Why should a painter learn how to make his/her own canvas stretcher?
1. He/she considers components of "quality" to be important to her work and practice.
Some artists care about the quality of the supplies they use to make art (paint, brushes, canvas and frames), and they refuse to rely on a sub-par commercial products for their work.
2. Artists are visionaries.
Artwork should not revolve around the supplies available, instead, artists needs to be a resource to make whatever they envision. Knowing how to build frames enables creators to go as small or large as they need - and it allows the canvas shape to be more innovative: square, triangle, rectangle, shaped ... the possibilities are endless!
3. Power tools are empowerment.
It feels good to look at a tool and say, "I can use that!" Being adept with power tools provides people with the power to make and fix whatever they need - in the studio or the home. This also frees the artist to explore other avenues - sculpture, installation, assemblage, etc.
A NOTE ABOUT SAFETY.
This site is meant to be a general aide to the formation of a canvas stretcher. The tools that I am using will be different than the tools the reader uses, so read the manuals to YOUR power tools. Specifically, learn where the safety switches and automatic turn off buttons are; study the upkeep and storage recommendations; and though I want you to feel confident using tools - never become unconcerned about them. It is important to always be alert and serious when using tools, no matter how proficient you become.
Carpenters all over the world abide by these rules:
1. Measure twice.
2. It is better to cut too large than two small.
3. Be picky and patient ... fiddle with it until it is perfect.
