Ten ways to create gesso rectangles

This not a hypothetical list, but one about making collages

Turns out, the solution to the “gesso rectangle problem” didn’t like in the materials, but in the technique. I won’t claim that I’m now painting perfect gesso rectangles, but they’re way better and the reason is that I simply slowed down and paid more attention. I’m mostly using stencils (see #3) but by not rushing and being slightly more deliberate, the work goes better. There’s probably some sort of metaphor there. Or maybe the subtext is just the text.

Go make some rectangles! Deliberately!

The Photo

Regular readers will recognise it from a list back in August. I don’t like to re-use images, but I wanted to show a “messy” gesso rectangle along with the list.

The List

1. The tape I have now that rips the paper a bit too much

2. Different tape that doesn’t rip the paper - testing required here

3. Stencils made from index cards or construction paper

4. Stencils made from freezer paper

5. Wax borders

6. Painting along rulers - lots of clean-up required here

7. Stencils cut from cardboard - less distortion than in index cards, prob

8. Stencils cut from linoleum - worth a try

9. Just paint it on without a guide.

10. Stencils made from mylar