Stretched Canvas

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Browse through our extensive range of Stretched Canvas. Whether you are an avid painter or a complete beginner, we will strive to help you with whatever you're after!

At ArtStore Online, we strive to bring you the best Stretched Canvas brands available, and have a wide range of art & craft supplies from trusted and respected brands from around the world, including Artitude, Jasart and Winsor & Newton!

What is a stretched canvas?

A stretched canvas is a piece of canvas fabric that has been tightly pulled over a wooden frame (referred to as a stretcher bar frame) and secured, usually with staples or tacks. This process ensures the canvas is taut and smooth, providing a stable and firm surface for painting. Stretched canvases are commonly used by artists, particularly for acrylic and oil paintings, due to their durability and the professional quality they offer. Here are the key components and steps involved in making a stretched canvas:

Canvas Fabric: The fabric, which can be made of cotton, linen, or synthetic materials, serves as the painting surface.

Stretcher Bars: Wooden bars, often with a bevelled edge, are assembled to create a rectangular frame. They can come pre-assembled or in pieces that the artist assembles.

Stretching: The canvas is laid over the frame and pulled tight. The tension must be even to avoid sagging or wrinkles.

Securing: The stretched canvas is fastened to the back of the stretcher bars with staples or tacks.

Priming (Optional): The canvas may be primed with gesso, a type of primer that prepares the surface to accept paint and prevents it from soaking through the canvas.

Stretched canvases are favoured because they are ready to use, convenient to display, and maintain their shape well, making them ideal for both beginners and professional artists.

What are the benefits of a stretched canvas?

A stretched canvas offers several benefits, making it a popular choice among artists, especially for acrylic and oil paintings. Here are the key advantages:

Durable and Long-Lasting: Stretched canvases are durable and can withstand the rigours of painting, handling, and display. High-quality canvas and properly constructed stretcher bars contribute to the longevity of the artwork.

Professional Appearance: A stretched canvas provides a clean, professional look that is ready for display. It does not require framing, although it can be framed if desired.

Stable Painting Surface: The tight, even tension of a stretched canvas offers a stable and consistent painting surface, which helps artists achieve precise brushstrokes and effects.

Portability: Stretched canvases are relatively lightweight and easy to transport, making them convenient for artists who work in different locations or need to bring their work to galleries or exhibitions.

Ease of Use: They are ready to use immediately, eliminating the need for artists to stretch their own canvas, which can be time-consuming and require special skills and tools.

Versatility: Stretched canvases are available in various sizes and shapes, accommodating a wide range of artistic needs and preferences. Custom sizes can also be ordered.

Support for Various Mediums: While particularly suited for oil and acrylic paints, stretched canvases can also be used with other mediums, such as mixed media, collage, and even some watercolour techniques.

Textured Surface: The natural texture of the canvas can enhance the visual and tactile qualities of a painting, adding depth and character to the artwork.

Preventing Paint Cracking: Properly stretched and primed canvases reduce the likelihood of paint cracking over time, maintaining the integrity of the artwork.

Breathability: The fabric of the canvas allows for air circulation, which can help prevent moisture buildup and potential mould growth, preserving the painting.

Customisable: Artists can choose canvases with different levels of priming (single, double, or triple primed) and different textures (smooth, medium, or rough), tailoring the surface to their specific needs and artistic style.

Overall, stretched canvases provide a reliable, high-quality surface that enhances the painting experience and the final presentation of the artwork.

What are some tips for using a stretched canvas?

Using a stretched canvas effectively can significantly enhance your painting experience and the quality of your artwork. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your stretched canvas:

Choose the Right Canvas: Select a canvas that suits your medium (acrylic, oil, etc.) and desired texture. Consider the weave and weight of the canvas for your specific project.

Prime the Canvas: Even if the canvas comes pre-primed, you might want to add an additional layer of gesso to create a smoother or more textured surface, depending on your preference.

Keep the Canvas Taut: Ensure the canvas remains tightly stretched. If it starts to sag, you can use canvas tightening keys (small wooden or plastic wedges inserted into the corners of the stretcher bars) to adjust the tension.

Use a Ground Layer: Apply a ground layer (a thin, even coat of paint or gesso) to create a uniform base. This can enhance paint adhesion and make colours more vibrant.

Work with the Texture: Utilise the natural texture of the canvas to add depth and interest to your painting. Experiment with different brushstrokes and techniques to take advantage of this feature.

Secure Your Canvas: Use an easel or a sturdy surface to keep your canvas stable while you work. This helps prevent accidental movement and allows for more precise brushwork.

Protect the Edges: To keep the edges clean for framing or display, consider taping the sides or using a masking technique. Alternatively, you can paint the edges for a finished look if you plan to display the canvas without a frame.

Avoid Overloading with Paint: While the canvas can handle layers of paint, avoid applying excessively thick layers, which can cause cracking or sagging over time.

Proper Storage: Store your stretched canvases in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent warping, fading, or damage from humidity.

Transport with Care: When moving or transporting your canvases, cover them with protective materials to avoid scratches, dents, or other damage.

Experiment with Techniques: Try different painting techniques, such as glazing, impasto, or dry brushing, to see how the canvas responds and to achieve various effects.

Finish and Protect Your Work: Once your painting is complete and thoroughly dry, consider applying a varnish to protect the surface from dust, UV rays, and other environmental factors. Varnishing also enhances the colours and finish of your painting.

By following these tips, you can maximise the potential of your stretched canvas, creating beautiful and lasting artwork.

What is the difference between a normal canvas and a stretched canvas?

The main difference between a normal canvas and a stretched canvas lies in their preparation and readiness for use. Here’s a summary of the key differences:

Preparation: Normal canvas needs to be stretched and primed, while stretched canvas is ready to use.

Convenience: Stretched canvas is more convenient and time-saving.

Cost: Normal canvas is typically cheaper, but stretched canvas offers added value in terms of ease of use and professional finish.

Customisation: Normal canvas allows for custom sizes and shapes, whereas stretched canvas is pre-made to standard dimensions.

Usability: Stretched canvas provides a stable, taut surface ideal for painting, while normal canvas can be adapted for various uses but requires preparation for painting.