Ampersand Gessobord – Smooth & Archival Panels for Professional Painting

When it comes to painting panels, artists often look for a surface that’s versatile, reliable, and ready to use right out of the box. Ampersand Gessobord is one of those panels that has earned a strong reputation in the U.S. art market. Designed for oils, acrylics, alkyds, and mixed media, it combines durability with a professional finish — making it a popular choice for both studio and plein air work.

What Makes Ampersand Gessobord Stand Out?

The first thing you notice about Ampersand Gessobord is the quality of its surface. But there’s more going on under the hood than meets the eye.

A Surface Ready for Anything

This panel comes pre-primed with a professional-quality, acid-free Titanium White acrylic gesso ground. That means no extra prep work is needed — just unwrap it and start painting. The gesso provides excellent tooth and absorbency for smooth paint application, whether you’re glazing, brushing, using a palette knife, or experimenting with collage and masking techniques.

Perfectly Balanced Absorbency

One of the Gessobord’s defining features is its carefully adjusted absorbency level. This balance makes it easy to create delicate effects with glazing while still offering enough grip for more textured, impasto techniques.

A Bright White Finish

The bright white surface ensures the truest possible color clarity. Colors stay vibrant and accurate, so what you see while painting is closer to how the final piece will look.

Built to Last

For many artists, longevity matters just as much as performance. Ampersand Gessobord has incorporated features that ensure your work will stand the test of time.

Archiva-Seal Technology

This proprietary formula acts as a protective barrier, preventing discoloration and yellowing over time. It’s especially important for artists who want their work to retain its original look for decades.

High-Density Aspen Wood Fibers

The core of the panel is made from true high-density Aspen wood fibers. There’s no formaldehyde or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), giving you a stable, eco-friendly base that won’t warp or deteriorate easily.

Artist Experience with Ampersand Gessobord

Artist Likes

• Smooth and durable surface that allows fine details to pop without effort.
• Pre-gessoed finish that saves time and gets you painting faster.
• Oil paint glides beautifully for both fine work and bold strokes.
• Subtly toothed surface that holds just enough pigment without feeling rough.

Artist Dislikes

• Thick acrylic layers may dry too fast, making blending tricky.
• Packaging could be better — some artists report dented or damaged corners after shipping.
• Those who prefer traditional canvas texture may find the panel too smooth.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying

While the Gessobord works for a wide range of mediums, the paint’s viscosity can affect results. Thicker paints may dry quickly on the surface, limiting blending time, while thinner paints may sink in more than expected. And if you’re ordering online, it’s worth buying from a seller with a strong track record for careful packaging to avoid corner damage.

Where to Buy Ampersand Gessobord

You can find the Gessobord at Blick Art Materials, which carries multiple sizes and formats for different painting styles.

Amazon also stocks both single panels and multi-packs, often with fast shipping options.

For the best condition, buying in-store lets you inspect the panel before purchase, but trusted online sellers usually deliver without issues.

Final Considerations

Like any art surface, the Ampersand Gessobord isn’t perfect for every artist or every technique. But for many, it offers a reliable, professional-quality option that’s ready to go straight from the package. With its renewable wood construction, Archiva-Seal protection, and bright, toothy surface, it’s built for artists who value both performance and longevity. Whether you’re creating fine details in oils or layering mixed media textures, the Gessobord is a panel you can count on to keep your work looking its best for years.

Frequently Asked Questions on Ampersand Gessobord

Q: Do I need to prime the Gessobord before painting?

A: No, it comes pre-primed with a professional acrylic gesso. You can start painting immediately.

Q: Can I use watercolors on it?

A: While it’s designed for oils, acrylics, and alkyds, you can use water-based media if you prepare the surface with the right ground for watercolor.

Q: How does it compare to canvas?

A: The Gessobord is smoother and more rigid than traditional canvas. Some artists prefer it for fine detail work, while others miss the natural texture of canvas.

Q: Will it warp over time?

A: No, the high-density Aspen wood fiberboard is very stable and resistant to warping under normal studio conditions.

Q: Is it archival?

A: Yes. With Archiva-Seal technology and acid-free materials, it’s designed to keep your artwork safe from discoloration and deterioration for many years.