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How to Stretch Printed Canvas

Today's digital technology allows the printing of photos and artworks on a canvas. This gives an artsy feel to the images and the images may go in a frame the same way as a paper print out. Another option is to stretch the printed canvas across the frame in an art painting style. Stretching a printed canvas is simply a matter of grabbing, pulling and stapling, a technique that is not difficult and worth a try.

Things You'll Need

  • Stretcher Frame
  • Printer canvas
  • Measuring tape
  • Handheld staple gun
  • Staples
  • Stretcher pliers (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the size of the stretcher frame needed. It should be approximately 3 inches shorter on each side of the printer canvas.

    • 2

      Lay the canvas out and center the stretcher frame on top. Fold over one side of the canvas and place a staple in the center.

    • 3

      Pull the opposite side of the canvas tight, then place the second staple in the center.

    • 4

      Repeat the process to the other two sides, pulling the canvas taut before placing the staple. Use the stretcher pliers to help pull the canvas tight, if desired.

    • 5

      Go back to the first staple and grab the canvas, pull tight and place another staple approximately 2 inches to the right. Repeat to the left side of the centered staple.

    • 6

      Continue the process to the other three sides of the canvas up to the corner.

    • 7

      Pull the corner flap tight, fold over and then staple. Repeat to the other three corners.

    • 8

      Turn the print over and check for sags or creases. Adjust if necessary, by pulling out the staple, pull until taut and then staple.

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Fine Art

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