Canvas
Canvas is the most common support surface used for oil
painting. It has replaced wooden panels to earn this title. Of course,
it is also commonly used for other media such as acrylics and even watercolors.
The early canvas options were created from linen. This was a brownish
fabric which had significant strength. This makes it a particularly
fine choice for oil painting.
Cotton canvas came into use during the early 1900s. This was also referred
to as "cotton duck." While linen is composed of higher quality
material, cotton offers a more economical option. It is also particularly
popular today in use with acrylic paints.