Oil paper to match your paint
Oil paper is easy to take with you for sketching in oil paint. Another benefit of using oil paper is that you can cut out pieces to frame or to use in collages, for example.
Oil paper has the same structure as a canvas, which gives it the same feel as working on canvas. A special external glue applied on the paper prevents the oil from soaking through the paper.
How to use
The paper is prepared, so you can work on it immediately. If necessary, a layer of (coloured) gesso can be applied to the paper. Gesso adds grip to the oil paint and it can be coloured by mixing it with a small amount of acrylic paint. Acrylic does not provide good grip for oil paint, so the ratio of acrylic to gesso always has to strongly favour the gesso.
Taking care of your paper/artwork
Just like working on canvas, a varnish can be applied after the work has completely dried (9-12 months). In the interim (after drying for about 6-9 months), it is possible to revive any discoloured areas using the Talens 004 Retouching Varnish. When working with thick layers of paint, it is wise to eventually glue the paper onto a hard surface. Oil paint becomes harder over time. On a firm surface, the paint has less chance of cracking (craquelure).
