Oil on Copper Panels

This may be a pricier choice, but I did not want to have to bother with mounting the copper panels onto a firm backing. So I am using copper panels from Natural Pigments. They arrive already mounted and ready to use! Artefex also makes really nice mounted panels and has regular sales for members.

https://www.naturalpigments.com/copper-artist-panel-natural.html

https://artefex.biz/product/copper-artist-panel/

I am using fine sand paper to create tooth on the panels, followed by garlic juice which apparently reacts with the copper and helps the oil grab a hold. We'll see! Here is a great description I found on how to prepare the copper panels for painting:

https://realismtoday.com/how-to-painting-on-copper-materials-methods-artists/

Admittedly I still don't have a feel for this concept but apparently the recommendation is to add more oil the more layers you do to avoid cracking, and use turpentine or mineral spirits in the first layers and linseed oil in the later layers. After trying a couple different approaches, I decided to use Gamblin Solvent Free Fluid as a medium to avoid harmful fumes, and to just be patient for the increased drying time.

The best advice I have found so far is to use Murphy's Oil Soap to wash paint brushes immediately after use, and then follow up with regular soap and water. It works quite well and my paint brushes stay nice and soft and are always ready.

Again, Realism Today has some great suggestions as to how to seal the copper so it does not oxidize. One is to use Oleogel from Natural Pigments to creat a clear couch to paint on while sealing the copper at the same time. Otherwise, I read that Conservar Acrylic Varnish is specifically formulated to be applied over copper to protect it from oxidation, especially in areas where the copper panel is not covered by paint.

My favorite frames for displaying painted copper panels are sold by Web Picture Frames (link below). They are nice and shallow and come with velcro for easy attachment and also hanging hardware.

https://www.webpictureframes.com/catalog3/264/canvas-board-frames.html