FRAMING

Canvas Stretching

Our Three Professional Stretching Styles

We offer three distinct methods depending on your artwork’s requirements and whether you plan to add a decorative frame later.

1. Regular Stretching (The Traditionalist)

The Method: The canvas is stretched over regular deep wooden bars. Staples are placed on the sides of the bars.
Best For: Art that is intended to be placed into a traditional “lip” frame.
The Benefit: This is the most cost-effective method for standard framing. The shallower depth allows the piece to fit into almost any molding profile without sticking out from the wall.

2. Gallery Stretching (The Modern Minimalist)

The Method: We use deep profile bars. The canvas is wrapped entirely around the edges and stapled on the back.
Best For: Contemporary art where the painting continues around the sides, or for those who want a “frameless” look.
The Benefit: This creates a bold, architectural presence on the wall. Because the staples are hidden on the reverse side, the edges are clean and professional, allowing the art to stand alone without a frame. Gallery Stretching method also perfect for framing in Floater Frames.

3. Multi-Panel & Modular Stretching

What is Modular Stretching?

Sometimes, a single canvas isn’t enough to capture the scale of a landscape or the energy of an abstract piece. Our Modular Stretching service takes a single printed image and breathes life into it by dividing it across multiple panels.

Since 2012, North Framing Atelier has mastered the geometry required to align split-image prints perfectly across your walls.

One Masterpiece. Unlimited Dimension.

Modular stretching is the process of mounting a single cohesive artwork—usually a high-resolution print—onto 3, 4, or 5 separate stretcher bars. When hung together with consistent spacing, the “breaks” in the image create a rhythmic, modern window effect that adds depth to any room.

Popular Configurations:

The Triptych (3 Panels): The classic choice. Perfect for balanced symmetry over a sofa or bed.
The Quad (4 Panels): A modern, rhythmic layout often used for panoramic cityscapes.
The Polyptych (5+ Panels): The ultimate statement piece. We can vary the heights of the panels (e.g., a “mountain” shape) to create a dynamic focal point.

Why Choose Modular Framing?

Cohesive Flow: We ensure the image wraps around the edges of each panel so the “story” of the art continues seamlessly through the gaps.
Scale Without the Weight: One giant 3-meter frame can be heavy and difficult to transport. Breaking the art into modules makes it lightweight, easy to hang, and easy to move.

Architectural Interest: The 2cm to 5cm gaps between the modules introduce “white space” from your wall into the art, making the display feel integrated into your home’s architecture.

Bringing Art Home from Abroad?

Have you purchased a rolled canvas during your travels? Bringing it back to life is our specialty. We carefully inspect the paint layer for flexibility before stretching to ensure no cracking occurs.

Preservation Tip: The “Drum” Test

“A properly stretched canvas should sound like a drum when lightly tapped. If it feels like a pillow, it’s under-tensioned; if it feels like a board, it’s over-strained. We find the perfect ‘Middle C’ for every piece.” – S. Balan (CEO)