Congratulations on unboxing your paint by numbers kit! Before you start painting, take a few minutes to stretch your canvas onto the DIY frame. It's easier than you think and gives you a smoother, more professional finish.
📦 What you need for your DIY frame
- Your canvas
- DIY wooden stretcher bars
- Thumb tacks (included)
- Flat surface to work on
- Optional: Hanging hooks
How to assemble your frame video:
Step 1: Assemble Your DIY Frame
1
Lay Out the Stretcher Bars
Unpack your DIY frame and lay out all four wooden stretcher bars on a flat surface. Identify the corners, each bar has a notched end that connects to another bar.
2
Connect the Corners
Gently push the notched ends together to form right angles. The frame should lay flat and form a perfect rectangle. Do not force the connections, they should slide together smoothly.
Step 2: Position Your Canvas
3
Place Canvas Face Down and Center the Frame
Lay your completed painting face-down on a clean, soft surface (like a towel). Position your assembled frame on top, making sure it is centered with equal margins on all sides.
Step 3: Stretch and Secure
4
Secure the First Long Side
Starting with one of the longer sides, fold the canvas edge over the frame. Pull it taut and secure with thumb tacks in the center first, then work outward adding tacks every 2-3 inches.
5
Secure All Sides
Flip and repeat on the opposite side, pulling taut to remove wrinkles. Then complete the two shorter sides, always starting from the center and working outward.
Step 4: Fold the Corners
6
Fold the Corners
Fold the canvas like wrapping a gift: pull one side tight, then fold the second flap over it to make a clean, flat corner. Secure the corner with 1 tack (or 2 for extra hold).
đź’ˇ Pro Tips for a Perfect Finish
- Stretch the canvas onto the frame before you start painting for the best tension
- Work on a soft surface (like a towel) to protect the canvas while stretching
- Do not over-stretce, the canvas should be taut, not warped
- For extra durability, use a staple gun instead of thumb tacks
- Add D-ring hangers (optional picture wire) for easy wall mounting
All Set! 🎉
Your canvas is now stretched and ready to paint. Once your masterpiece is finished and fully dry, hang it proudly in your home or gift it to someone special!