A Canvas Frame refers to two distinct but related uses in the art and framing world: (1) a decorative frame that surrounds a finished canvas painting without the use of mats or glazing, and (2) the structural support system, often called a stretcher bar frame, onto which raw canvas is stretched and stapled. In both cases, the canvas frame provides stability and presentation value for artworks painted on canvas.

Types of Canvas Frames

Decorative Canvas Frame: A visible frame that borders a completed canvas painting, used to enhance its appearance and protect the edges. These frames do not include glass or mats, allowing the texture of the canvas surface to remain visible.
Stretcher or Strainer Frame: A hidden structural frame made from stretcher bars or strainer bars, designed to hold canvas taut. The canvas is stretched over the frame and fastened with staples or tacks, forming a flat, stable painting surface.

Construction

Materials: Commonly made from kiln-dried wood for rigidity, though metal stretcher systems are sometimes used.
Assembly: Stretcher bars may feature interlocking corners for adjustability, while strainer bars are fixed and non-adjustable.
Fastening: Staples, nails, or tacks secure the canvas to the frame, sometimes supplemented with canvas stretching pliers for even tension.

Applications

Used by artists to prepare raw canvas surfaces for painting.
Serves as the foundational support for oil, acrylic, or mixed media paintings.
Decorative canvas frames are applied after the artwork is finished for presentation and wall display.
Essential for gallery-wrapped canvases, where the artwork extends around the edges of the stretcher bars and may not require additional framing.

Advantages

Provides necessary structural support for canvas paintings.
Allows the natural texture of canvas to remain visible without glass obstruction.
Decorative framing enhances visual appeal and protects canvas edges from handling damage.
Adjustable stretcher frames can be tightened over time to correct canvas slack or warping.

Best Practices

Select stretcher bars that are straight, kiln-dried, and resistant to warping.
Use proper canvas stretching tools to maintain even tension and avoid ripples.
For decorative frames, choose one that complements the artwork style without overwhelming it.
Avoid glazing directly against canvas surfaces, as trapped moisture can damage paint layers.

Canvas Frame