Knowing what to paint on is key to getting the most out of your artwork. No matter your skill level, it’s important to know what options you’ve got for the different mediums out there. We’ve got loads of supplies so you can find the best surface to suit your next (or first) project. Let’s take a closer look at what’s available and how to know which one to pick!
1. Using canvas
Canvases are a go-to for many painters, as they’re compatible with lots of popular mediums including oil, acrylic, and mixed media. They have a modern finish, seamlessly stretched over different pine frame shapes and sizes. This means they’re pretty much ready to display as soon as the paint’s dry!
Single Thick Canvases: These canvases are an affordable option for creators looking for a reliable surface. They’re made from 280gsm cotton canvas and are primed with acrylic titanium for excellent durability. Single thick just means the pine frame is about half the size of a double thick canvas, so it will sit more flush to the wall and is lightweight. We have Discovery, Signature, and Premium options available, so there’s a variety of price points for beginners and pros alike. Discovery is a great fit for students and classrooms, Signature suits those looking to get better at what they do, and Premium is ideal for levelling up your supplies.
Double Thick Canvases: If you're looking for a deeper frame, our Double Thick options offer a 340-380gsm high-density weave cotton canvas stretched over a pine frame up to 4cm thick. You can pick them up in both Signature and Premium Product Levels so you can find the right fit for your budget. Your finished art will stand out more from the wall once displayed for a modern look. Plus, the thicker frame and high-density weave make these canvases more durable, robust, and textured for flexible creating.
Canvas Shapes: If traditional shapes and sizes aren’t your style, we have fun designs you can choose from! Explore heart, circle, and oval canvases in a range of sizes to fit your vision. They’re made from 380gsm cotton duck canvas stretched over a sturdy MDF wooden frame, so you can explore acrylics, oils, and mixed media on a reliable surface.
If you’re looking for a portable canvas solution, check out our canvas panels and pads. They’re super lightweight, made for easy transport and display.
Fluid Art Panels: As the name suggests, these framed canvases are ideal for fluid art. The stretched canvas is bordered by a sturdy frame to prevent your art warping as the thick layers of paint dry. Plus, it’s a cute finishing touch as it’s pre-framed and ready to display for a modern look!
2. Artwork on paper
When it comes to painting on paper, you can’t just pick a run-of-the-mill pad. You need something made to withstand wet media, without disintegrating or pilling when exposed to moisture. Here are some of our recommendations, so you can travel and paint with ease.
Watercolour Pads & Paper: Designed to handle water-based mediums like watercolours, gouache, and inks, these papers come in a variety of gsm and size options. The textured surface is made to absorb pigment just right for vibrant artwork, so you have the best control over the medium. Watercolour Blocks are gummed on all edges so that when your paints are drying, the paper won’t warp or buckle. Once dry, simply stick a palette knife between the papers and run around the edge to separate.
Acrylic and Oil Pads: Mont Marte also has specially designed pads for acrylic and oil paints. These pads are packed with 350gsm paper sheets, so your paint keys well to the textured, primed surface. The paper weight is great for withstanding thicker coats of paint, helping to prevent warping and bleed through! Pick it up in both A4 and A3 sizes depending on the project size you’re working with.
Mixed Media Pads: Ideal if you work across different mediums, these pads can handle everything from light washes of watercolour to acrylic paint designs. The 300gsm paper is made to work with loads of mediums so you can mix media and experiment with techniques! It’s a studio favourite here at Mont Marte HQ – we love the versatility.
3. Wood Panels: Sturdy and Versatile
Looking for a more durable and solid surface? Our Mont Marte Painting Board collection is a great alternative to canvas for oils, gouache, acrylics, pouring, and mixed media creations. Choose from square, rectangular, and round shapes and sizes to fit your project needs.
These panels are especially popular with pouring and spin art as the wood is inflexible and resists warping even under thick layers of paint. They’re also great for exploring texture, as you can lay the paint on nice and thick.
Well now you know all the painting surfaces on offer, it’s time to get painting! We wanna see what you create, so #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook. We’re excited to see what you come up with.
Looking for more lessons and techniques? Explore our Tips & Techniques collection, or else browse Projects for your next big idea.
To stay up-to-date with the latest projects, inspo, tips, and tricks, join our Creative Connection community by signing up down below.
