Preparing ground with Gesso.

I really enjoy the process of preparing canvas for painting. I find it meditative and relaxing. A time when I may think about my intention for the painting to come.
Generally preparation for a painting involves 2-3 layers of Gesso for me. (Gesso is essentially PVA and White Acrylic paint) Each layer needs to be dry before applying another. Once on the canvas it provides a base for the paint to adhere to without corruption.
If you do not prime the paint will stain the raw canvas and bleed through to the back, diluting your paint and the color in the process. 
It also provides a 'tooth' (grip) for the paint and allows for other additives which can be mixed in to the gesso to change the texture before even painting. Some popular additives are pumice and fine sand. One coat can be enough but I like to apply at least 2 and 3 if I have the time. 
Tonight I am gessoing cards for the creation of more Tiny Talisman for the R-evol-u-tion project. The first 250 Tiny Talisman are on canvas card with texture already but I have purchased a high grade card with a coating of vellum, and will gesso for the next series of cards. 
It'll be interesting to see if the materials change the outcome in any way. I'll share pics so stay tuned!