Canvas Stretcher Frames - What Are They And Why Do Artists Use Them

Any type of artwork that requires the use of a canvas typically consists of oils

, acrylics and inks. The additional primers used with these mediums can bend canvas or cause it to shrivel. The larger your canvas gets, the higher the risk for this. Using canvas stretcher frames helps prevent your art from becoming a disaster and also makes it look professional.

Some artists are able to reproduce many paintings because the stretcher frames make painting easier to do so. There is no worrying about your art bending or wrinkling up because the frame will keep it pinned and in place. So, what is it exactly that canvas stretcher frames do? They make what is called an underpinning beneath your canvas. It helps keep your canvas stretched and tight that way your canvas surface is ideal for painting. The canvas is typically stretched tightly over the frame and then stapled in the back.

Some artists staple the canvas directly to the back of the frame. However, it's better and cleaner to staple it beneath the frame of the canvas to hide the staples. Having the stretcher frame makes your art work ready for framing. Or, you can skip the frame altogether and hang it simply as it is. The wood of canvas stretcher frames is very important. You want to find a sturdy wood that will keep your canvas stretched without problems.

Make sure the wood isn't warped. Warped wood can make the stretcher bars create uneven pressure to the surface of your canvas. This can create rips or tears in your canvas. If you use damp wood that may already begin to rot, it will discolour any surface of canvas you pull over it. So, avoid these types of woods when looking for materials for your stretcher frames. Also, while solely depending on the artist, it's wise to not use wood cuts over 3 inches. This can cause problems when trying to frame or hang on a wall later.

Frames that are cut between 1.5 inches and 3 inches are ideal for canvases. It's not a good idea to use canvas stretcher frames that are below an inch for larger canvas. This is because the canvas pressure can be too heavy and cause it to warp or snap. Crossbars or 'window' stretcher frames can be made to give your canvas more support. However, these typically aren't used on paintings smaller than 30 inches. But, they work perfectly for canvases that will be possibly adorning the majority of a wall.

by: Troy Truman

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