Ampersand Claybord Museum Series 24 in x 36 in 1/8 in - Ultimate

In this review the Ampersand Museum Series Claybord 24 in x 36 in 1/8 in profile is judged as a serious tool for mixed-media artists who need a smooth, stable surface. The single biggest reason to buy is the unique, ultra-smooth acid-free kaolin clay ground that accepts inks, gouache, acrylic and etching without the toothy resistance of traditional boards. For artists working in detailed illustration, printmaking or layered media, the Claybord lets you rework, erase with oil-free steel wool and even etch into the ground to add texture and contrast.

Key Features

• Ultra-smooth clay surface: The highly absorbent kaolin clay ground keeps colors bright and allows delicate line work for inks and gouache without bleeding.
• Limitless techniques: You can etch, scratch, erase and rework the surface to create texture, high contrast details and layered effects not possible on canvas.
• High-density core: The FSC-Certified Hardbord core is warp-resistant, providing a stable backing that helps prevent bowing over time.
• Archiva-Seal protection: The proprietary sealing and coating preserve the panel and make it suitable for mounting and archival mixed-media work.
• Made in the USA: Domestic manufacturing and over 25 years of panel expertise ensure consistent craftsmanship for large-format panels.

Who It's For

The Claybord is aimed at fine artists, illustrators and printmakers who need a rigid, archival surface that handles pigmented and alcohol inks, graphite, gouache, egg tempera and airbrush media. Its smooth ground is especially useful for artists who want clean edges, strong color contrast and the ability to scrape back layers for highlights and texture.

Artists who rely on flexible supports, heavy impasto techniques, or very rough tooth for pastels should consider alternatives such as textured canvas or heavier rigid boards with deeper profiles; this 1/8 in flat profile favors thin, controlled layers rather than thick, sculptural paint buildup.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptionally smooth, absorbent surface that preserves true color and fine detail for inks and gouache.
• Permits etching and erasing to build texture and high contrast highlights.
• Warp-resistant, high-density Hardbord core gives reliable stability for large panels.
• Archival sealing and US manufacture offer consistent quality and longevity.

Cons

• The 1/8 in flat profile is relatively thin and can feel fragile to some users when handled without support.
• Not ideal for heavy impasto or techniques that require deep texture built up on the surface.

Specifications

Product	Museum Series Claybord painting panel
Size	24 in x 36 in
Profile	1/8 in flat
Surface	Acid-free kaolin clay ground, ultra-smooth
Core	High-density, warp-resistant FSC-Certified Hardbord
Finish/Seal	Proprietary Archiva-Seal coating
Made	United States

Our Verdict

The Ampersand Museum Series Claybord 24 in x 36 in 1/8 in is a top choice for mixed-media artists who need an ultra-smooth, archival surface that accepts a wide range of media and allows etching and reworking. It represents good value for those seeking consistent, color-true results and stable, warp-resistant support; artists needing thicker build or very heavy handling should choose a thicker profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this panel be used with alcohol inks?
Yes, the highly absorbent clay ground accepts alcohol inks well and preserves intense color and crisp edges.

Is the panel archival and resistant to warping?
Yes, the Archiva-Seal coating and the FSC-Certified hardboard core are intended to keep the panel archival and minimize warping.

Can I erase or etch into the surface?
Yes, the clay surface allows etching and erasing with oil-free steel wool or very fine sandpaper to create texture and highlights.