Canvas Paintings

Framing canvas paintings is not difficult to do. The following guidelines will show you how to frame canvas that is not stretched.

Required Materials

Lumber (1 x 1)
Frame
Saw
Glue
Hammer
Nails
Tape measure
Staple gun

Step 1

Measure the canvas. Trace the outline on the canvas’ back to aid with the positioning for the frame.

Step 2

Saw the frame for the required canvas measurements. The ends should be at 45 degree angles.

Step 3

Put the angled lumber together so they match. Glue them. Repeat for the other lumber. Hammer the pieces together.

Step 4

Put the stretcher in the outline you made. Stretch the canvas over this. Start in the center of one of the longer sides. Pull up the canvas above the stretcher bar. Staple the canvas to the stretcher frame.

Step 5

Go to the opposite and repeat the procedure.

Step 6

To continue framing canvas paintings, return to the first side. Staple 1 and half inches from the first staple at the top. Staple at the bottom of the first staple 1 and half inches down. Repeat this for the other side.

Step 7

Work back and forth and staple 1 and half inches apart until you get to the top.

Step 8

Fold the corner side towards the middle of the back of the canvas. Do this for all sides, top and bottom. Staple them.

Step 9

Fold the canvas top over the stretcher frame. Pull it tight and staple in the center of the frame. Work across the frame’s top. Staple at intervals of 1 and half inches. Repeat this for the canvas’ bottom. Tuck in the corners’ top under. Staple the corners again.

Step 10

Select the frame you want to put the piece in. Slide in the canvas. Secure it with the frame.

Tips for Frame Buyers

Always measure the height, width and thickness of the canvas. The depth is very important because some frames use generic depth / thickness sizes. Keep the measurements in mind when you buy the mat and the pane of glass. Depending on the frame, you will be able to secure the canvas using framing clips or canvas clips. Prices of frames differ, so check out different stores first.

If you are framing canvas paintings and the depth is insufficient, you can use the canvas clips to fasten it. But if the height and width measurements are not accurate, the canvas will not fit, so double check your figures.

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