What’s the difference between Matte Medium Vs Gesso?
Matte Medium is more of a liquid acrylic painting medium while Gesso is specifically designed as a ground preparation coating. I’ve been searching for a way to watercolor in adult coloring books, and I’ve tried various methods like clear Gesso. However, most of them tend to go on thicker than I prefer. But with this Matte Medium, although it initially wrinkles the page upon application, it magically smooths out once it dries.
- Matte Medium Vs Gesso: Specs & Uses
- My Hands-on Test: Acrylic Paint Matte Medium
- My Hands-on Test: Gesso
Matte Medium Vs Gesso: Specs & Uses
⏰Sandability
Matte Medium: Not sandable.
Gesso: Can be wet sanded.
🆚Oil paint use
Glue-All: Settling of matting agents can occur. Should be stirred before use.
Gesso: Can be tinted with acrylics. Can be diluted for spraying.
🛠️Common Uses
Matte Medium achieves a clear and transparent finish when drying, ideal for preserving the underlying colors and details of your fabric or canvas image; lighten dark areas on your artwork; use on fabric, as it forms a plastic-like layer that cannot be washed out.
Gesso is suitable for applying oil paints as an underlayer; provide a coating before using watercolor paint, as most canvases already have a gesso coating.
Technical Info
My Hands-on Test: Acrylic Paint Matte Medium
✅Pros: 100% Acrylic Polymer Emulsion With Matting Agent
When I use the glazing liquid, I simply drop a small amount into various paints on my palette. You’d be surprised how little you need to extend the drying time of the paint. This feature has been incredibly helpful, especially when working with acrylics. Of course, when it comes to watercolors, drying time is not a concern, but that’s a whole different story!
Versatility
Another great thing I’ve noticed about Matte Medium is its versatility. When I use it as a base on coloring books, it doesn’t give the paper a rough texture, which is perfect for using alcohol markers and adding pencil shading. The smooth surface makes shading so much easier and enjoyable, without putting too much strain on my hands.
Transparent “Wash/aging” Effect
It’s perfect for creating the thin and transparent “wash/aging” effect that I’ve always wanted to achieve. I simply mix a tiny bit of my wash color with the glazing liquid, usually burnt umber, and brush it over my base painting. The result is simply stunning.
❌Cons: Matte Medium
Works well but use for ornamental pieces that won’t be touched or used.it is not durable enough for items that get everyday use.
FAQ: Matte Medium
Q: What sets this product apart from the regular Golden Matte Medium?
A: Unlike the regular matte medium, this product has a similar consistency to acrylic paints. It is more fluid and doesn’t add much texture. The regular matte medium, on the other hand, needs to be mixed with water to achieve a smooth surface without texture. I find myself using the fluid version more frequently than the regular one.
Q: Will this medium wash out of fabric?
A: Since this medium is primarily composed of plastic, it won’t wash out of fabric. However, if it doesn’t penetrate the fabric’s weave and remains on the surface, there’s a chance you can peel it off with some effort.
Q: Does the Golden fluid matte medium level itself when applied? Will it leave streaks or brush marks?
A: This Golden fluid matte medium should be applied in thin coats. Based on my experience, it doesn’t leave streaks. I usually apply two thin coats to ensure a smooth finish.
Q: Can this medium be used to thin silicone paint?
A: No, this medium is not suitable for thinning silicone paint. It is specifically designed as a water-based acrylic medium.
Q: Is it possible to use this medium without acrylic reborn paint?
A: Yes, you can use this medium independently of acrylic reborn paint.
Q: Can Golden fluid matte medium be used for transferring photos onto a painted acrylic surface?
A: Technically, yes. We initially bought it for this purpose, and it does transfer the image effectively. However, removing the paper residue afterward can be quite time-consuming. Using a different type of paper might yield better results. Nonetheless, it’s a fantastic medium and we also use it for painting.
Q: Does this medium dry transparent and can it be used as a clear primer for birch panels?
