting?
There are several renowned brands of linen canvas that artists prefer to use for oil painting. One of the top brands is Claessens, which offers different types of linen canvas, including medium and fine weave, oil-primed and universal primed. Another popular brand is Belle Arti, which offers a wide range of linen canvases with different weights and textures, suitable for all types of painting. Frederix, Masterpiece, and Artfix are also well-known brands that offer high-quality linen canvases for oil painting. When choosing a linen canvas, it is essential to consider the quality of the linen material, the priming process, and the texture of the canvas. The best linen canvases have a tight weave, a smooth surface, and a consistent texture that allows for excellent paint adhesion and durability. Ultimately, the choice of brand and type of linen canvas depends on an artist's personal preference and painting style.
What is the average cost of high-quality linen canvas for oil painting?
The cost of high-quality linen canvas for oil painting can vary depending on the size and brand. On average, a 16"x20" linen canvas can cost anywhere from $20 to $50. However, it is important to note that some high-end brands may charge upwards of $100 or more for the same size canvas. It is also important to consider the weight and texture of the canvas when selecting one for oil painting, as these factors can affect the final outcome of the artwork. While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper canvas, investing in a high-quality linen canvas can make a significant difference in the final product and can ultimately save money in the long run by ensuring that the artwork stands the test of time.
What is the difference between stretched and unstretched linen canvas for oil painting?
Stretched and unstretched linen canvas are two options for oil painters when it comes to choosing a surface to paint on. The primary difference between the two is that a stretched canvas has been tightly stretched and stapled onto a wooden frame, while an unstretched canvas has not been mounted onto a frame.
Stretched canvas is typically ready to use straight out of the package and provides a taut surface for painting, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a firm surface. It is also easier to hang and display stretched canvases once the painting is complete. However, shipping and storage of stretched canvases can be more difficult due to their size and shape.
Unstretched canvas, on the other hand, is more versatile and allows for greater flexibility in terms of painting size and shape. It can be stretched onto a frame by the artist, which allows for control over the tension and size of the painting surface. Unstretched canvas is also easier to store and transport, making it a popular choice for plein air painters.
Ultimately, the choice between stretched and unstretched linen canvas comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the artist and their painting style.
What should I look for when buying pre-primed linen canvas for oil painting?
When you are buying pre-primed linen canvas for oil painting, there are certain things you should look for to ensure that you are getting a high-quality product. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Quality of the linen: The quality of the linen can have a big impact on the final result of your painting. Look for a canvas that is made from high-quality, tightly-woven linen. This will ensure that the canvas is strong and durable, and that it will hold up well to the rigors of oil painting.
2. Quality of the primer: The primer is what prepares the canvas for painting, so it is important that it is of high quality. Look for a primer that is evenly applied, with no streaks or bubbles. The primer should also be compatible with oil paints, and should provide a good surface for the paint to adhere to.
3. Texture: The texture of the canvas can also affect the final result of your painting. Some artists prefer a smooth surface, while others prefer a more textured surface. Look for a canvas that has the texture you prefer.
4. Size and shape: Finally, consider the size and shape of the canvas. Think about the subject matter you will be painting, and choose a canvas that will be appropriate for your needs. Also, consider the size of your workspace, and make sure that the canvas will fit comfortably on your easel.
