Gesso is a base coat used to prepare surfaces before painting for better grip. It protects and seals the substrate which prevents paint absorption, in other words, the paint will rest on top of the surface instead of getting sucked into it. The use of gesso is especially important when using oil paints; in direct contact with the fabric, oils can eat away at the cotton canvas over time. Tri-Art professional quality gesso is made with 100% acrylic emulsion and contains calcium carbonate. It is pH neutral and ideal for oil paintings and acrylics. It is waterproof when dry and does not crack, crumble, flake, or lift off the substrate. •White and opaque•Dries to a matte finish•Can be sanded when dry•Provides a reflective layer that enhances the vividness of colors. To create a more textured finish, mix with modeling paste until the desired consistency is reached.                 Made in Canada