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are NOT too long.

Build your frame with the stretcher bars and set aside as you get your canvas. Make sure that you have enough room to work in that you can unroll the canvas and place the frame on top. (This is the easiest way to measure the correct amount of canvas needed.) Make sure you cut the canvas at least two inches larger than your frame! A little bit larger is not going to hurt things but you don't want to cut it too short. Roll the remaining canvas back up and store leaving the frame and canvas piece laying flat on the floor. Grab your staple gun.

Pick a side and fold the excess canvas over the top side of the frame. Attach the canvas to the frame by placing three staples about inch apart beginning in the center and working out. Move to the opposite (bottom) side and pull the canvas tight as you wrap the excessive over the edge. Staple three as before. Now move to one of the sides. Pull tight and again three staples. Repeat on the fourth and final side. Now return to the top side pulling tight and staple a few more working to the corners and moving to the bottom, sides, etc. NOTE: it is imperative that you do not completely attach one side before moving to the next! By working in small sections at a time you are creating a tighter surface which is what you need. If you find your hands are not strong enough to create a tight-as-a-drum stretch then enlist the help of a second person.

Priming: I use your standard everyday gesso to prime my canvas. Make sure that you place an old sheet, paper or plastic beneath your canvas to avoid inadvertent splatters on your flooring. I buy the gesso in a tub which is cheaper and easier to put my 3 inch brush in but you can also buy smaller qualities. When priming your canvas, make sure you start at the center and work your way to the edges evenly (don't forget the edges). It's important to keep your brush wet so make certain you have adequate water nearby or your brush will become ruined. Let dry completely and repeat. I usually apply 3 to 4 coats to get a really good surface but 2 good coats are sufficient.

Palettes:

There are many palettes available: wood, plastic, glass, paper pads. I like to use a paper pad. They are cheap and when you have finished your painting you can tear off the top sheet and throw it away.

Colors:

Different artist will recommend different color palettes to get you started. And when starting out sometimes it is easier and cheaper to buy a pre-packaged set. I have listed some of my favorite colors

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