<< Does anyone use an alternative sizing method that will
allow multiple coatings without staining? >>
I have used Gesso sizing with very good results. The "secret" is to not get
the sizing either too thick or too thin. Too thick and the pigment has a
tendency to wash off completely, too thin and it will stain. Also it is very
important to get the gesso to coat evenly.
Here is my method. I diluted Gesso with about about 25% water, applied the
gesso with a foam brush. Then wiped the paper with a clean dry cloth.
Holding the paper up with a light shining through it, you shouldn't see much
variation in the Gesso coating.
I would then run a test on the paper a couple of hours later. If it coated
and washed OK, I would coat the rest of the paper, if not I would adjust the
dilution of the Gesso. After a while you can get a feel for how thick the
coat needs to be when viewing the paper with transmitted light.
If the Gesso is a little too thick sometimes the first coat will wash off too
quickly but after that it seems to develop a tooth. Also I have found that I
use more exposure with gesso sizing then gelatin sizing.
Gesso sized prints will stand up to much more vigorous brushing in the wash
without damaging the sizing for subsequent coats.
Bernie
Bernard Boudreau