What Are Stretcher Bars?
Stretcher bars are wooden frames used to stretch and support canvas in art and printing applications. They are an essential component in the preparation of canvases for painting or printing, ensuring the canvas remains taut and flat.
Components and Construction
- Materials: Typically made from durable, lightweight wood such as pine, fir, or spruce. High-quality stretcher bars are kiln-dried to prevent warping over time.
- Profile: They come in various profiles (shapes and thicknesses) to accommodate different canvas sizes and styles. Common profiles include standard, gallery, and heavy-duty.
- Interlocking Corners: Stretcher bars are designed with mitered corners that fit together snugly. Some have interlocking corners or slots for added stability and ease of assembly
- Stretcher bars are a critical component in both traditional and digital art, providing the support needed to showcase artwork beautifully and professionally.