How do I build stretcher bars?

Question

I want to build my own stretcher bars. I'm hoping for economical, archival oil painting surface that I can do my self. I'm concerned with the keys and being able to adjust the tension. If I want my paintings to last. are keys necessary?

Answer 1

well hello  I think this book is a must for any artist worth their salt you will find your answer on page 40.

Answer 2

Between the cost of materials, the tools, and the effort involved, you may be better off buying pre-made stretcher bars - they're only a couple of bucks a pair.

1. Your stretchers have to have a beveled edge, not a flat surface, so the canvas doesn't rub on the inside edge and leave a ridge of paint. This requires the use of an electric router.

2. The stretchers have to be sanded extremely well, especially the corners, so as not to cut into the canvas. Takes lots of time since it has to be hand-sanded to keep from getting dips & gouges.

3. There's no way to use tension keys if you build your own stretchers & fit the corners using either a mitred corner or even a dovetail.

Tension is not a big issue if you're stretching raw canvas and using rabbit skin glue sizing to shrink the canvas. But if using pre-primed canvas on a large-ish frame, the keys can be very helpful in adding tension.