Id' like to try fresco painting, but I'd like to reduce the number of new skills to start. I've found discussions of building a panel from plywood or OSB with expanded metal stapled onto it, but I'd like to avoid that at first.

Would simple cement backer board be a usable panel for learning purposes?

If so, are there any preparation steps necessary, or would I just wet it and lay a final coat?

I've found sources for pigments, but is there a source for paints? Do I need to get a muller and make them up even at the beginner level?

Is there any reference you could recommend to begining or learning fresco rather than mastering it?

Thank you for any advice or suggestions that you can offer.

Very Respectfully,
Larry