How to fix warped canvas

Preventing and Fixing a Warped Canvas

If you are concerned about your artwork warping or have a piece that has warped over time, keep reading to discover how to prevent and fix a warped canvas.

Warping is ultimately inevitable when working with wooden stretcher bars—this is a natural characteristic of wood. Warping can be caused by a range of factors, including the climate of the space where you store your canvases and any undue weight placed on the stretcher frame, such as when it leans against a wall.

Preventing Warping
If you are worried about bowing and warping—particularly on larger canvases—consider the following:

1. Store Your Canvas in a Stable Environment
Ensure your canvas is kept in a room with a steady climate, free from extreme humidity.

Wood used for stretcher frames is a natural material and will expand or contract in response to temperature and moisture fluctuations.

2. Choose a High-Quality Stretcher Frame
The quality of your canvas plays a crucial role in its durability.

Opt for a thicker, higher-quality frame to minimize warping.
Denser wood reduces the likelihood of warping when exposed to moisture, sunlight, or temperature fluctuations.
For larger canvases (60cm and over), we recommend using a Double-Thick Canvas for added support.

3. Frame Your Finished Artwork
Applying an external frame can prevent your canvas from warping over time,

Add structural support to keep the canvas tight and improve the proportional appearance of your artwork. 
 

4. Use Proper Storage Techniques
Store your canvas flat, either horizontally or vertically, rather than leaning it against a wall.
Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture-heavy environments like bathrooms or basements.
 

How to Fix a Warped Canvas
Even with precautions, canvases may still warp over time. Here’s how to fix them:

1. Tighten a Loose Canvas
If the canvas is sagging, insert Canvas Keys into the corners of the frame.  This will increase tension and reduce any slack in the canvas.

2. Reinforce the Frame with L-Brackets
If the frame itself is warped, install L-Brackets at each corner to stabilize it.

Use a screwdriver or power drill to attach the brackets.
Be careful not to use long screws, as they can split the frame.

Preventing warping starts with choosing high-quality materials and storing canvases properly in a stable environment.

Minor warping can often be fixed by tightening the canvas with canvas keys or reinforcing the frame with L-brackets.

For long-term stability, framing your artwork or opting for an aluminium frame provides the best protection against warping over time.

Explore our canvas collection to find everything you need for a sturdy, long-lasting artwork.

 Need more advice? Email us at customerservice@artshedonline.com.au for expert recommendations!

Happy creating!