What qualities to look for in Canvases you purchase for your artwork

The first canvases were made from hemp, but at present cotton and linen are the most commonly used. A canvas specific to painting can be made up from materials such as linen or cotton and occasionally, synthetic materials are also used, but are not favourable amongst professional artists.  The weight of the fabric is used to denote the thickness of the threads and the tension of the weaving within it. Principally, different types of canvases have different type of textures and weigh differently. Smaller canvases or cheaper versions are usually aimed at small craft projects. Linen is very popular amongst artists of a professional standard given that the threads are very fine and tightly woven, creating a perfect painting surface for many.

Canvas has long been a preferred surface for artists to express themselves on. Devised in the thirteenth century, canvas was a great substitute for the wooden panels typically used when painting with medium such as oils, before mediums like acrylic paint existed. The fabric is widely respected for its endurance and long lasting nature. Once appropriately primed, the fabric itself can sustain a painted surface for many years without too much wear. With that in mind canvases have a proven record of standing the test of time.

Alternatively stretching your own canvas can enrich the creative experience of painting your own masterpiece. Canvas supplies are easily obtainable and can be located in most art supply stores and online. To stretch canvas you will need to purchase canvas on a roll first and foremost. Stretchers are also crucial as these are the components which make up the frame for your canvas.  Generally a staple gun is also useful to attach the canvas to the frame. A great advantage to creating your own surface is the control you have over every element, so you can choose the quality of the canvas, the size you wish to work with and the tension you will need for your artwork.

If you are a student of art or are simply starting out there are cheaper alternatives to professional artist canvases available that still maintain great quality. If you are simply experimenting and playing around with different methods and mediums, it is a great way to build up a relationship with canvas before buying more professional types. Obviously you can move onto more expensive options when you have mastered your technique. There are plenty of canvases available from reputable art suppliers so for a great art project or final piece you can always source the art supplies you will need to complete it.

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