Introduction Choosing the right icon board is one of the most important steps in traditional icon painting. A well-made panel provides stability, durability, and a surface suitable for egg tempera and gilding. For centuries, iconographers have relied on carefully prepared wooden panels with traditional gesso. The quality of the board directly affects the longevity and appearance of the icon. In this article, we will explain what makes a professional icon board and how to choose the best one for your work. Solid Wood vs Plywood One of the first decisions is the type of material used for the panel. Many modern panels are made from plywood or MDF. While these materials can be affordable, they often lack the stability and longevity required for traditional icon painting. Solid wood panels are the traditional choice used by iconographers for centuries. Advantages of solid wood panels natural stability traditional material used in iconography long lifespan better resistance to warping when properly constructed Linden (basswood) is especially valued because of its fine grain and stable structure. It allows for smooth gesso preparation and provides an ideal surface for painting. What Is a Kovcheg? In traditional Orthodox icon boards, the central recessed area is called a kovcheg. The kovcheg creates a natural frame around the icon image and has both artistic and symbolic meaning. Historically, it represents the sacred space where the holy image appears. Professional iconographers often prefer panels with a kovcheg because it enhances the traditional appearance of the icon. Why Wood Braces Are Important Quality icon boards usually include wooden braces on the back. These braces help stabilize the panel and reduce the risk of warping over time. They are especially important for medium and large icons. Traditional icon boards often use hardwood splines inserted into the panel to keep the wood stable while still allowing natural movement. Traditional Gesso Surface The painting surface of an icon board is usually prepared with traditional gesso. This surface is created by applying multiple layers of gesso made from chalk and natural glue. Each layer is carefully sanded to achieve a smooth and durable painting ground. A well-prepared gesso surface is essential for: egg tempera painting gilding detailed iconographic work Choosing the Right Size Icon boards come in many sizes depending on the intended icon. Some commonly used sizes include: 20 × 25 cm 21 × 30 cm 25 × 30 cm 30 × 40 cm 40 × 50 cm Choosing the correct size depends on the composition and tradition of the icon being painted. Conclusion A high-quality icon board should combine several essential elements: solid wood construction stable braces traditional gesso surface carefully prepared structure When these elements come together, the panel provides a reliable foundation for icon painting that can last for generations. At Craft UA Icon Boards, we produce professional icon panels made from solid linden wood, prepared with traditional gesso and designed specifically for iconographers. Our goal is to provide a stable and reliable surface that supports the sacred art of icon painting.