How to Frame a Canvas Back Photo

Photographers can choose to make a canvas backed version of their work.

In addition to photographs that are printed with regular photo paper backing, some photographs are printed with canvas backing. While photos on regular photo paper are placed inside of a picture frame, canvas backed photos are stretched over the top of a frame and attached, covering the entire frame with the picture. There are shops that will print and frame canvas backed photographs, however, with a few tools and materials, this task can be performed by someone with a minimum of framing skills.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Wooden picture frame
• Stapler
• Staples
• Needle nose pliers
• Canvas backed photograph

Instructions

1. Using the tape measure, measure the canvas backed photo to be framed. When measuring, take into account that the frame will have to be few inches smaller than the picture to allow the picture to wrap around the frame.

2. With the photo dimensions and tape measure in hand, either find a frame or construct a frame that will accommodate the picture. One option for a frame is to use a frame from an existing canvas box print, and remove the existing print by using needle nose pliers to remove the staples.

3. Stretch the canvas backed photograph over the top of the frame using the measuring tape to ensure proper placement. The photograph should wrap totally around the frame with the canvas extending to the back of the frame.

4. Take the stapler and staples, and staple the canvas to the back of the frame.

Tips & Warnings

• When searching for a frame, it can help to take a piece of canvas the size of the photograph to be framed to ensure a proper fit.

• Before stapling, make sure that the canvas is stretched tight across the frame.

References

• Lucky Larry: Easy way to make Photo Canvas Box Frames

Resources

• One Hour Craft: How To Make Stunning Canvas Photos -- These Rock!