How to Get Gesso Out of Clothes
Gesso, an artist's primer for acrylic and oil paints, is a necessity when painting on canvas. The thin, slightly chalky material is usually water-based and dries quickly to a hard, textured surface suitable for painting.
You should wear a smock or old clothing when using gesso, because it can be difficult to remove once it dries. If you do get gesso on your clothes, the most important thing is to act quickly -- it can be cleaned, but not if you wait too long.
Things You Will Need
- White vinegar
- Pumice soap
- Sponge
- Toothbrush
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Rinse the gesso spot under running water as soon as you notice it. If it's very fresh, this may be all it takes to clean it.
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Apply a small amount of pumice soap to any remaining gesso spot and gently rub it with a clean sponge. If it's a delicate fabric, test an inconspicuous area first. Rinse thoroughly.
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Soak the spot in undiluted white vinegar if the spot persists. Depending on how set the gesso is, it may take a few minutes or it may take an hour or more. As the gesso dissolves, rub the spot lightly with an old toothbrush, then rinse.
Tip
Keep disposable moist towelettes on hand while using gesso to quick-clean drips.
Warning
Most modern gesso is water-based acrylic. If you are using an oil-based gesso, do not rinse it in water. Rinse it in denatured alcohol, and use a paint thinner to remove it, but be aware that oil paint and removers can easily damage clothing.
The Drip Cap
- Gesso, an artist's primer for acrylic and oil paints, is a necessity when painting on canvas.
- If you do get gesso on your clothes, the most important thing is to act quickly -- it can be cleaned, but not if you wait too long.
- Rinse the gesso spot under running water as soon as you notice it.
References
Writer Bio
Delaware-based Daisy Cuinn has been writing professionally since 1997, when she became the features editor for her local biweekly music newspaper. She has been a staff writer and contributor to online and offline magazines, including "What It Is!," Celebrations.com and Slashfood. Cuinn holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Temple University.
Photo Credits
- Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
- Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
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