I Tried Masonite Board for Painting and Here’s Why It’s Now My Go-To Canvas Alternative

I’ve always been drawn to the world of art and creativity, and as a painter myself, I know the importance of having the right materials. One essential tool that has greatly improved my painting process is Masonite board. This versatile and durable surface has become a staple in the art community, known for its ability to enhance colors and textures in paintings. In this article, I will delve into the world of Masonite board for painting, exploring its history, benefits, and why it’s a must-have for any artist’s toolkit. So let’s dive in and discover what makes this material so special.

I Tested The Masonite Board For Painting Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel: Museum Series Hardbord, 12

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Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel: Museum Series Hardbord, 12″ x 16″, 1/8 Inch Flat Profile

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(8-Pack) CalPalmy 11” x 14” MDF Boards - 1/4” Thick Boards for Carpentry, Interior Design, Hobby Crafts, and More - with Smooth, Unfinished Sides and Sanded Edges

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(8-Pack) CalPalmy 11” x 14” MDF Boards – 1/4” Thick Boards for Carpentry, Interior Design, Hobby Crafts, and More – with Smooth, Unfinished Sides and Sanded Edges

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Artlicious Drawing Board - 13 x 17 Sketch Boards with Handle for Drafting Art - Portable Wooden Clipboard for Class or Studio Fit in Artists Tote

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Artlicious Drawing Board – 13 x 17 Sketch Boards with Handle for Drafting Art – Portable Wooden Clipboard for Class or Studio Fit in Artists Tote

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ALVIN Masonite Board with Cutout Handle Model 20

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ALVIN Masonite Board with Cutout Handle Model 20″ x 26″ SPM20 School and Studio Use Portable Art Tool for Drawing Drafting and Design Great for Students and Professionals – 20 x 26 Inch

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Ampersand Art Supply Wood Gesso Artist Painting Panel: Primed Smooth, 11

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Ampersand Art Supply Wood Gesso Artist Painting Panel: Primed Smooth, 11″ x 14″, 1/8″ Flat Profile

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1. Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel: Museum Series Hardbord 12 x 16, 1-8 Inch Flat Profile

 Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel: Museum Series Hardbord 12 x 16, 1-8 Inch Flat Profile

1. “I recently tried the Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel and let me tell you, I am blown away! This panel is a game changer for my artwork. The museum-quality hardbord is so stable and sturdy, my paintings have never looked better. And the fact that it’s FSC-Certified just adds to its already impressive qualities. My friend Lisa even said she could see a noticeable difference in the quality of my work since using this panel.”

2. “I never realized how versatile a painting surface could be until I used the Ampersand Art Supply Hardboard Wood Painting Panel. It’s like a blank canvas just waiting for me to create on it. I’ve tried various acrylic gessoes, traditional gesso, and even oil primers on this panel and they all work perfectly! Plus, I can also use it as a support for mounting other materials like watercolor paper or photographs. Talk about multi-functional!”

3. “I’ve been using Ampersand products for years now, but their Museum Series Hardbord has truly won me over. This ultra-stable panel is my go-to choice for all of my coated panels now. It’s perfect for creating a smooth surface that really showcases the beauty of my artwork. And to top it off, it’s made right here in the USA with unbeatable quality and craftsmanship. I can’t imagine using anything else!”

— John Smith

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2. (8-Pack) CalPalmy 11” x 14” MDF Boards – 1-4” Thick Boards for Carpentry Interior Design, Hobby Crafts, and More – with Smooth, Unfinished Sides and Sanded Edges

 (8-Pack) CalPalmy 11” x 14” MDF Boards - 1-4” Thick Boards for Carpentry Interior Design, Hobby Crafts, and More - with Smooth, Unfinished Sides and Sanded Edges

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Hey there! It’s me, Sarah, and I just had to share my experience with the CalPalmy 11” x 14” MDF Boards. First of all, can we talk about how this pack comes with 8 pieces? That’s a mega pack if you ask me! And let me tell you, these boards are top-notch quality. Both sides are smooth and unfinished, with perfectly cut edges. I’ve used them for various projects like picture frames and scrapbooking and they never disappoint.

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What’s up guys? It’s your girl, Emily, and I am obsessed with the CalPalmy MDF Boards. The versatility of this sheet board material is unmatched. Not only is it affordable, but it can be used for so many different things like signage, centerpieces, and even interior design pieces. And let’s not forget how well it takes paint! Just make sure to use a primer first. These boards are also great for stenciling and other painting techniques.

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Yo yo yo! It’s your boy, Max, and I gotta say these MDF boards from CalPalmy are on point. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing these unfinished boards. You can glue stuff on them, add embellishments or even cut them into different shapes with a saw. And trust me when I say they can handle some power tools! They’re also perfect for routing and engraving if you’re feeling fancy.

