Whether you’re ordering canvas prints to display or to sell, you should know the differences between canvas styles. There are certain instances when you may want to use a stretched canvas rather than a loose one, and vice versa. Keep reading to learn when to use stretched versus unstretched canvas prints in your home, for art reproductions, and more.
When To Use Stretched Canvas Prints
A stretched canvas print is a loose print stretched over a wooden frame. This style is also called a wrapped print because the craftsperson wraps the canvas around the frame and secures it by stapling the material to the wooden bars. Stretched canvases are ready to hang and display as they are; they don’t require framing or any additional finishes, although you can select frames to protect them.
Stretched canvas prints are ideal for those looking for ready-to-display pieces of art. Some museums and galleries prefer this style, which is why they are also called gallery-wrapped prints. If you’re looking for artwork with a more professional and finished appearance, choose stretched canvas.
When To Use Unstretched Canvas Prints
An unstretched canvas print is simply loose canvas material with the art or design printed on the front. These prints don’t come with the stretcher bars and frame backing that wrapped prints have. This means that loose canvases are typically more affordable than stretched ones, which is ideal if you’re working on a budget. However, you’ll either need to stretch the material yourself or find a frame that supports canvas materials before displaying this type of reproduction. This is ideal for embellishing or modifying the prints for a special finishing process.
Which To Choose
The choice between stretched and unstretched canvas prints primarily comes down to personal preference and the finishing process. If you’re ordering prints of your artwork to sell to clients, choose the format that best reflects and highlights your art. Regardless of whether you mount or stretch your pieces, canvas is a terrific material choice for artists who prefer to work on textured surfaces, such as canvas or cold-press paper. The textured material can highlight this aspect of your original work, even in print form.
The next time you’re having trouble deciding between stretched and unstretched canvas prints, remember these suggestions for when to use them. Whether you’re looking for loose or gallery wrapped canvas prints, you can find plenty of options at The Stackhouse. Browse our selection of print options for your art business today.
