You want to start a new painting by numbers, but you don't know if you should frame it before painting?
This activity is a real hobby, but it is important to know if it is necessary to frame before starting.
But don't panic, we are passionate about this subject and know exactly how to help you.
Let's find out together now what the answer is to this important question.
Frame your painting before or after you paint it? The benefits of each solution
When you receive the paint kit, you need to determine the pros and cons of stretching the paint before you start painting. While it is ideal to frame the canvas before painting, it is perfectly acceptable to do so after the paint has completely dried.
The benefits of stretching the canvas before painting
The benefits of framing your paint by numbers before painting are as follows:
- After framing your canvas, you can put it on an easel and paint like a true artist. This will make it easier for you to paint your canvas vertically if you wish.
- You will have less surface to paint, because part of the canvas will not be visible since it will be on the side of the wooden frame.
- You will have the final dimensions of your masterpiece, so you can see where you will be able to hang it.
- You have less risk of damaging your work by maneuvering it after painting it.
The advantages of stretching the paint by numbers after painting it
The advantages of framing the canvas after painting it are as follows:
- You can paint your paint by numbers horizontally on a flat surface, such as a table or desk.
- You can choose a suitable frame for your masterpiece.
How to install your canvas on the frame
In this section, we will describe the steps necessary to frame your painting. Please note that this is a method for DIY frames. If you choose another type of framing, it will be easier for you.
- If you have decided to frame the canvas, start by laying the canvas (numbered side down) on a flat, clear surface.
- Assemble the wooden frame, making sure that it is the right way round.
- Place the wooden stretcher on top of the canvas, face down and properly centered.
- Make sure the sides of the canvas match the corners of the frame. Secure the canvas with a pin or two so that it will not move.
- Once you have positioned the frame correctly in relation to the canvas, place one of the longer sides of the canvas (and frame) facing you. Stretch the canvas as much as you can (but be sure to keep to the edges) and fold it over the frame.
- Once the canvas is folded evenly, use tacks to be sure of placement and staple the canvas when you are sure it is correct. At this point, we recommend that you staple only the center of the side for now, leaving the ends free.
- Move to the opposite side of the frame, and this time stretch the canvas as much as you can without distorting the print on the canvas. Fold it in the same way as the other side and reattach the middle of the canvas to the frame.
- Move to one of the smaller sides, stretch and fold using the same method. Fold the corners of the canvas to tuck one corner under the other, making sure to stretch evenly and staple the corners as well.
- Repeat for the other side and touch the front of the fabric to see if it is stretched properly.
- Add a few more tacks if necessary.
- Staple the canvas to make sure it is evenly stretched.
- Once the canvas is finally attached to the frame, trim off any excess canvas that may be unsightly.
- Congratulations! Your canvas is framed, no one will be able to tell the difference between a pre-stretched canvas and yours if you did it right.
Conclusion
As you can see, framing your paint by numbers before or after painting it is entirely up to you.
With all this information, you now know the advantages of each strategy.
That's why we advise you to try both methods to find out which one suits you best. It is important to note that our store offers you paintings by number already framed.
How about choosing your next paint by numbers kits by clicking on the image below.