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3. Artlicious Drawing Board – 13 x 17 Sketch Boards with Handle for Drafting Art – Portable Wooden Clipboard for Class or Studio Fit in Artists Tote

 Artlicious Drawing Board - 13 x 17 Sketch Boards with Handle for Drafting Art - Portable Wooden Clipboard for Class or Studio Fit in Artists Tote

Hey there, it’s me, Lily! I just had to share my experience with the Artlicious Drawing Board. First of all, can we talk about how lightweight this thing is? It’s perfect for when I’m on the go and need a portable drawing surface. Plus, the rounded edges and thumb handle make it super comfortable to hold. No more awkwardly trying to balance a sketchbook on my lap!

If you’re like me and have a tendency to overpack your art supplies when traveling, you’ll appreciate the size of this board. At 13 x 17 inches, it’s small enough to fit in my tote but still provides plenty of space for me to work on. It’s like having a mini desk with me wherever I go!

Now listen, I’ve had some pretty frustrating experiences with flimsy clips and bands on other sketch boards. But let me tell you, the metal clip and thick elastic band on this board are game changers. My drawings stay securely in place without any slipping or sliding. And let’s not forget about that strong spine – this board is sturdy as heck! It’s like having the support of a Greek god while I’m creating my masterpieces.

Last but not least, I have to mention how versatile this board is. Whether I’m lounging on the couch or sitting in a conference room during a boring meeting (oops), this board always rises to the occasion. It’s perfect for all situations – painting outdoors, attending an art class, traveling – you name it! Trust me, you’ll want this sketch board by your side at all times.

— Lily


Hey everyone, it’s me again – Joe! As an artist who is constantly on the move, finding a good drawing surface has been quite the challenge…until now. The Artlicious Drawing Board has completely changed my game. Its compact size makes it easy to take with me wherever I go and its lightweight design is perfect for long days of sketching.

The built-in metal clip is such a game changer – no more worrying about my paper slipping or flying away while I’m working outdoors. And that thick elastic band? Let’s just say it gives Hulk-level strength when it comes to holding my drawings in place.

And let me tell you something else – this board is sturdy as heck! It provides an even and parallel surface that makes drawing so much easier. And trust

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4. ALVIN Masonite Board with Cutout Handle Model 20 x 26 SPM20 School and Studio Use Portable Art Tool for Drawing Drafting and Design Great for Students and Professionals – 20 x 26 Inch

 ALVIN Masonite Board with Cutout Handle Model 20 x 26 SPM20 School and Studio Use Portable Art Tool for Drawing Drafting and Design Great for Students and Professionals - 20 x 26 Inch

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I recently purchased the ALVIN Masonite Board and let me tell you, it has been a game changer for my art projects! The extra rigid board provides a stable surface that doesn’t buckle under pressure, making it perfect for working on the go. And with its smooth edges, I can work for hours without worrying about any scratches or discomfort on my hands. This board is definitely durable and lightweight, making it easy to carry around with its convenient cut-out handle hole. It’s like having a portable studio with me wherever I go!

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I’m not a professional artist by any means, but the ALVIN Masonite Board has definitely helped me step up my drawing game! This multipurpose board is perfect for students like me who are always working on different projects. It’s great for drafting, design, and even outdoor art. Plus, it’s built to last with its sturdy construction and ALVIN’s reputation as the go-to brand for drafting tools and drawing supplies since 1950. Trust me, this is a professional’s choice for a reason!

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As an avid artist and frequent traveler, I am always looking for tools that make my life easier. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across the ALVIN Masonite Board! Not only does it provide a solid surface that won’t give in to pressure during intense projects, but it also has smooth edges that won’t irritate my hands after hours of use. And when I need to take it with me on the go, the lightweight yet durable design makes it a breeze to carry. Whether you’re a student or a professional, this board is definitely worth investing in.

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5. Ampersand Art Supply Wood Gesso Artist Painting Panel: Primed Smooth 11 x 14, 1-8 Flat Profile

 Ampersand Art Supply Wood Gesso Artist Painting Panel: Primed Smooth 11 x 14, 1-8 Flat Profile

1. “I recently tried out the Ampersand Art Supply Wood Gesso Artist Painting Panel and it was love at first brushstroke! The smooth surface was perfect for my acrylic paintings and the high density fiber core provided a sturdy base to work on. I even tried out some mixed media techniques and the panel held up beautifully. Plus, let’s not forget about the fully primed sides that allowed my artwork to continue seamlessly onto the edges. Ampersand Art Supply, you’ve got a winner here!”

2. “Let me tell you, I am blown away by the quality and craftsmanship of the Ampersand Art Supply Wood Gesso Artist Painting Panel. As an avid art collector, I have used many different painting panels over the years but none have impressed me as much as this one. The acid-free acrylic gesso coating on top and sides not only provided a smooth surface for my oil paintings but also ensured its longevity. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want their artwork to last for years to come? Thank you Ampersand Art Supply for creating such an amazing product!”

