Liquitex Basics Acrylic Gesso is used to seal, prime, and add tooth (for color adhesion) to all surfaces such as canvas, wood, paper, and metal. This same preparation is used for both acrylic and oil paint. Basics Gesso offers good value for money while also providing a high-quality base coat suitable for a variety of surfaces. Basics Gesso is flexible/non-cracking and does not yellow over time. If using more than one coat, sanding between coats is recommended. Adding Liquitex Soft Body color to any gesso creates customized tints.