Cover the staples on your canvas with gesso.
Artists use staples to attach a canvas to stretcher bars when it is being stretched out in preparation for painting. The staples run along the sides or back edges of the canvas. Staples will often protrude from the surface of the canvas, creating a distraction from the artwork. Hide the staples on your canvas by covering them with gesso. Gesso is a generic term for a canvas primer that is thick and white. You can find it at most art supply stores.
Instructions
1. Open the can of gesso and stir it using a paint stick. Pour some gesso into a small plastic container.
2. Add water to the gesso in the plastic container according to the directions on the label. Stir the water into the gesso with the paint stick. Scrape the excess gesso off the paint stick by pulling it against the side of the container. Set the paint stick aside.
3. Lay your canvas flat on a smooth, clean work surface with the stapled side facing upward. Dip a paintbrush into the gesso and begin painting over the staples. Use long, even brush strokes when applying the gesso. Make all your strokes in the same direction.
4. Cover the plastic container of gesso with plastic wrap if there is any remaining after entirely coating the staples. Wash your paintbrush immediately in warm soapy water to prevent the gesso from drying on the bristles. Reform your brush and let it sit to dry. Allow the canvas to sit for at least 1 hour so the gesso can dry.
5. Rub fine sandpaper lightly over the coat of gesso to smooth it. Run a cloth over the sides to remove excess dust and debris from sanding.
6. Uncover the plastic container of gesso and dip your brush into the mixture. Paint a second coat on the stapled sides, this time brushing strokes in the opposite direction. Apply an even coat, heavy enough to completely cover any portion of the staples that are still showing.
7. Wash out your brush and dispose of any excess gesso in the trash. Let your canvas sit overnight to allow the gesso to dry. Leave the canvas flat while it dries to ensure that the gesso coat stays even and doesn't run.