A: I haven’t personally tested it on birch panels, but it does dry clear. It’s crucial to apply it evenly for a smooth and consistent coating.
Q: Can Golden fluid matte medium be used for pouring art?
A: Absolutely! We actually use it for pouring art 🙂
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My Hands-on Test: Gesso
✅Pros: Gesso
Gesso is a versatile art supply, and I’ve been exploring new art ideas with it.
Jar
Speaking of the jar, let me describe the gesso itself. It has a creamy and buttery texture that spreads effortlessly. The coverage is excellent, and I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly it went on. Once dry, it created a thick and durable coating on canvases, protecting them from any damage.
Works With Acrylic Paints
One of the things I love about this gesso is how well it works with acrylic paints. It’s medium consistency, dries nicely without becoming sticky, and doesn’t clump like some other brands I’ve tried. Plus, it doesn’t have that strong odor that other gessos tend to have. The Golden gesso truly stands out.
❌Cons: Gesso
The coverage is exceptional, and it can hide almost anything. However, I did find that it struggled to cover sharpie marker ink. I had drawn a picture on an old record using sharpie, but unfortunately, I made a mistake. I applied the gesso three times, but the sharpie marks were still visible. So, if you’re looking to cover up sharpie, you might encounter some difficulties. But apart from that, it does a fantastic job of concealing old paintings.
FAQ: Gesso
Q: Can I apply oil paints underneath?
A: Certainly, it is permissible to use oil paints as an underlayer.
Q: After opening a jar of golden gesso for acrylics, I noticed a yellow liquid on top. I mixed it in but am hesitant to use it. Any idea what might be wrong?
A: It appears that the gesso has separated. Normally, I would suggest thoroughly stirring it and proceeding with its use. However, the fact that it contained a yellow liquid raises some concerns. I recommend creating a test piece and observing it for a while.
Q: Does this gesso come in white?
A: Yes, it works excellently. I switched to the 16oz bottle because I rapidly depleted the 8oz one. It is a fantastic product.
Q: Can I apply acrylic golden gesso on canvas before using watercolor paint?
A: Most canvases already have a gesso coating. If your paint adheres to a canvas with a pre-existing coating, it should work without any issues.
Q: Does the texture of this gesso feel gritty or smooth?
A: It has a smooth texture.
Q: I have regular gesso, what distinguishes it from this product?
A: I’m unsure what you mean by “regular” gesso. I assume it’s another brand. Personally, I prefer Golden Gesso for all my gallery works. It offers a smoother, thicker, and whiter consistency, providing better coverage with fewer visible brush strokes. I wouldn’t choose any other brand.
Q: Is this product acid-free and safe for archival purposes?
A: I have been using this product for many years and have been extremely satisfied with it. Gesso functions as a primer, preparing the surface for subsequent applications. Golden has an excellent website for any inquiries, and their customer service is exceptional. However, I am unsure about your specific usage of gesso.
I’m Ronald Stevens, a Mechanical Engineer obsessed with adhesives, glue, and all things sticky! My passion began in childhood when I’d always be the one playing with glue during arts and crafts. And I’d spend hours researching and experimenting. Happy reading, and remember: stick with the best, and you’ll never be stuck in a mess!
Feel free to contact me and join our discussion:
If the image on my paper has white areas, will the color of the fabric/canvas underneath be visible? Essentially, does the medium become transparent when it dries?
In my experience, Golden offers the clearest matte mediums, with their satin medium being even clearer. Personally, I would be more concerned about using matte medium to lighten the darker areas. The satin medium may initially appear cloudy and lighten the dark parts, but it will eventually dry clear.
Could I utilize golden gesso to enhance the brightness of a large, dark frame?
I would advise against it. Gesso consists mainly of gypsum mixed with a polymer glue, resulting in a flat and matte finish. To achieve your desired finish, such as gloss or matte, it would be better to use actual paint or spray paint.