Securing a canvas in a floating frame typically involves attaching the back of the canvas stretcher bars to the frame itself, creating the illusion that the artwork is "floating" within the frame without touching its edges.
Steps for Securing Your Canvas
Based on common practice and the provided reference, securing your canvas involves fixing it to the internal structure of the floating frame. The reference specifically mentions attaching the canvas into the stretcher bar.
Here's a general breakdown of the process:
- Position the Canvas: Carefully place your canvas art face up into the floating frame. Ensure it is centered within the frame's opening, maintaining an even gap (the "float") around all sides.
- Prepare for Attachment: Turn the frame and canvas over, exposing the back. The canvas stretcher bars should be visible within the frame's cavity.
- Secure the Stretcher Bars: The most common method is to use screws or special canvas offset clips. These fasteners go through the back of the floating frame and into the stretcher bar of the canvas.
- Screws: Pilot holes may be drilled first to prevent splitting the wood stretcher bar, then screws are driven through the frame and into the stretcher bar.
- Offset Clips: These small metal clips attach to the frame using a screw, and then another screw through the clip fastens it to the stretcher bar. They are designed to hold the canvas firmly in place.
- Repeat as Necessary: As indicated in the reference, "This can be repeated as necessary around the canvas." You will typically need to use multiple attachment points (screws or clips) spaced evenly around the canvas to ensure it is held securely and doesn't shift within the frame. Common placement points are near the corners and potentially in the middle of longer sides for larger canvases.
By attaching into the stretcher bar, you create a stable connection between the canvas and the frame, allowing the artwork to be displayed while preserving the distinctive floating effect.
