Handcrafted
Icon Panels
Each Sophia Icon Studio panel is handcrafted using traditional methods adapted for contemporary iconographers. These panels are designed not simply as painting surfaces, but as stable and beautiful foundations for sacred work. Every board is individually prepared, sanded, sealed, and finished by hand in the Boise, Idaho workshop of Christian Gillette.
Christian begins with the highest quality, 3/4" thick Baltic Birch plywood, chosen for its excellent stability, durability, and affordability. The panel is carefully sealed and covered with a linen cloth before many coats of true natural gesso are applied by hand. The gesso is made in-house using French marble chalk and traditional rabbit skin glue, creating a smooth and luminous painting surface well suited to the demands of traditional iconography. Each panel is then hand sanded to a refined finish and prepared for years of use.
A few custom Icon Panels made by Christian Gillette with Kovcheg, Rounded top and Gothic arch.
A range of panel styles are available, from simple flat devotional panels to more elaborate architectural forms featuring raised borders, rounded tops, gothic arches, and traditional-style kovcheg construction. Because iconography is both artistic and devotional, the panel itself should carry a sense of craftsmanship and intention. The subtle shaping of a border, the gentle curve of an arch, or the depth of a raised edge all contribute to the presence and character of the finished icon.
These panels are suitable for egg tempera, acrylic, oil, and many other painting methods. Whether creating a small personal icon for prayer or a large commissioned work for a church or chapel, Sophia Icon Studio strives to create panels worthy of the sacred image they will receive.
Some standard flat panels available for purchase from our store
Small standard panels are available directly through our online store, while larger or custom architectural panels are made to order. For a general list of standard sized panels and their cost, please see our pricing guide, here. If you don't see the size or shape you need please reach out to Christian- he is happy to make any sized panel!
If you have questions about custom work, shipping, or lead times, or would like to pleace a special order, please contact Christian at christian@sophiaiconstudio.com.
A custom panel by Christian Gillette with curved top and recessed painting surface (Kovcheg)