I love this product. A rigid surface just has a different feel to it. Panels are so conducive for detailed Realism. I like to prepare Hardbord panels with traditional RSG and traditional panel gesso (totally different than acrylic 'gesso'), but for quick studies, the pre-primed Gessobord does the trick. I do like to add 1 or 2 layers of my own primer on the Gessobord, sanding between coats because I find the texture a little too rough and the surface a little too absorbent. But you can't beat it for convienence and price. Ampersand's Pastelbord is fantastic for pastels with no additional preparation required. They are ready to go as is and give a beautiful result.