Canvas is a great surface on which to paint, but can be subject to dents and tears when moving and storing, and can stretch and sag when exposed to changing temperature and humidity over time. If not stored properly, with the frame or stretchers securely resting against another frame or flat hard surface, a corner from one painting can poke into the canvas of another, leaving an unfortunate dent. All is not lost, though. There are several things you can do to rectify the situation and smooth out the dent. Following are some tips from readers as well as others.
Removing a Dent or Bump in a Canvas
Tightening a Stretched Canvas
- Tightening an already stretched canvas is easy: I use a mister or a spray bottle with plain water (cold or hot). Spray the back of the canvas, then using your hand or a damp sponge spread the mist around and right up to and under the stretcher bars. Don’t over-wet the canvas – it’s not necessary to wet it to the point of dripping, after all. Cotton duct canvas is made from 100% cotton and you know how cotton shrinks, right? Repeat, if necessary, after it dries, which is almost immediately. Tip from: Linda FolksThe Masterpiece Artist Canvas Tight-n-Up Canvas Retensioner Spray mentioned above can also be used to tighten a loose canvas. Spray the solution over the whole back of the canvas and the surface tighten as it dries.You can also use canvas keys that come with some pre-made stretchers to correct loose and sagging canvases.
