Canvas Art: What Is It Made Of?

Canvas is an extremely durable fabric used for painting since the 14th century. It's also popular for displaying photographs as it is less prone to warping and cracking than wood panels, making it the ideal choice for contemporary photo galleries.

It is made from cotton, linen or hemp fibres woven into the plain weave to increase strength and flexibility. It then receives a coating of gesso, a mix of plaster of Paris and glue which prevents the canvas fibres from absorbing too much paint or colour.

Stretched canvases are a great option for artists looking to create large paintings. These canvases are typically sold by the roll and come in different weights, textures and fibres and are available primed or unprimed.

Some canvases are attached with spline bars or stretcher strips that connect to the back of the frame, allowing for easy re-stretching when necessary. Splined canvases are generally more affordable than side-stapled canvases, and they're a more flexible choice.

They also tend to be lighter than a stapled canvas, so they're easier to handle when working on a larger piece. However, splined canvases aren't always as strong as side-stapled canvases, and they may be easier to warp.

The material you choose to use to make your canvas art will determine how durable it is and what kind of work it's suited for. For example, finely woven canvases are best for smaller, detailed work, but the rougher canvas is better for more broad brush strokes and large-scale painting.

Some modern painters experiment with various materials and textures to create their work, including metal, plastic, sand, cement, straw or wood. This is known as mixed media or collage and has become increasingly popular, especially in modern art.

It's a fantastic way to add a touch of colour and creativity to any room in your home or office. This type of art can be hung at varying heights to affect your walls dramatically.

Animal prints are a trending option for wall decor, as they can be painted with acrylics, oils, or watercolours to achieve a unique style. They're a great way to add colour and texture to your space without the price tag of traditional painting.