How to Frame Canvas Prints (Step-by-Step Guide)

Nearly all framing projects are pretty easy to do. However, with certain types of artwork such as canvas prints, it may not be as easy as it’ll require more time and extra components to get the job done. Canvas is a woven fabric that artists can use to paint on or have their printed on with certain types of printers. You can purchase a canvas print rolled or one that is already stretched to a wooden frame.

Canvases that are bought on stretcher bars will need another frame be it a metal or wood picture frame while for rolled canvases, you will need first to stretch them and then place them on stretcher bar before you can frame it. That said, below is how you can frame your canvas prints.

Measure your Canvas

If you want to successfully frame your canvas print, the first step will be to measure your canvas. You can easily do this using a tape measure in order to know the exact width, length as well as the canvas’ depth. Ensure you note down the measurements as they will come in handy when you go shopping for your perfect frame. When measuring your canvas, ensure you pay attention as getting the wrong dimensions of your canvas will mean that you end up with the wrong size of frame.

Choosing a Frame

When choosing a frame, ensure you find one that compliments your choice of canvas. Just as there are different variances in canvases, there are also different variances in frames. As such, find a frame that has some contrast with the canvas it’ll hold. This way, you won’t have a frame that has the same color as the canvas. You can also opt to get your frame for a craft store or online. Once you know the size of the frame you need, you can call different stores and inquire whether they have the size of the frame you need. This way, you won’t have to make multiple trips to the store.

Framing the Canvas Prints

Once you have picked the right frame from your canvas prints, it’s now time to frame your prints. The first step is to tuck the canvas print into the frame. Place the frame facing down and insert the canvas inside it, ensuring that the printed/painted side faces down. When tucking the canvas print into the frame, ensure that you don’t scratch the painted side and that the canvas is placed on the inner lip of the frame. The canvas shouldn’t be uneven, and in case it is, take it out and place it to sit perfectly.

Once the tucking is done, proceed to stretch the canvas to fit perfectly and start stapling the sides and then the corners. You can choose to work on one side and then move to the next until all sides are done. When clipping or stapling the canvas, ensure that you press the clip hard enough to secure it in place and to space them evenly.

When you are done clipping the canvas to the frame, turn your canvas print carefully over and check your finished product. The frame needs to fit nicely around the canvas. If it’s not, you should consider pushing the clips down a little bit. The final step will be to fix a wire hanger at the back for of your frame in case it didn’t come with one so that you can use it to hang your framed canvas on the wall.

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