Canvas Framing 101: Transform Your Art with Ease

Matte and Satin Canvas are two popular media types offered by Posterprintshop, but, like all of our media, we carefully roll and ship canvas prints in round cardboard tubes, ready for finishing or framing when you receive it.  Many artists and photographers order canvas from us to use when they do not want the canvas mounted or framed.  If you need your canvas mounted or framed, we recommend another services that specializes in this, or, you can learn how to mount and frame your canvas print with our handy guide below!

How to frame a canvas print can transform an artwork from a simple piece to a gallery-ready masterpiece in your home. Canvas prints, with their rich texture and vivid colors, offer a beautiful way to showcase your favorite photos or artwork. Framing adds that essential finishing touch, providing protection and enhancing aesthetics. Here’s a quick guide to get you started:

1. Measure Your Canvas: Determine the dimensions required for a frame.
2. Choose a Frame Style: Decide between options like floater, wood, or metallic frames.
3. Prepare Materials: Gather tools such as stretcher bars, staple guns, and canvas pliers.
4. Wrap or Mount Canvas if Necessary: Stretch rolled prints before securing them within a frame.
5. Assemble and Display: Fit the canvas securely in the frame, hang, and enjoy!

Understanding your framing options can make this process straightforward, ensuring a stunning result that beautifully improves your decor.

I’m Erica Gabriel, with experience in custom large-format printing and an entrepreneurial spirit, I have dedicated many years to refining the art of how to frame a canvas print. Let’s further explore how to frame these stunning creations to best capture and improve your cherished images.

How to frame a canvas print word list:
– how to print on canvas
– large canvas prints
– custom canvas print

Understanding Canvas Prints

Canvas prints are a popular way to display art and photography. They offer a unique texture and depth that traditional paper prints can’t match. Before diving into how to frame a canvas print, it’s important to understand the types of canvas prints available: stretched canvas, rolled canvas, and woven fabric.

Stretched Canvas

A stretched canvas is a canvas print that has been pulled tightly over a wooden frame, known as stretcher bars. This method is popular because it gives the artwork a professional, finished look. The tension in the canvas keeps it smooth and flat, allowing the image to be displayed without distortion. Stretched canvases are ready to hang and often don’t require additional framing, though many choose to add a frame for extra protection and style.

Rolled Canvas

Rolled canvases are prints that have not yet been mounted on a frame. They are shipped in a tube and need to be stretched onto stretcher bars before they can be displayed. This option is ideal for those who want to customize their framing or for international shipping, as it reduces the risk of damage. Stretching a rolled canvas requires some tools, like a staple gun and canvas pliers, but it allows for a custom fit and personal touch.

Woven Fabric

The fabric used in canvas prints is usually made of cotton or a cotton-poly blend. This woven fabric is what gives canvas prints their signature texture. The weave of the fabric can vary, affecting the final appearance of the print. A tighter weave provides a smoother finish, while a looser weave offers a more pronounced texture. The choice of fabric can influence the vibrancy of the colors and the overall feel of the artwork.

Understanding these different types of canvas prints helps in selecting the right framing method and materials, ensuring your artwork looks its best. Whether you prefer the immediate display of a stretched canvas or the customization of a rolled canvas, each option offers unique benefits suited to different needs and tastes.

Next, we’ll explore the various framing techniques that can transform these canvas prints into stunning works of art.

How to Frame a Canvas Print

Framing canvas prints is a great way to improve their appearance and protect them. Whether you’re dealing with a stretched or rolled canvas, choosing the right frame and tools is key. Let’s explore the specifics of how to frame a canvas print.

Framing Stretched Canvas Prints

For stretched canvas prints, framing is more about style than necessity since the canvas is already mounted on stretcher bars. Here are a few options:

• Wood Frames: These are classic and versatile, offering a warm, traditional look. When selecting a wood frame, ensure the rabbet (the recess on the frame’s back) is larger than the thickness of the stretcher bar to fit the canvas snugly. If the rabbet is too shallow, it might force the canvas away from the wall.
• Metal Frames: These provide a sleek, modern appearance. Metal frames come with adjustable hardware, making them easy to work with. However, if the rabbet is deeper than the stretcher bar, use spring clips to secure the canvas.
• Floater Frames: Perfect for showcasing the entire canvas, floater frames create the illusion that the canvas is floating within the frame. They require offset clips to hold the canvas, providing a contemporary look that highlights the artwork.

Framing Rolled Canvas Prints

Rolled canvas prints need to be stretched before framing. Here’s how to get started:

1. Stretcher Bars: Assemble these into a frame. Use solid wood for durability, as weak wood can warp over time. Make sure the corners are square and secure.
2. Stretching the Canvas: Lay the canvas face down, center the frame on it, and use canvas pliers to pull it taut. Start stapling the canvas to the frame from the center of each side, working your way out to maintain even tension.
3. Tools Needed: A staple gun is essential for securing the canvas to the stretcher bars. Canvas pliers help achieve the right tension, ensuring a smooth, wrinkle-free finish.
4. Choosing a Frame: Once stretched, you can choose any of the frames mentioned above. Make sure the frame complements the artwork and fits the stretched canvas properly.

