1-5/8″ Heavy-Duty Basic Stretcher Bars

Our Heavy Duty Basic profile bars are laminated which counteracts any tendency to warp, providing economical yet reliable and stable support for medium to large-sized canvases up to 84″ (~214cm). At 1-5/8″ thick, these fully keyable bars are also ideal for large Gallery Wrap canvases. Heavy duty 3/4” x 3” braces are used for bars longer than 36”.

WARNING: Some high-tension applications such as sizing of raw linen with RS glue require stronger stretchers to prevent twisting of the stretcher frame. If these are the materials you plan to use, please contact us for assistance. Otherwise, this guide can help determine the best profile and bracing for your needs.

2 ways to purchase our Heavy-Duty Basic Stretcher Bars:

If stretching a heavy material or sizing/priming linen, it is best to contact us before ordering larger sizes as contraction of the fabric may affect the structural integrity of the frame. You can also check this chart which provides helpful information on choosing the right stretcher bar for your needs or learn more about the features of our large, heavy-duty stretcher frames. To order frames larger than 84″, please fill out our quote form or phone us at 1-800-561-4944.

STRETCHER BAR MATERIAL: Kiln-dried, solid or finger-jointed clear white pine

STOCK BAR SIZES: Order stock-sized frames in six inch increments from 24″ to 72″ (24″, 30″, 36″, 42″, 48″, 54″, 60″, 66″, 72″).

CUSTOM SIZES: Order from our custom-sizes page for any size between 10″ and 84″ (~25cm-214cm) – accurate within 1/16” (1mm). For special orders outside of our stock or custom size range, please contact us or fill out our Quote Form.

BRACES: 3/4” x 3” clear white pine normally spaced at no greater than 30” centres starting at bar lengths of 36” to 40”. For frame sizes less than 40”, braces are often used to provide protection to the back of the canvas.

Each custom-made brace is designed with a 1/4”x 1/2” x 3” tenon on each end which fits into a matching mortise on the stretcher bar. The brace includes a very effective and attractive “hidden” slot design that holds the keys firmly in place.

In situations where braces must cross each other, a 3” wide, 1/4” deep dado joint is machined in each brace to provide a tight and flush nesting of the cross-braces. This joint is fastened together with a low profile screw inserted during final assembly.

Universal Braces also available for situations where you want to add a brace to an existing frame.

KEYS: 3″ long & 5/32″ thick; made of birch plywood or ash solid hardwood. Two keys provided per bar and brace.