Sandable hard gesso. GOLDEN Sandable Hard Gesso is formulated with 100% acrylic polymer emulsion. It contains high levels of titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate, and other inert solids to produce an easily sanded surface.

Using

Only use on inflexible substrates such as hardboard, wood or metal panels. Potential for cracking may occur if used on highly absorbent surfaces, like canvas, even when adhered to a rigid surface beforehand.

Application

Apply in multiple thin layers, gradually building up to the desired thickness. Single thick layers could crack upon drying. Stir before use.

Sanding

Allow Sandable Hard Gesso to dry completely before sanding. Cured acrylic films are easier to sand. Start with coarser grit sandpapers, followed by subsequently finer grits until desired smoothness is achieved. Both wet and dry sandpapers may be used. Sanding to a glossy (polished) surface can reduce mechanical adhesion of paint films. Upon completion of sanding, use a damp, soft cloth to remove sanding dust particles from the surface. Failure to do so can cause poor adhesion.

Dilution

Brushing: This product may be diluted with up to 20% water for ease of brush application.

Spraying

Dilute Sandable Hard Gesso with GOLDEN Airbrush Medium. Begin at a 2:1 ratio (Gesso:Medium) and test spray quality, as various spray equipment may require additional thinning. Further reduce viscosity by adding up to 20% water.

Acrylic Painting

To reduce yellowing caused by Support Induced Discoloration (S.I.D.) when painting on supports that contain water soluble impurities, such as canvas and wood panels, first apply two coats of Gloss Medium and allow to dry thoroughly. Then apply the desired number of coats of Sandable Hard Gesso.

Oil Painting

Apply oil paints to 2 or more coats of Sandable Hard Gesso. To protect canvas when adhered to rigid supports, from linseed oil acids, apply 2-3 coats of Acrylic Gesso directly on the raw canvas before the Sandable Hard Gesso. Allow the acrylic products sufficient time to cure before applying oil paints in order to maximize mechanical adhesion, typically 3 days after final layer.

Mixing With Other GOLDEN Products

GOLDEN Sandable Hard Gesso may be tinted up to 10% with GOLDEN Acrylic colors. Higher levels of paints reduce the sandability and absorbency of the product.