I’m using an acrylic primer to prime an MDF panel for subsequent (possible) acrylic underpainting, then ultimately oil painting. I’ve previously had problems with such surfaces “grabbing” the brush, making it almost impossible to blend paint nicely, as well as the paint drying out very fast/oil colors sinking in. I’ve heard two different bits of advice:Use PVA to seal the primer by applying a thin layer. Use egg white, spreading it thinly and allowing to dry before painting.
I’ve tried acrylic medium before, but I found that it didn’t improve the brushability all that much, it still has a certain “grab” to it.
Would either choice be better? Also, would the same advice hold for flexible support?
I have found that the smooth surface of a Aluminium Composite Panel (coal coated with a white polyester finish) is smooth and slick so perhaps it is the MDF is not smooth enough, or there is a smoother finish with a sprayed application of primer?
I would normally suggest either adding additional acrylic medium to the ground or applying an additional size layer on top of the ground. I can see no advantage to using PVA but this could be done. I would not have thought of using glair for this purpose. It will become slightly grey, become more brittle, and insoluble over time but this is not a huge issue if it is covered with oil paint and the work is on panel. There is far less of a lipid component in white as compared to yolk and therefore the migration of free fatty acids is less likely. I would not use egg white on unrestrained fabric substrates.
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