I have two options:
1) Foam posterboard
2) Masonite.
The foam board is light, cheap, and has the perfect pure white glossy surface for painting on with acrylics.
Masonite is more conventional and is supposed to be better than foam board for painting on and I'm willing to bet it is. But, it's heavier and probably a lot more pricey than foam. It's supposed to be more durable and permanent, but it also requires more prepping.
Canvas is nice but out of the question. Too inconvenient and takes too much prepping. And it's harder to frame and transport.
Has anyone ever used masonite? Is it worth it to upgrade? My goal is to paint a portrait for a friend for their birthday. Should I be worried about the foam board being flimsy or corroding? Is it a good idea to spray it with fixative or clear coat before I begin? I was thinking I'd make the sketch straight onto a foam board, clear coat it, paint over it, then varnish it. Can a foam board take that? Good idea? Bad idea? Is masonite my only choice for something like this?
Any insight is appreciated.
Posts
http://forums.penny-arcade.com/showthread.php?t=7934
do use the q+a thread next time
Are you sure masonite is harder to transport? Doesn't seem like it would be. I'll check it out though.
but if you want to try it go ahead. it will bend, absord too much, buckle...plus its weak. bad news.