Whether you’ve purchased an artwork on an unstretched canvas or are about to start a painting and don’t know if stretched or unstretched is the better option – this article is for you! Read on to get helpful information on what canvas stretching is, how much it costs and whether you should do it yourself or hire a professional.
What is canvas stretching?
Canvas stretching is essentially taking a piece of canvas and stretching it over a wooden frame, also known as stretcher bars. You can stretch a canvas that already has artwork on so that is ready to display. You can also stretch a blank canvas if you are an artist who prefers working on stretched canvas.
What is the difference between unstretched canvas and stretched canvas?
Unstretched canvas is canvas that has not been stretched over a frame. Imagine a piece of canvas material on its own. It may have artwork already on it such as a digital print, or it may be blank canvas which is designed to be painted on.
Unstretched canvas can be rolled up or laid flat for easy storage and safe transport. This is an advantage if the artwork needs to travel overseas or by plane and is the main reason why someone would purchase an unstretched canvas artwork rather than a stretched canvas. You do not normally display unstretched canvas as it is – it will typically be stretched first.
Stretched canvas is canvas that has been stretched over a wooden frame or stretcher bars. Stretched canvas is ready to display as is or it can be framed as well. Stretched canvas can be transported but it is bulkier and requires a greater level of protection than unstretched canvas.
Does canvas have to be stretched?
You don’t necessarily have to stretch the canvas if you are planning on keeping it in storage or will be transporting it in the near future. However, if you are planning on displaying the artwork, canvas stretching is almost always the ideal option.
Stretching the canvas protects the artwork and displays it in an attractive way. Artwork that is stretched tends to look brighter and more vibrant. The wooden frame provides structure and allows the artwork to be hung directly on the wall.
Some artists prefer to paint on unstretched canvas as it makes it easier to put their artwork into storage afterwards. They can choose to stretch their artwork afterwards if they desire. Other artists prefer to paint on stretched canvas and may purchase a pre stretched canvas.
Canvas stretching is appropriate for most works of art that is done on cotton or linen canvas material including paintings and digital prints. Care should be taken if stretching a painted artwork as there is a slight risk that the painting will crack during stretching.
In some cases, if the canvas cannot be stretched (for example, if a professional framer suggests it is too risky for the artwork) there may be the option of backing it with a board and framing it with a traditional picture frame to protect it.
How much does it cost to have a canvas stretched?
Canvas stretching tends to be more cost effective than custom framing of an artwork because you are paying for the stretcher bar and labour. With custom picture framing, you will also be paying for the framing material, mat board, glass and backing.
The price for canvas stretching will vary from framer to framer. Typically, the price is calculated on how large the canvas is as a larger canvas will require larger stretcher bars. You should consider the quality of canvas stretching that a framer offers.
Some picture framers may use poorly made stretcher bars or the incorrect size stretcher bar to keep their costs down. Using the incorrect size stretcher bars may cause bowing or warping over time, putting your artwork at risk of damage.
When the correct stretcher bar is chosen, there won’t be any need for brace bars, the canvas material won’t sag over time and the inner edge of the canvas bar will not rub or be visible on your artwork.
Why should you get a professional framer to stretch your canvas?
Stretching a canvas can be an artform in itself. If you are stretching a high-quality artwork, you’ll want a high-quality result. Unless you have the skills and experience, you might not be able to achieve that on your own. It might end up costing more if you outlay the materials to stretch a canvas yourself but then have to take it to a professional framer if you cannot finish it or damage it during the process.
Poorly done canvas stretching can lead to a range of problems from a sagging canvas to rips and tears in the artwork. Some damage can be irreparable. A professional canvas stretcher with years of experience under their belt will be able to achieve a high-quality result without putting your artwork in danger.
