While it might seem simpler to buy a pre-stretched canvas, there are several compelling reasons to stretch your own:

Customization: You can choose the exact size, thickness, and type of canvas and stretcher bars to perfectly suit your needs.

 
Cost-effective: Stretching your own canvas can often be more economical than purchasing pre-stretched options, especially for larger sizes.  

Quality control: You have complete control over the kind of gesso or primer used on the surface of your canvas or linen.

Skill development: Stretching your own canvas is a valuable skill that can enhance your overall artistic practice. Get handy with canvas pliers, a staple gun and your primer of choice.

Gwartzman's professional stretched canvases are perfect for oils, acrylics, and all other artist techniques.

• Made with 7oz, 100% cotton canvas
• Double primed with acrylic gesso
• Expertly stretched and back stapled over a sturdy 3/4” depth, or deeper gallery 1.5" depth pine stretcher frame.
• Corners neatly folded and stapled down.
• Made in Canada.

Wood panels offer a unique and advantageous surface for painting. Here's why artists often choose them:

Durability: Wood panels are significantly more rigid than canvas, reducing the risk of warping or sagging over time.  

Longevity: Paintings on wood panels tend to last longer due to the stability of the support.

Texture: While you can choose smooth panels, many artists prefer the slight tooth of the wood, which can add depth and interest to the artwork.

Versatility: Wood panels can accommodate a variety of painting techniques, from impasto to glazing.

Professional Finish: Wood panels often give a more polished and finished look to a painting.

Mixed Media: They are excellent for mixed media works as they provide a sturdy base for various materials.

Buying canvas by the foot gives you the flexibility to choose the exact dimensions you need for your artwork.

Factors to Consider
Canvas Weight: This refers to the thickness of the canvas.
Heavier canvas is generally more durable.  

Canvas Width: Standard widths are 36", 48", and 60 inches. Gwartzman's is proud to offer widths up to 144".

Primed or Unprimed: Choose primed canvas if you want a ready-to-paint surface.  

Cotton or Linen: Cotton is more affordable, while linen is considered higher quality.

The primary difference between standard and gallery depth canvas lies in the thickness of the stretcher bars.

Standard Depth Canvas
Thickness: Typically around 0.75 inches.  
Appearance: Often requires framing to achieve a finished look.  
Best for: Smaller paintings or those intended to be framed.  

Gallery Depth Canvas
Thickness: Usually 1.5 inches or more.  
Appearance: Can be hung without a frame.  
Best for: Larger paintings, modern art, or creating a more dramatic effect.

Standard depth canvas is more traditional and often requires additional framing.  
Gallery depth canvas offers a contemporary look and can be displayed without a frame.  
The choice between the two depends on the desired aesthetic, size of the painting, and personal preference.

Both gesso and oil primer are used to prepare a surface for painting, but they have distinct properties and applications.

Gesso
Base: Acrylic  
Drying time: Fast
Adhesion: Good for both oil and acrylic paints
Texture: Can be smooth or textured depending on application.
Cost: Generally more affordable

Gesso is a versatile primer suitable for most painting surfaces. It creates a solid foundation for both oil and acrylic paints. It's quick-drying and easy to apply, making it a popular choice for beginners.  

Oil Primer
Base: Oil
Drying time: Slow
Adhesion: Excellent for oil paints
Texture: Typically smoother than gesso  
Cost: Generally more expensive

Oil primer is specifically designed for oil painting. It offers superior adhesion for oil paints and creates a smoother surface. However, it takes longer to dry and is generally more expensive than gesso.  

Let's explore some of the most common art mediums:

Drawing and Painting Mediums

Watercolour: Transparent paints that blend easily for soft washes.

Acrylic: Versatile paints that dry quickly and can be used on various surfaces.

Oil: Slow-drying paints known for their rich colors and depth.

Gouache Opaque watercolors that offer vibrant colors and coverage.

Encaustic: Pigments mixed with hot wax for a unique textured look.

Graphite Pencil: Versatile and widely used for sketching and detailed work.

Relief Printing: Creating raised images on a surface and inking them.

Screen Printing: Pushing ink through a stencil onto paper.

Graphite Pencil: Versatile and widely used for sketching and detailed work.

Charcoal: Creates soft, expressive lines and values.

Ink: Offers precise lines and washes, often used in pen and ink drawings.

Pastel: Creates soft, chalky effects with a wide range of colors.

Gwartzman's has earned its reputation as a top art supply shop in Toronto for several compelling reasons:

Extensive Selection: They boast a wide range of art supplies, catering to artists of all levels and disciplines. From beginner essentials to professional-grade materials, Gwartzman's has it all.

Competitive Pricing: Known for its budget-friendly options, Gwartzman's offers quality art supplies without breaking the bank.

Expert Knowledge: The staff at Gwartzman's is often composed of artists themselves, providing invaluable advice and guidance to customers.

Community Focus: Gwartzman's has been a part of the Toronto art community for decades, fostering a strong connection with local artists.

Convenient Location: Situated in the heart of Toronto, Gwartzman's is easily accessible for artists and students alike.