Canvas sagging is a pervasive issue that can plague printmakers, manifesting either shortly after framing or much later, diminishing the integrity and visual appeal of a fine art print. As a team of hands-on fine art professionals, we at Breathing Color deeply empathize with this frustrating challenge. We've encountered countless instances of loosely wrapped canvas prints and, through our extensive experience, have distilled our most effective strategies into a comprehensive guide designed to help you avoid this common pitfall. This guide delves into critical aspects, from meticulous stretching techniques to the often-overlooked influence of environmental factors, offering our best advice to ensure your canvas prints remain taut and pristine for years to come.
Understanding the causes of canvas sag is the first step towards prevention. Factors such as improper stretching, variations in humidity and temperature, the quality of the canvas itself, and even the type of stretcher bars used can all contribute to a loose canvas. We aim to equip you with the knowledge and techniques necessary to proactively address these issues, safeguarding the longevity and aesthetic value of your artwork. By implementing the following five expert tips, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of canvas sag, ensuring your prints maintain their original, gallery-quality presentation.
1. Pay Attention to the Weave
Horizontal sag is most common, typically across the canvas weave.
For example, a 17″ x 30″ printed with the weave going across (horizontal) can tend to sag in the 30″ direction. So take note of the direction of your weave when framing.
2. Staple the Long Sides First
Staple a clean line on the longest side and then move to the opposite side and staple a clean line. This will help spread the tension evenly.
In a 24″ x 48″ piece, you would start with the 48″ side, then move to the OPPOSITE 48″ side, not around the edge of the frame.
3. Add Cross Bars After Wrapping
Instead of adding cross bars (B) as you frame and tighten, or adding a single bar, a good way to avoid sag is adding these after the frame is fully wrapped, stapled, and glued.
This will force the last little bit of loosened canvas to pull in and keep tight.
Also, tapping in corner keys (A) very well after framing will add even more tension.
4. Use Archival Glue
Putting a bead of archival glue on the stretcher bars as you set that edge on the frame helps to keep it all even and flat on the front of the frame.
This does depend on the type of stretcher bars you use, if there’s an inset lip (see image above) then it should work.
Consider adding this to your workflow if you don’t already.
5. Work in a High Humidity Environment
If you can stretch/frame in a humid environment, the canvas takes in this humidity and relaxes even more.
This will then give you an even tighter stretch as it’s moved into drier environments and shrinks up again.
We are here to help
Now that you've reviewed our tips, don't forget that our tech and color support specialists have a wealth of knowledge and are just an email or phone call away.Â
Let us help you deliver the best experience with your stretched canvas prints.
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