Is it better to paint on canvas or canvas board?

The choice between painting on canvas or canvas board depends on various factors including your personal preferences, the specific requirements of your artwork, and your working style.

Stretched canvas typically has a more noticeable texture than canvas board, which can add depth and interest to your painting. This texture can be advantageous for certain styles or techniques where you want to build up layers of paint.

Canvas is flexible and can be stretched over a frame, allowing you to create larger paintings without worrying about the stability of the surface. Stretched canvas can also be easily framed for display.

While stretched canvas can be lightweight, it can be more cumbersome to transport compared to canvas boards, especially if the canvas is large or if you need to protect it during transit.

Stretched canvas can be more prone to damage, such as punctures or tears, especially if it's not properly handled or stored.

Canvas boards typically have a smoother surface compared to stretched canvas, which may be preferable for artists who prefer to work with finer details or smoother brushstrokes.

Canvas boards are rigid and less prone to warping compared to stretched canvas, making them suitable for smaller paintings or studies where a stable surface is important.

Canvas boards are often more affordable than stretched canvas, making them a budget-friendly option for artists who want to experiment or produce studies without investing in larger pieces of canvas.

Canvas boards are easier to store and transport than stretched canvas since they are flat and stackable, making them a convenient option for artists who work in smaller spaces or need to transport their artwork frequently.

In summary, both canvas and canvas board have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences as an artist. It's often helpful to experiment with both surfaces to see which one suits your style and techniques best.