While there are other types of primers out there, including latex, if you're painting with acrylic or oil, gesso is the best option. "This is because the calcium carbonate mixture and acrylic ...

Depending on the technique used by the artist, acrylic can produce results that are like oil or watercolour ... been coated with a primer, such as gesso. Unprimed canvas has not been coated.

Depending on the technique used by the artist, acrylic can produce results that are like oil or watercolour ... been coated with a primer, such as gesso. Unprimed canvas has not been coated.