How to flatten paint by numbers canvas easily
When you receive a paint-by-numbers kit, the canvas is often rolled for shipping. This helps protect the artwork but can leave the canvas slightly curved or wrinkled when you first open it.
Before starting your painting, it is helpful to flatten the canvas so it lies smoothly on your workspace. A flat canvas makes painting easier and helps you achieve cleaner results.
Fortunately, flattening a paint-by-numbers canvas is simple and can be done using several easy methods.
1. Place the canvas under heavy books
One of the easiest ways to flatten a canvas is by placing it under heavy books.
Lay the canvas face down on a clean table or floor. Place several large books evenly across the surface of the canvas and leave them there for several hours or overnight.
This method works well for light wrinkles and gentle curling.
2. Roll the canvas in the opposite direction
Another simple trick is rolling the canvas in the opposite direction.
If your canvas arrived rolled inward, gently roll it outward instead. This helps counteract the curve created during shipping.
After rolling it the opposite way, place the canvas on a flat surface for a few minutes to allow it to relax.
3. Use gentle heat on the back of the canvas
Heat can help remove wrinkles from canvas material.
Place the canvas face down on an ironing board or flat surface. Put a thin cloth or towel on top of the back of the canvas and gently iron it using low heat.
Never iron the painted front side of the canvas.
This method can quickly smooth out stubborn wrinkles.
4. Tape the canvas edges to your table
If you want to keep the canvas flat while painting, you can secure it to your workspace.
Use painter’s tape or masking tape along the edges of the canvas and attach it to the table surface. This helps keep the canvas stretched and stable while you work.
Many beginners find this method helpful during their first painting.
5. Mount the canvas on a board
Some painters prefer attaching the canvas to a rigid board before painting.
Using removable adhesive or clips, you can secure the canvas to a wooden board or foam board. This creates a flat painting surface and makes the project easier to handle.
6. Stretch the canvas onto a frame
Another option is stretching the canvas onto wooden stretcher bars before painting.
This technique is commonly used for gallery-style canvas artwork and keeps the canvas perfectly flat while you paint.
7. Prepare your canvas before starting
Flattening the canvas before painting can make the entire process more enjoyable.
A smooth canvas helps you see the numbers clearly and prevents paint from collecting in wrinkles or folds.
Once your canvas is prepared, you can begin painting comfortably.
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FAQ
Why is my paint by numbers canvas wrinkled?
Most canvases are rolled during shipping to prevent damage. This can cause temporary curling or small wrinkles when you first open the kit.
Should I flatten the canvas before painting?
Yes. Flattening the canvas helps create a smoother painting surface and improves the overall painting experience.
Can I iron a paint by numbers canvas?
Yes, but only on the back side of the canvas using low heat and a protective cloth.
How long does it take to flatten a canvas?
Using heavy books usually takes several hours, while ironing or reverse rolling can flatten a canvas more quickly.