Stretched Canvas

Stretched Canvas

Definition

Stretched Canvas refers to a canvas fabric that has been stretched and secured over a wooden stretcher bar frame to create a taut surface suitable for painting. The tensioned canvas provides stability and ensures a flat, consistent painting surface.

Materials

• Canvas: Typically cotton or linen, primed or unprimed for oil or acrylic paints.
• Stretcher Bars: Wooden bars designed to interlock and form a rigid frame for stretching the canvas.
• Staples or Tacks: Used to attach the canvas to the stretcher bars securely.

Function

• Provides a firm and smooth surface for painting.
• Allows artists to create gallery-ready artworks that can be framed without additional backing.
• Supports Gallery Wrap techniques where canvas edges are painted and wrapped around the sides of the frame.

Applications

• Fine art painting using oils, acrylics, or mixed media.
• Professional framing with a Canvas Frame or for display as-is.
• Preparation for varnishing, printing, or reproduction of original artworks.

Related Terms

• Strainer Bar
• Canvas Frame
• Canvas Stretching Tool
• Gallery Wrap