Gesso or Paste??

So a few weeks back, I saw the coolest YouTube video of someone stenciling with gesso. I have never done anything like it so I decided I HAD to try. I'm still learning and playing around, but now I see the same being done with paste. How do I know which one I want?? And I've seen embossing paste, modeling paste, texture paste...is this all the same stuff?? Pros and cons of these things? Thanks in advance!!

I've used gesso, texture paste and modeling paste.

Gesso is traditionally meant to prepare canvases and other surfaces for paint. I found it to be a bit too runny to effectively use it with a stencil. Please be aware that depending on the brand of gesso the thickness varies.
The tree in this layout was done with gesso.


I've used 2 texture pastes: one that creates crackle when it dries and one that creates a rough 'grain like' surface.
The golden key in this picture is made with the crackle paste, and the edging (rusty red) on the inner frame is made with the grain like paste.
I found that these were easier to use with stencils because they are stable enough to not 'run' under the stencil.


Lastly, the modeling paste: This paste is so thick that you can actually use it to 'sculpt' extensions of embellishments and it works very well with laser cut detailed stencils.
The script in this picture was made with modeling paste.

I don't have the talent to what you do..LOL That's awesome! I went into Hobby Lobby and I saw the modeling paste, but the only thing next to it was a GEL type medium. That isn't the same as texture, is it? I had to go to the art department because the only thing in the paper craft department was metallic and glitter....I appreciate your help!!!

In the fine arts section of Hobby Lobby you will find all kind of great mediums!! For stencils - I use heavy modeling paste and love it. It is flexible so it doesn't crack and flake off when my pages bend.

Gel medium is awesome to use as adhesive when I use rocks, stones, or anything bulky. Gesso comes in white, clear and black. It provides a smooth surface to papers or objects and allows paints and inks to go over it smoothly.

Ok...I saw two modeling pastes...flexible and regular! LOL. I went with the regular because you hadn't said "flexible" in type...just in results. Do I need the other instead? I cut my own stencils (most) with my silhouette machine..hoping it works with paper? thanks for your help!

For me the gel is great to use when mixing Ken Oliver's pigment inks. I like the brightness and consistency it gives them and the gel dries clear unless its a certain finish.

• jaxxan Said:

So does the transparency still get dimension? Does that make sense? If you use it with a stencil, you can still see the design but it's clear?

When you use gesso on paper does it wrinkle? I tried to use gesso on heavy card stock to prime the paper, but my card stock buckled. Any tips you can explain to me. I just quit using it.
I use texture paste on stencils and love it!!

Cardstock can get distorted when you add gesso if it's very 'liquidy' and added to a large area.
I don't have that problem with texture paste though.

I have found gesso to be a bit messy. When I use LESS of it at a time, it's easier and the buckling of paper isn't as bad. I have since purchased modeling paste and texture paste. I LOVE BOTH!!!!! I use it depending upon what I am trying to achieve. Have yet to get the gel...

• carrie640 Said:

Yeah. The gel is a thicker density meant to be used with stencils. It comes in different finishes like gloss or matte so if you are going to be keeping it clear that might be something to think about.

Paper will buckle when wet. It will flatten out as it dries.