|
Linda,
For what it's worth, another possible substitute to rabbitskin glue is refined carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). I have used this in the past and if I am not mistaken, some brands of acrylic 'gesso" contain this ingredient. This comes in powder form and can be used in a 10 percent solution. Stir in water, allow to swell, stir again and apply to the canvas. The effect is very similar to the animal glue in that it stiffens the cloth, but unlike glue size ( I have read), it will not crack. It is flexible and resistant to the oils.
I have also used the alkyd primer mentioned above with good results.
I also prefer to prepare my own supports as this serves as a sort of warm-up to the work itself, aside from the advantage of controlling the surface one wants. But, I do have a problem with the cloth sticking to the stretcher (along the edges) when the glue size seeps through to the wood...the problem being of course if and when I have to remove from the stretcher to roll the canvas for sending off in a tube. Any suggestions?
Carlos
|