Liquitex 104016 BASICS Gesso Surface Prep Medium, 16-oz

Liquitex BASICS Gesso Surface Prep Medium is a value acrylic primer formulated to prepare painting surfaces for artwork. It provides the essential base coat needed before applying paint, making it a staple supply for students, educators, and hobbyists working on fresh canvases or boards.

This medium creates a receptive ground suitable for both acrylic and oil paint. Because one coat is usually all that is required, surface preparation requires less repetitive layering. It also offers flexible creative use, as it is fully intermixable with Liquitex Professional Acrylic Paint Colors and Mediums.

Packaged in a 16-oz (473ml) bottle, this gesso meets ASTM D4236 safety standards and is certified safe for educational use. While it is formulated as a value primer, the product listing does not state specific drying times or recommended surface types beyond standard painting supports.

Verdict: Liquitex BASICS Gesso is a solid, straightforward choice for artists and classrooms needing a reliable primer for acrylic or oil paints. It delivers efficient single-coat preparation and certified safety in a standard 16-ounce size.

A great fit if you:

• Need a safe, certified primer for classroom or school art projects
• Want an acrylic ground that works with both oil and acrylic paints
• Plan to mix your primer with Liquitex Professional paints and mediums
• Prefer a primer where one coat is usually enough coverage

Consider something else if you:

• Need detailed technical specifications like exact drying times before purchasing
• Require a specialized primer outside the acrylic gesso category

Can this gesso be used under oil paint?
Yes, it is formulated to prepare painting surfaces for both oil paint and acrylic paint.

How much gesso is included in the container?
The product comes in a 16-oz (473ml) bottle.

Is this product safe for classroom use?
Yes, it conforms to ASTM D4236 and is safe for educational use.