Come along and learn how to make your own canvases. During the workshop you will learn about the different types of stretcher bars, how to assemble and properly square the frames, and how to professionally stretch canvases onto stretcher bars. You will be able to take away with you a professionally made canvas and also be provided with all the relevant information and contacts to enable you to make your own canvases going forward.
Tea & Coffee will be provided, but if you feel like bringing along biscuits or cake…always welcome!
What to Expect
Expect ‘hands-on’ involvement with tuition for beginner’s level, and a no pressure atmosphere. You’ll learn the techniques and tips & tricks to make your own canvas frames. Making your own stretched canvases can be a very cost effective process enabling you to make a better profit from your artworks.
Experience Level:
Designed for beginners
Date:
Saturday, 12th Sept 2026
Time:
1:00pm to 5:00pm
Location:
Legion Hall, Coppice St, Shaftesbury, SP7 8PF
The Workshop’s Agenda
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An easy start into the workshop with a hot drink, meet and chat. Don’t forget the biscuits and cake!
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Gary will talk through the different types of canvases on the market and what to look for when ordering stretcher bars, canvas material and tools.
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How to measure for pre-painted canvases and also how to measure for pre-purchased frames. Gary will demonstrate how to assemble stretcher bars using the right tools and how to check squareness before fixing the canvas.
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Gary will demonstrate the professional way of fixing canvas to stretcher bars to ensure a strong fix, no sag and tight corner folds.
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Time for a drink and a chat with fellow attendees before making your first professionally assembled canvas!
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Time to get practical and start making your own stretched canvas. This is a no pressure workshop where you will have plenty of time to work at your own pace and ask lots of questions!
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Time again for a hot drink, chat and a recap of what you’ve learnt. We will be supplying you with contact details for all the suppliers of the materials and equipment you’ve used on the workshop. Plus you get to walk away with your own made stretched canvas, ready for your next masterpiece!
Directions to the venue
Use the postcode to get to Coppice Street. Half way along you will see a car park and the local hand car wash and Sports Bar. The Legion Hall car park is just past the front of the Sports Bar. There is room for 5-6 cars.
Legion Hall, Coppice Street, Shaftesbury. SP7 8PF