Our stretchers do not require glue for assembly. Instead they incorporate mortise, tenon joints and wedge keys, allowing the stretcher bar to be adjustable.

Learn how to assemble a canvas frame		Learn how to stretch a canvas
Lay out the basic stretcher components and mallet.		Select the corresponding sizes of stretcher strips
Slide two corner pieces together and align mitre for a flush fit.		Fold one side of the canvas over a short end of the frame, and nail or staple at the center of the strip
Insert second corner pieces together.		Reverse to the opposite side, using canvas pliers to grip the canvas and nail or staple. Repeat on the other side.
Before adding opposite sides insert cross braces, if you need them.		Work into the corners pulling the canvas taut with canvas pliers.
Insert another cross brace  and the brace tenon into mortise.		To reduce canvas bulk in the corners, first fold as in shown and secure with staple.
Insert mortise into brace, and connect last corner		Do second fold as shown and secure.
Gently hammer together all corners and brace joints with a mallet until they are firmly in place and the corners are flush.		Grip the canvas and nail or staple all the remaining corners.
Insert wedge into corner and then repeat process on the other corner braces.		Insert wedge into corner and then repeat process on the other corner braces.
The Finished Assembly		The Finished Stretched Artists' Canvas