Confused about
Pre-Stretched
Canvas?
Because of demand for pre-stretched canvas, the variety
of choices now available in these products has multiplied, in the dimensions
offered and the optional cloth used, such as linen or a heavier weight
of cotton.
Here’s a little background on pre-stretched canvas.
Pre-stretched canvases have an acrylic primer applied
to them -- this allows them to be painted on by both the oil painter
and painters working in acrylic.
Until recently, most pre-stretched canvas was a lightweight
(7 oz.) cotton -- but the demands for stronger and more professional
quality substrate has led to heavyweight (12 oz.) cotton as well as Belgian linen to be offered in select sizes.
Linen is a more expensive material (as anyone who
has purchased linen tablecloths can attest) -- the fibers are much longer
than cotton and hence are of superior strength. An added feature that
has appeal to many painters is the less-uniform/ more irregular surface
common to most linens.
In addition to heavier canvas, many manufacturers are offering pre-stretched
canvas on heavier stretcher bars. This adds strength
to the painting as well as a more three-dimensional, “object”-like
feel that some artists find aesthetically appealling.
The variety of sizes (and even shapes) of pre-stretched canvas has
proliferated. Smaller squares are suitable for tiling into larger works. Sizes range from as small as 1.5x2” to as large
as 30x48” and beyond!
Unless otherwise noted, all sale prices on this page valid
January 2nd thru February 28th, 2003
