How to Use Gesso to Make Photos Look Like Oil Paintings
- 1). Select a wood panel or prepared canvas that is slightly smaller than the photo you will use for the project. Trim the white edge around the photo so that the color printing extends all the way to the edge. Turn the photo upside-down and place the canvas or wood panel on it. Mark the edge of the canvas on the back of the photo with a pencil. Trim the photo along these lines. The edge of the photo should line up exactly with the edge of the canvas.
- 2). Apply decoupage glue or a similar adhesive craft product to the back of the photo. Turn the photo over and place it on the canvas or wood panel. Press gently from the middle of the photo outward to remove wrinkles or bubbles. Allow to dry.
- 3). Mix one part acrylic gesso with three to four parts water, forming a thin, semi-transparent solution. Paint the photo with this solution, working slowly and using short strokes following the natural lines of the images. Use a smaller brush for detailed areas and a larger brush for broad areas. Do not paint over areas you have previously painted unless they are dry. Allow to dry. Coat the final image with a thin coat of decoupage glue, which will provide a clear, durable coating.
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