The Best Surfaces to Use for Mixed Media Art

by stacy spangler
ChatGP1. 
One of the questions I frequently receive from artists exploring mixed media is about the type of substrate that I use for my really textured artwork. A substrate is simply a fancy art term referring to the surface on which you create your art, and with mixed media, there are a wide range of options. Mixed media art is all about creative freedom—layering paint, paper, fabric, and other materials to make something completely unique. But with all those elements, the surface (or substrate) you work on becomes incredibly important, and my art has A LOT of texture elements (read more about texture  here and here), so my substrate needs to handle everything from wet mediums like paint and ink to heavier materials like texture paste and collage elements. Here’s the top two things that I consider when picking one for a mixed media project that has lots of texture, layers and a variety of wet mediums.
     First, If I'm using a lot of wet media (like acrylics and inks), I pick a substrate that can hold up under the moisture. Sturdier options like canvas or wood panels are great choices for handling layers and texture without warping. Also, a more rigid surface helps with getting the layers down with out bubbles or peeling edges.

Next, I consider durability. Mixed media art can get heavy, especially with added elements like fabric, paper, or embellishments. Choose a substrate that’s strong enough to support your layers. Wood panels and thick watercolor paper (300 lb) are ideal for heavier pieces, while canvas or canvas boards can offer a lighter but durable option.

So what are my favorites? You can learn more on my You Tube channel HERE, but here's my most frequently used substrates.

My go-to is a cradled wood panel. They provide a strong, rigid surface that’s perfect for intricate details and heavier mixed media projects.

  • Stability: Unlike stretched canvas, wood panels don’t stretch or warp, making them perfect for adding heavier layers like fabric, thick texture paste, or even 3D elements.
  • Smooth Surface: The smoothness of wood panels allows for fine detail work with ink, pencil, or thin layers of paint.
  • Sanding Options: If you want to adjust the texture, wood panels can be sanded to achieve a different finish.

Wood panels are excellent for artists looking for a sturdy, long-lasting substrate that can handle anything from delicate designs to bold, heavy layers.

Watercolor paper is another great option for mixed media, especially for more fluid mediums like watercolors, inks, or thin acrylics.

  • Absorbency: The paper is designed to hold water and ink, making it perfect for light washes and blending techniques.
  • Texture Options: Watercolor paper comes in different textures—hot press (smooth), cold press (slightly textured), and rough (very textured)—giving you options based on your style.
  • Portability: It’s lightweight, making it a great choice for artists on the go.

However, watercolor paper may not be strong enough to handle heavy layers of materials, so it’s best used for projects that don’t involve bulky elements or thick mediums.

Specifically designed for mixed media art, mixed media paper is thicker than regular drawing paper and can handle a variety of media.

  • Versatility: It’s created to work with both wet and dry mediums, so you can switch between acrylics, pastels, ink, and more without damaging the surface.
  • Affordable: It’s a great option if you’re just getting started or want to experiment with different techniques without the commitment of more expensive surfaces.
  • Variety of Sizes: Available in sketchbook form or loose sheets, mixed media paper is flexible for different project types.

While it’s a solid choice for beginners or light projects, this paper may not hold up well under very heavy layers or materials.

For eco-conscious artists or those looking to experiment, cardboard and other recycled materials offer unique and affordable substrates. See my video HERE for more about creating on these surfaces.

  • Cost-Effective: Recycled surfaces are virtually free and perfect for experimentation.
  • Unique Texture: Cardboard, for example, has a rough texture that can add a raw, industrial feel to your work.
  • Environmental Impact: Using recycled materials is a great way to reduce waste and bring a sustainable element into your art practice.

These surfaces can be less durable, but they’re perfect for artists who enjoy experimenting with unconventional materials.

So depending on the type of effect you want to achieve, there are some great options out there for mixed media-just experiment and have fun! To see some of my favorite brands, sign up for my Behind the Brush newsletter HERE and receive more free links and resources for your art journey.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

Back to Creating In Him