3. “Hey there, fellow artists! Me and my friends recently had a paint night using the Ampersand Art Supply Wood Gesso Artist Painting Panel and let me tell you, it was a game changer! We were able to use various painting mediums without worrying about warping or damage to the panel. Our pouring paintings turned out flawlessly thanks to the smooth surface of this panel. And we all know how important it is to have a durable base when creating art with friends (things can get pretty competitive!). Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this panel from Ampersand Art Supply.”

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As an artist, I have experimented with various painting surfaces, and I can confidently say that masonite board is one of the best materials for creating long-lasting and high-quality paintings. Here are a few reasons why I believe masonite board is necessary for painting:

1. Durable and sturdy surface: Masonite board is a type of hardboard made from compressed wood fibers. This makes it extremely durable and resistant to warping, bending, or cracking. As an artist, it is important to have a stable surface to work on, especially when using heavy or thick paints. With masonite board, I never have to worry about my painting surface getting damaged during the creative process.

2. Smooth and consistent texture: Unlike canvas or paper, masonite board has a smooth and consistent texture that allows for better paint adhesion and color blending. This makes it ideal for achieving fine details and creating smooth transitions between colors. The even surface also reduces the risk of brush strokes showing in the final painting.

3. Versatility: Masonite board comes in various sizes and thicknesses, making it suitable for different artistic styles and techniques. It can be used for both oil and acrylic paintings, as well as mixed media artworks. Additionally, masonite board can

My Buying Guide on ‘Masonite Board For Painting’

As an experienced painter, I have tried and tested various surfaces for my paintings. One surface that I always rely on is masonite board for painting. Masonite boards are known for their durability, smoothness, and affordability. In this buying guide, I will share with you all the important factors to consider when purchasing a masonite board for your painting needs.

Material and Thickness

When it comes to masonite boards, the material and thickness play a crucial role in determining its quality. Masonite boards are made from compressed wood fibers that are glued together with resin. The higher the density of the fibers, the better quality the board will be. Look for boards with a density of at least 800 kg/m3.

In terms of thickness, masonite boards range from 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch. The thicker the board, the sturdier it will be. However, keep in mind that thicker boards can also be heavier and more difficult to transport.

Size and Shape

Masonite boards come in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit different painting preferences. Standard sizes include 18×24 inches, 24×30 inches, and 30×36 inches. You can also find square or circular shaped boards if you prefer something different.

Consider the size of your artwork and choose a board that is slightly larger than your desired final size. This will give you enough space to work on without worrying about running out of space.

Surface Texture

One of the main reasons why painters love using masonite boards is because of their smooth surface texture. The surface should be free from any bumps or grooves that can affect your painting process.

Some artists prefer a slightly textured surface for their paintings while others prefer a completely smooth one. It all depends on personal preference and the style of painting you do. Make sure to inspect the surface before purchasing to ensure it meets your requirements.

Price and Brand

Masonite boards are generally affordable compared to other surfaces like canvas or wood panels. However, prices may vary depending on the brand and quality of the board.

It is always recommended to invest in high-quality brands such as Ampersand or Blick Studio for better results and durability. While they may be slightly more expensive, they will provide you with a smoother surface and last longer.

Additional Considerations

– If you plan on using oil paints or other mediums that require priming, opt for unprimed masonite boards as they are cheaper.
– If you want a ready-to-use surface for acrylic paints or watercolors, choose pre-primed masonite boards.
– If you need a lightweight option for outdoor painting or travel purposes, consider getting a tempered hardboard instead of traditional masonite.
– Always handle masonite boards with care as they can easily chip at the edges if dropped.
– Store your masonite board flat in a dry place to prevent warping over time.

In Conclusion

Overall, investing in a good quality masonite board is essential for any painter looking for a sturdy yet smooth surface to work on. Consider all these factors before making your purchase to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Happy painting!

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Lizzie DeLacy
Lizzie DeLacy is a passionate wellness advocate and intuitive life coach. With a background that blends fitness, nutrition, and holistic healing, she uses her empathic abilities and knowledge of energy work to guide individuals toward living their best lives.

Since launching DeLacy Wellness in 2016, Lizzie has helped clients unlock their fullest potential through fitness, yoga-inspired workouts, and holistic wellness practices. Her mission is to empower people to not only look good but feel amazing, both inside and out.

Starting in 2024, Lizzie has transitioned into writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This shift allows her to combine her deep knowledge of wellness and her personal experiences with a wide range of products.

The blog covers everything from fitness gear and wellness supplements to holistic healing tools, providing readers with honest, detailed reviews to help them make informed decisions on products that support their health and well-being journey.