By understanding these framing techniques, you can transform both stretched and rolled canvas prints into stunning pieces that improve your space. Up next, we’ll explore some DIY techniques for those who want a hands-on approach to framing their canvas prints.

DIY Canvas Framing Techniques

Framing a canvas print yourself can be a rewarding project. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can create a beautiful frame that improves your artwork. Let’s explore some DIY canvas framing techniques using a few essential tools: a DIY wood frame, a miter saw, and a nail gun.

Building a DIY Wood Frame

1. Gather Materials: You’ll need wood pieces for the frame, a miter saw for cutting, a nail gun for assembly, and some finishing supplies like sandpaper and stain or paint.
2. Measure and Cut: Start by measuring the dimensions of your canvas. Use a miter saw to cut your wood pieces at a 45-degree angle. This will help the corners fit together neatly. Be precise with your cuts to ensure the frame fits perfectly around the canvas.
3. Assemble the Frame: Lay out the wood pieces to form a rectangle or square. Use a nail gun to secure the corners together. Pin nails, such as 1-inch (23 gauge), work well for this task. A nail gun makes the process quick and ensures the frame is sturdy.
4. Fill and Sand: Once assembled, fill any nail holes or gaps in the joints with a wood filler, like DAP Plastic Wood-X. This product is great because it changes color as it dries, so you’ll know when it’s ready to sand. After drying, sand the frame smooth for a polished look.
5. Finish the Frame: Apply stain or paint to achieve the desired look. If you want the natural beauty of the wood to shine through, a light stain can improve the wood grain without darkening it too much.

Tools and Tips

• Miter Saw: Essential for cutting accurate angles. Ensure it’s set to 45 degrees for perfect corner joints.
• Nail Gun: Speeds up the assembly process and provides a secure hold. If you don’t have one, small finishing nails and a hammer can be used, but this may require more effort.
• Wood Selection: Choose a wood type that complements your artwork and home decor. Pine is a popular choice for its affordability and ease of use.

This DIY approach to framing not only saves money but also allows for customization to match your personal style. With a little effort, you can create a frame that transforms your canvas print into a standout piece of art.

Next, we’ll tackle some frequently asked questions about framing canvas prints to help you get the most out of your DIY framing project.

Frequently Asked Questions about Framing Canvas Prints

Can you frame a canvas in a floating frame?

Absolutely! Framing a canvas in a floating frame creates a modern and neat look. To do this, choose a frame slightly larger than your canvas. Attach the canvas to the frame using clips or screws, leaving a small gap between the canvas and the frame. This gives the illusion that the canvas is “floating” inside the frame, adding depth and sophistication to your artwork.

What is the best way to frame a canvas print?

The best way to frame a canvas print depends on your personal preferences and the style of your artwork. Here are a few popular options:

• Floating Frames: Ideal for contemporary pieces, they highlight the edges of the canvas.
• Wood Frames: Offer a classic look and come in various finishes to complement different styles.
• Metal Frames: Provide a sleek, modern appearance and are durable.

Consider the colors and theme of your artwork when choosing a frame. A frame that contrasts with the canvas can make the art pop, while a matching frame can create a harmonious look.

How do you frame a canvas at home?

Framing a canvas at home is a straightforward process if you have the right tools and materials. Here’s a simple guide:

1. Gather Materials: You’ll need a frame slightly larger than your canvas, mounting materials like clips or screws, and optional acid-free materials to protect the artwork.
2. Prepare the Frame: Lay the frame face down on a flat surface. Place the canvas inside with the decorated side down.
3. Attach the Canvas: Use clips or screws to secure the canvas to the frame. Make sure the canvas is tight and centered.
4. Check Your Work: Turn the frame over to ensure the canvas is snug and the frame complements the artwork.

Using acid-free materials can help protect your canvas from deterioration over time, ensuring your artwork remains vibrant and beautiful.

Conclusion

Framing your canvas print can transform your artwork from simple to stunning.  If anything in the above guide seems too complicated to you, you can always take your canvas prints to a local framing shop or hobby store where they can mount and frame your canvas prints for you.

Why Choose Posterprintshop?

• Unframed Canvas:   Posterprintshop does not mount or frame any of our media types, including canvas.   Many photographers and artists prefer to use Posterprintshop to receive raw, rolled, professional prints that they can finish as they desire after receiving the prints from us.
• Quality Materials: We use only the best materials to ensure your canvas prints are vibrant and long-lasting. Both our satin and matte canvas media are true professional artist canvas that replicate the feel of fine art and paintings.   Many artists even paint over the prints they receive from us.
• Fast Turnaround and Affordable Prices: With our quick service and competitive pricing, you can enjoy high-quality canvas prints without breaking the bank. Our online platform makes it easy to customize your order, and you can receive your canvas prints as fast as tomorrow if you order before Noon Pacific and choose overnight shipping!

Transform your canvas prints into eye-catching art pieces that can be proudly displayed in your home or office. Visit our Canvas Prints page to choose a finish and start your order.  We offer both matte and satin canvas finishes.

With Posterprintshop, your art is in expert hands. Let us help you make your canvas prints the centerpiece of any room.