Canvas for Acrylic Painting: How to Buy Canvas Based on Types, Textures and Weights — Art is Fun

Canvas is generally made from either linen or cotton, natural fibers that are woven together and then stretched over a frame or glued to a panel. Each fiber comes in different textures or weights.

The texture depends on the weave, so a finely woven canvas is smooth and best suited to small, detailed works. A rough texture is preferred by painters who like bold brushstrokes and larger paintings.

The weight is dependent on the thread density and is measured in ounces per yard. The higher the weight, the better the quality. Try to avoid canvases with weights lower than 8-10 oz.

Linen is the best of the best and expensive. If you care about permanence and don’t mind paying for it, there is no better option if you want the best canvas for acrylic painting. On the other hand you can save some money by using a high-quality cotton duck canvas, which should weigh between 12-15 oz. It’s cheaper than linen, but is still a suitable choice for permanent paintings.

Now, lets take a look at the four main ways you can use canvas as a painting surface: Stretched Canvas, Canvas Rolls, Canvas Panels, and Canvas Pads.