With over 100 years of experience in crafting the finest artist quality canvases, Claessens is recognised worldwide as a leader in the field. Each Claessens canvas undergoes a rigorous treatment and process to meet different requirements for artists.

First, all raw canvases are sized with a synthetic PVA glue. For oil primed canvases, the next step involves applying a primer of zinc white paint bound with linseed oil to the glued linen, by means of two knives. The canvas is then put into a drying room for three days where it air-dries naturally.

After this first initial drying time, the canvas is then sanded and a coating layer based on titanium white is applied to the canvas by means of two knives and a roller. The canvas is then placed in the drying room for another ten days.

Claessens' Oil Primed Canvases are suitable for oil paint.

For a full description of the various processes which go into manufacturing a Claessens canvas, click here

Please note: the oil prepared cloths are finished with 2 layers of oil paint based on linseed oil. Linseed oil tends to turn yellow in the dark: for example on the roll or when another object is placed against it. However, if you put it back in the light, any discolouration will disappear. This is a known and normal phenomenon. This does not prevent painting on the canvas, it only has an optical effect.