How to Stretch Printed Canvas

Printers today are able to print out a favorite photo to a canvas.

Today's digital technology allows the printing of photos and artworks on a canvas. This gives an artsy feel to the images and the images may go in a frame the same way as a paper print out. Another option is to stretch the printed canvas across the frame in an art painting style. Stretching a printed canvas is simply a matter of grabbing, pulling and stapling, a technique that is not difficult and worth a try.

Things You'll Need

• Stretcher Frame
• Printer canvas
• Measuring tape
• Handheld staple gun
• Staples
• Stretcher pliers (optional)

Instructions

1. Measure the size of the stretcher frame needed. It should be approximately 3 inches shorter on each side of the printer canvas.

2. Lay the canvas out and center the stretcher frame on top. Fold over one side of the canvas and place a staple in the center.

3. Pull the opposite side of the canvas tight, then place the second staple in the center.

4. Repeat the process to the other two sides, pulling the canvas taut before placing the staple. Use the stretcher pliers to help pull the canvas tight, if desired.

5. Go back to the first staple and grab the canvas, pull tight and place another staple approximately 2 inches to the right. Repeat to the left side of the centered staple.

6. Continue the process to the other three sides of the canvas up to the corner.

7. Pull the corner flap tight, fold over and then staple. Repeat to the other three corners.

8. Turn the print over and check for sags or creases. Adjust if necessary, by pulling out the staple, pull until taut and then staple.

Tips & Warnings

• CanvasDeluxe Home: http://www.canvasdeluxe.com/

• All questions to [e-mail]

References

• Empty Easel: How to Stretch Canvas: A Tutorial With Step-by-Step Instructions

Resources

• Studio Chalk Board: