-
What stretcher bars do i need for canvas?
I’ve read through some old threads and am going to order some stretcher bars in to make our own frames.
I want to be able to make custom sizes and not stick to standards but it seems that most have a profile for the join that would not allow this. This would then leave the issue of not being able to use tensioners as they also fit into this profile (I think). Does it mean I just have to use standard sizes or is there another method that I could use.Any tips gladly appreciated.
Cheers
Gavin
-
9 Replies
-
I only stock three frame sizes but most suppliers increment the bars in small amounts. Alternatively you can look into making dovetail joints which is what the stretcher bars are I think.
-
Jason, do you buy your frames from HVG?
-
Hey Shane,
I got my frames fabricated in China. Got about 2,000 frames in my three sizes.
Cheers
-
😮 I send clients to a framer/client usually, but more and more are asking if I supply the frames as well.
2000 would last me til my retirement 😉
-
Yeh I’ve still got a heap of frames left. Wasn’t that many about 4 pallets worth. But they have paid for themselves now.
I actually did get a few other sizes like 120cm by 90cm and 160cm by 120cm but they are only for special occasions.
The cost from China was a lot lower then what I could get locally fabricated frames.
-
Any Picture framing supplier should be able to supply the stretcher bar moulding They are usually about 3meters in length. Pine with a basic rectangular profile one corner is rounded and the top surface has a slight angle to keep the canvas of of the bar when stretched. Framers cut at 45 degrees then underpin at any size. when stretching with a hand stretcher the pivot point hooks under the inside bottom edge. so you shouldn’t have any problems. If I can help further just pm me ( my wife is a picture framer and has made many many stretcher frames including a 1800mm x 1200mm indigenous art piece.
Cheers Mike -
quote Michael Potter:Any Picture framing supplier should be able to supply the stretcher bar moulding They are usually about 3meters in length. Pine with a basic rectangular profile one corner is rounded and the top surface has a slight angle to keep the canvas of of the bar when stretched. Framers cut at 45 degrees then underpin at any size. when stretching with a hand stretcher the pivot point hooks under the inside bottom edge. so you shouldn’t have any problems. If I can help further just pm me ( my wife is a picture framer and has made many many stretcher frames including a 1800mm x 1200mm indigenous art piece.
Cheers MikeHis wife is an excellent framer I might add. One of her stretched canvas jobs hangs proudly in my house .
-
The reason they are jointed is because they should not be fixed or underpinned at the corners. Once the canvas is stretched and fitted Stretcher bars have slots so you insert triangle wedges to further tighten the print. Also after a period of time the canvas can be tightened again if it has gone loose. Just check out the internet.
-
Many thanks for the tips and pointers on this, particularly to Mike for your advice on the PM’s.
I’ve ordered some lengths and will be experimenting for a while before I try and flog any to unsuspecting punters… errr sell any to customers!
Log in to reply.
