While some crafters use a thin layer of white acrylic paint instead of gesso, it is not a suitable substitute for gesso. Gesso is specifically formulated to create a surface that is good for painting, drawing, or other art media. It creates a porous and slightly textured surface that allows the paint to adhere better and provides a consistent base for the artwork. Acrylic paint, on the other hand, is designed to be a paint medium and not a primer.