Frequently Asked Questions

Splined Canvas

• What is splined canvas?
• Why is Art Alternatives canvas splined?

Gesso

• When I purchased my Art Alternatives Gesso it did not have a bad odor, but now it does. Why is this?
• The gesso I applied to my canvas is cracking. How do I avoid this?
• Can your gesso be used to create texture without cracking occurring on the canvas?
• I've heard that PVA in gesso may cause paint to peel, crack or flake off a canvas. Does Art Alternatives Gesso contain PVA?

Lead Pointer

• How do I use a lead pointer? How do I sharpen the lead?

Linen Canvas

• Why must an additional ground be added on the Linen Canvas for use with oil or any media other than acrylic?

Canvas Issues

• What is canvas weight and why does it matter?
• Why would I want to re-stretch a canvas?
• Why is my canvas warped? How do I fix a warped canvas?
• The stretched bars on my Economy canvas have slots in the corner, why?

Children's Easel Whiteboard

• How do I remove ghost marks from the whiteboard on the Children's Easel?

Pen & Ink No-Shellac India Black Ink

• Can I use No-Shellac India Black Ink in my good fountain pen?