How do i build a canvass stretcher from scratch?
I’m painting with oils on canvass, and would like to build my own canvass stretchers and stretch the canvass myself rather than buying them from an art store.
I’ve built canvass stretchers before and i’ve stretched canvas before. My main question is concerning the actual build of the stretcher bars. I typically cute my lengths with the corners cut at 45degrees. I then use corrugated joint fasteners to connect the corners. I’m wondering if there is a better way.
i like using screws in the sides at each corner. i hate corrugated fasteners. i wish i could draw you a picture… you put each corner in a clamp and then put the screw in from the outside edge. alternate each corner .. so that they switch from going in at the top to going in at the side… that way the sides won’t turn or warp.
i don’t know if you only use 1×2 or what… but i had a teacher that taught us to glue quarter rounds to the top of them and nail them in with small nails…that way the canvas touches a rounded surface and there is no sharp line that appears as you paint.
crossbars are good, too, if you are making a big painting. put them in at 45 degree angles on each corner. or you can just cut out plywood triangles and nail them to the back of the stretcher.
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