When it comes to the issue of what size canvas to paint on there are several schools of thought. Do I paint small or large? Do I paint small studies and then enlarge them? Do I just paint large from the start?
Well for me, at this stage in my painting world, I paint mostly on canvases sized 8 x 10. These are considered small size canvases.
Here are my top ten reasons why I like 8 x 10.
- Inexpensive blank canvas to buy. I generally buy these in a package of 12 for around $13. (I am frugal).
- Small storage/travel size. These take up less space to store the blank and also painted canvases. I paint plein air too, so these also take up less space in my backpack and pochade box.
- Uses less paint. The amount of paint needed is less than a large canvas. (I am cheap).
- Fast painting. I usually can paint an 8 x 10 in about 2 hours. This also lets me paint more canvases. The more you paint the better you get.
- Lower sale price. The lower sale price is attractive to buyers.
- lower shipping cost. This size fits in small shipping envelopes and boxes perfectly. I generally pay around $7 to ship anywhere in U.S. (I am cost conscious).
- Inexpensive frames. I have found small 8 x 10 frames at big box stores for around $4 to $5. They are simple yet functional and help protect the painting in shipping. Also lets the buyer hang the painting right away. (I am a bargain shopper).
- Easier for an impulse buy. The smaller size and price tag will allow for some impulse buying. It’s easier for a buyer to spend a smaller amount than put out a large chunk on an impulse buy. (we have all done that!)
- Takes up less wall space. Smaller paintings can fit on a wall space just about anywhere. There is always a spot for an 8 x 10.
- Easy to add more to make a grouping. This size makes an ideal grouping of 3 paintings. They also look good surrounding a larger painting. Buyers can buy more paintings.
Whatever size you chose to paint will be personal to you. Paint what you are comfortable with and good at. I do paint medium and larger paintings (16 x 20) as commissions, but my 8 x 10’s outnumber them.
As always
Paint…Relax…Repeat.
jeffreyjbowers