Tip: Oil Painting on Paper

You can paint with oils on paper if the paper is relatively stiff and non-porous. Paper is easily transported and stored; it is an inexpensive alternative to other supports. Paper is even durable if it is made from fibers that are resilient and strong (such as, cotton, hemp or linen).

Fixatives, acrylic mediums, or rabbit skin glue can be applied to paper to seal the surface and make it non-porous. Shellac works especially well because it is not water-based and will not warp or buckle the paper. If the paper is not sealed the oil from the paints will leach through and discolor it. Over time, the integrity of the paper may also be effected as acids are released from oil when it dries.

The greater challenge may be making the paper rigid enough to keep the dried oil paint from cracking. This is the same problem we see with canvas. When oil paints are fully dry they are still flexible, but only to a point. Any support that moves more than 1-2% will inevitably crack the paint film. So start with the heaviest paper you can afford, sizing both sides of each sheet with 2-3 coats of gesso to stabilize it.

Finally, remember that oil paints do not have to be applied thickly. When mixed with turpentine or medium oil paints handle almost like watercolor. Thin washes of oil paint can be applied to prepared paper without concern for cracking.