Canvas Picture Frames

What makes a frame "right" for stretched canvas?

Stretched canvas is commonly framed without glass or mats because the surface is textured and may be finished with varnish or laminate. A canvas-appropriate wood frame is built to accommodate the canvas depth and present the artwork with a clean, finished edge.

If you're new to the terminology, see Stretched Canvas, Rabbet, and Rabbet Depth.

How to measure so the frame fits

Most fit issues come from mixing up the canvas face size, the frame's outside size, and the canvas thickness. Order by the canvas size as specified on the product page, then confirm depth/clearance details before checkout.

• Canvas width & height (front face): measure the visible face of the stretched canvas.
• Canvas thickness: measure the depth of the stretcher bars.
• Edge finish: note whether the canvas edges are painted/finished and meant to remain visible.

For a general measuring refresher, use How to Measure Artwork for a Custom Picture Frame and Custom Frame Sizes.

Depth considerations (standard vs. thicker canvases)

Before ordering, verify that the frame's rabbet depth/clearance accommodates your canvas thickness-especially if your canvas is a thicker "gallery wrap." If your depth is unusual, review the product fit notes carefully and seek guidance before purchasing.

Style choices: wood profile, finish, and liners

Wood frames can shift the presentation from casual to formal depending on profile and finish. For a more tailored transition between artwork and frame, consider adding a liner.

• Frame liner option: a fabric liner can soften the visual break between canvas and frame. Learn more in Frame Liner and Fabric Frame Liner.
• Coordinating liner styles: browse Picture Frame Linen Liners for liner looks that pair well with canvas framing.

When this category is NOT the best choice

• If you want a floating gap around the canvas: choose a floater style instead-shop Floater Frames for Canvas or read The Complete Guide To Choosing A Floater Frame.
• If your artwork needs glazing or matting: paper-based art and photos typically call for a different framing approach than stretched canvas.

Helpful reference: what installation looks like

To visualize how a stretched canvas sits in a wood frame, see Stretched Canvas Installed Into Wood Frame.