question about stippling

[mark]

ok i know that ET is not a good medium for imposto but when i stipple it leaves little raised bumpes so is that bad or is my gesso not absorbent enough?? does anyone else stipple or does everyone just crosshatch?

[RobM]

Mark,
I use all sorts of techniques, stippling, spongeing etc. I do get a build up of paint and quite lumpy at times. It is best to try to keep the layers thin as in depth and build them up. Small raised bumps are OK. I know of a UK artist who does apply the paint quite thickly, verging on impasto, the paint dries with small burst bubbles and cracking which she uses to effect although I have seen some of her paintings where the paint has actually fallen off. If your raised bumps show no sign of burst bubbles or cracking within a few months I would not be concerned. If they do and you are not happy with the effect then just scrape the paint back with a scalpel and add further layers.
Rob

[mark]

thank you very much, i got to say this has to be the greatest site i know, i learn so many helpful hints. with a medium like this its good to know there is people out there who want to help. thanks again