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There are many materials that can be used as a support, but the pet portrait artist has to consider what will be the best material to give his or her painting longevity. Much will depend on the type of paint being used, oil and acrylic tend to be a more flexible medium so can be applied with reasonable confidence on fabrics that have been properly prepared. More brittle mediums such as tempera, gouache or pastel, require a more rigid support such as prepared boards. All the same, no support is guaranteed and all are altered by the effects of the atmosphere and chemical changes over time, the craft of the artist is to make sure they use the proper support for the medium they use and if done correctly can produce a picture that will last for thousands of years.

Here is a list of the most suitable types of support for painting.

Processed wood
The most stable of the processed woods and arguably the best support for the artist, is MDF (Medium Density Fibre Board). This is stronger and more stable than other processed woods and so is less likely to warp. The surface is quite smooth though does take ground preparations well.

Natural Wood
Natural wood has been used for centuries in painting, but it does have to be well seasoned. Suitable examples will show straight close growth rings which where possible are aligned across its thickness. Wood with knots and sap wood should be avoided. As a general rule hardwood make a better support than softwoods

Linen
Linen is the best textile for painting, it is strong and durable and, if well made, offers a smooth surface with a fine weave.

Cotton
Cotton is not nearly as costly as linen and much easier to come by, although it doesn’t have the durability of linen. The better cloths are heavy (10oz or more) have a close weave and few stubs or knots.

Paper and card
Paper is an ancient product that has it’s origins in China. It is made from vegetable fibres matted together to form a sheet. Western paper was originally formed from linen waste (known as rags) but when cotton came into general use, cotton rags came into use. Well made papers, using good materials, will last a very long time, but can be easily damaged. In painting it is tends to be used as a ground for water colour, gouache, tempera, pastel and acrylics. Though, if heavily sized, can be used for oil colours. If papers are expected to last they must be acid-free.

Stone
A few types of stone that have been tried as painting supports. Some fine examples have survived from the renaissance. Slate is an obvious choice as it comes in sheet form, but other materials such as marble and onyx may provide more interesting backgrounds that can also be utilised. Stone with a surface that does not absorb paint can be used without preperation, though it is advisable to wipe down with white spirit before you start.

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