How to Stretch a Canvas on Stretcher Bars

Steps

1. 1. Slot the Canvas Stretcher Bars Together

   Lay out your four stretcher bars. Each one has a beveled edge on one side and a flat side.

   Tip: Sand any sharp corners on the bars first so they cannot cut through the canvas.

   

2. 2. Square the Corners of the Canvas Stretcher Frame

   Press each corner joint tight on a flat table. On a larger frame, add corner gussets: flat triangles of wood or hardboard fixed across the back of each corner.

   Tip: A frame that is not square shows as a twisted, uneven canvas later. Check it now.

   

3. 3. Snip the Raw Canvas at the Measured Width

   Lay the frame on the canvas, beveled side down. Work out how much extra fabric you need to wrap each side and grip with the pliers.

   Tip: About 2 inches beyond the bar on each side suits standard depth bars.

   

4. 4. Tear the Canvas Along the Thread for a Straight Edge

   Grip the fabric on either side of the snip and tear it across. The tear follows a single thread of the weave, so the edge comes out straight with no jagged angles.

   Tip: Tearing only works on woven cotton and linen. Cut synthetic canvas with scissors.

   

5. 5. Pull the Canvas Over the Stretcher Bar and Staple the Center

   Center the frame on the canvas. Fold the fabric up over the middle of one bar and put a single staple into the back of the bar.

   Tip: Keep the weave running straight across the frame as you pull.

   

6. 6. Tension the Canvas With Pliers and Staple the Opposite Side

   Use canvas pliers on the third side. Grip the edge, roll the pliers down over the bar to lever the fabric tight, and staple while holding the pull.

   Tip: Look for a faint diamond pattern in the fabric. It means the tension is even.

   

7. 7. Fold the Canvas Corner Inward Against the Frame

   Stop stapling about 4 inches from each corner. Pull the corner of the fabric straight back over the frame, then fold one side in so the fold sits on the inside, facing the back of the canvas.

   Tip: Use the same fold direction on all four corners for a matching look.

   

8. 8. Roll the Canvas Corner Fold So the Seam Lines Up

   Look at the side of the canvas. The seam of the fold should run straight and parallel to the edge.

   Tip: Pinch the fold flat with one hand while you staple with the other.

   

9. 9. Staple the Folded Canvas Corner to the Stretcher Bar

   Hold the fold and put a staple through it into the back of the bar. Finish stapling the rest of that side up to the corner, keeping the pull as tight as you can.

   Tip: Seal and prime the canvas before you paint on it.