Stretcher Bars and Stretcher Frames

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All Stretcher Frames, Frames and Bars Frames, Mats Packing Materials for Artists Reproduction Production
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About this category
In short

You can assemble a stretcher frame from four stretcher bars: two cut to the width and two to the height of the painting. We make our spruce stretcher bars in our own workshop in three profiles: classic ARTMiE 3.5 × 2 cm, Gallery 4.5 × 2 cm, and a deep bar for 3D canvases. Reinforce larger frames with a center or crossbar, and tighten the canvas with keys.

Which stretcher bars should you choose?

Stretcher bar Profile Use
ARTMiE Stretcher Bar width 3.5 cm, thickness 2 cm classic stretcher frame, same profile as our PROFI canvases
Gallery Stretcher Bar width 4.5 cm, thickness 2 cm wider, sturdier frame; from 70 cm in length, with a notch for a center bar
Stretcher Bar for 3D Canvases width 3 cm, thickness 3.8 cm deep frame, so the painting does not need to be framed
Crossbars and Center Bars depending on the frame type reinforce larger frames to keep them from warping
Stretcher Keys wood, 8 pcs retighten the canvas if it becomes loose

All stretcher bars are made of spruce. Quality wood minimizes warping, so the frame stays straight even after the canvas is stretched.

How do you assemble a stretcher frame for canvas?

You need four stretcher bars for one frame: two the length of the painting’s width and two the length of its height. Assemble a 50 × 70 cm frame from two 50 cm bars and two 70 cm bars. Fit the bars together at the corners, check that the angles are square, and stretch the canvas. Our guide How to Stretch Canvas onto a Frame walks you through the steps.

You can find canvas for stretching in our canvas rolls / canvas by the meter category, in cotton and linen. If you don’t want to stretch it yourself, choose a ready-made stretched canvas.

When do you need a center bar or crossbar?

A center bar reinforces stretcher frames wider than 70 cm. When both frame dimensions exceed 100 cm, use a crossbar to keep the frame from warping and the canvas evenly stretched. We offer crossbars for classic ARTMiE frames (from 83.2 cm), Gallery frames, and 3D frames.

What are stretcher keys for?

If the canvas becomes loose over time, insert the keys into the corner slots in the stretcher bars to tighten it again. Learn more in the article How to Tighten Loose Canvas.

Video: How to properly insert wooden keys

Frames for Finished Artwork and Hanging

This category also includes metal frames with plexiglass and picture-hanging hooks. You can find more frames and mats (passe-partout) in the frames and mats category.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a stretcher frame and a picture frame?

A stretcher frame is a wooden structure made of stretcher bars that the canvas is stretched over. It is not visible from the front. A picture frame is a decorative frame that holds a finished piece of artwork.

How many stretcher bars do I need for one frame?

Four: two the length of the artwork’s width and two the length of its height. For frames wider than 70 cm, add a center bar. For large formats, add a crossbar.

Which stretcher bar should I use for a deep 3D frame?

A stretcher bar for 3D canvases with a thickness of 3.8 cm. A canvas stretched over a deep frame has a modern look, and the artwork does not need a frame.

When should I use stretcher keys?

When a stretched canvas becomes loose or wavy. Insert a key into the groove in the corner of the frame and gently tap it in until the canvas is taut again.