If you'd like your canvas to look its best, you should consider having it stretched professionally. A professional framer knows exactly how to canvas stretching so that it looks amazing, and it will also protect your artwork from aging. Here are some tips to make the process of custom sizing canvas a breeze, First, get some scrap wood and a hammer.
When stretching unprimed canvas, you don't want to pull it too tight, as this can cause visible dents in the canvas. Also, make sure that you don't fold any corners when stretching. It's best to start from the four corners and stretch the canvas from there, following the weave lines. Be sure not to fold corners, as they can make your stretched canvas look crooked and uneven.
The amount of canvas you need depends on the thickness of your bars and whether or not you'll wrap around the bars to the back. Most artists choose gallery wrap, but you can also use tacks if you prefer. For a standard depth bar, you'll need about 2cm of canvas, while a deep-profile bar needs at least fivecm of canvas on each side. After you've selected the right size, you can begin stretching your canvas. The next step in custom canvas stretching is measuring the canvas.
You should measure the canvas and your stretcher frame, then knock the frame square. To make sure that you're measuring properly, you can use a square, by striking the two corners with one blow. This method can move your measurement by about a cm. For larger canvas, you should use a large work table or floor. In the end, you'll be surprised at how quickly the process can be done. When stretching your canvas, you'll want it to have an even tension throughout the entire canvas. Start by folding it over the frame. Then, use staples near the top edge of the fabric. Repeat step one on all four sides of the canvas. Then, you'll be ready to stretch it! Just make sure that you have enough staples on hand and are using a canvas pliers for this. That way, the canvas will be tighter and the staples won't fall out.
The price for a canvas stretching service is usually the same as the cost of an artist's supply bar. This includes a set of four new corner dovetail joiners and a centre bar for extra bracing. Remember that canvas stretching is a heavy process and puts a lot of tension on the bars. If the bars are not placed evenly, your canvas will warp and rock while it's stretching. Once you're done, it's time to hang your canvas! When choosing the proper canvas for your painting, there are several things to consider.
Firstly, choose your canvas type. It can be linen, cotton, or jute. You should choose its weight, as heavier canvas will hold more tension and look better. Prime your canvas with oil or unprimed. Choose the brand and quality of your canvas. These two factors will determine the final cost and the quality of the canvas. You'll need to select the type of canvas and frame that best suits your needs.