How to Hang Unstretched Canvas (No Frame Needed): 6 Safe Methods + Pro Tips

Displaying unstretched canvas art can be challenging, but with the right techniques, you can showcase your rolled canvas beautifully without professional framing. Whether you've purchased an unframed canvas print online or have an original painting on loose canvas, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the best methods to hang unstretched canvas safely while preserving its quality and appearance.

What is "Unstretched Canvas"?

Unstretched canvas (left) vs. stretched canvas mounted on stretcher bars (right)

Unstretched vs. Rolled vs. Unframed: Quick Clarity

Unstretched canvas (also called "loose" or "rolled" canvas) refers to flexible canvas material that hasn't been mounted onto wooden stretcher bars. It typically arrives rolled in a tube for shipping or storage. Unlike stretched canvas that's ready to hang, unstretched canvas requires additional preparation before wall display.

Key differences to understand:

When NOT to Hang Canvas Unstretched

While there are several ways to hang unstretched canvas, certain situations call for professional stretching or framing:

For valuable pieces, consider what is a canvas painting worth professionally mounting to ensure proper preservation and display.

Before You Hang It: Flatten It Safely (5-30 Minutes Prep)

Properly flattening a rolled canvas before hanging prevents warping and ensures even display

Before attempting to hang your unstretched canvas, you'll need to flatten it properly. Skipping this crucial step can result in uneven hanging, continued curling, and potential damage to the artwork.

Reverse-Roll Technique

1. Carefully unroll your canvas on a clean, flat surface.
2. Gently roll it in the opposite direction (with the image facing outward) for just a few minutes.
3. Unroll again and lay flat with the painted side up.
4. Place clean paper or tissue between the canvas and any weights.

Weighting It Flat

For more stubborn curls, try the weighting method:

1. Find a clean, dust-free surface larger than your canvas.
2. Place acid-free tissue paper or clean white paper on the surface.
3. Unroll your canvas with the image side up.
4. Cover with another layer of protective paper.
5. Place even weights around the edges (clean books work well).
6. Leave weighted for several hours or overnight.

What to Avoid

6 Ways to Hang Unstretched Canvas (Step-by-Step)

Six different methods for displaying unstretched canvas art on walls

Method 1 — Poster Rails / Clamp Hangers

Tools Needed: Poster hanging rails (top and bottom), screwdriver, level, pencil

Steps:

1. Measure and mark where you want the top rail to be positioned.
2. Install the top rail according to package instructions.
3. Open the rail clamp and carefully insert the top edge of your canvas.
4. Close the clamp to secure the canvas.
5. For larger pieces, repeat with a bottom rail to prevent curling.

Best For: Medium to large prints, gallery-style presentation

Avoid If: Your canvas is extremely thick or heavy

Finish Tip: Use black rails on dark walls and silver/white rails on light walls for a seamless look.

Method 2 — Binder Clips + Hooks

Tools Needed: Binder clips (appropriate size for canvas weight), wall hooks or nails, level

Steps:

1. Attach binder clips evenly along the top edge of your canvas.
2. For small pieces (under 11×14"), use at least 3 clips.
3. For medium pieces, use 4-6 clips spaced evenly.
4. For large pieces, use a clip every 4-6 inches.
5. Install small hooks or nails where each clip will hang.
6. Hang the clips by their metal loops onto the hooks.

Best For: Temporary displays, lightweight canvas, rental properties

Avoid If: You have valuable artwork or need a permanent solution

Finish Tip: Use black clips that blend with the canvas edge or decorative clips as a design element.

Method 3 — Rod Pocket + Dowel

Tools Needed: Wooden dowel, needle and thread (or fabric tape), wall hooks, string/rope

Steps:

1. Create a "pocket" along the top edge of your canvas by folding over 1-2 inches of material.
2. Secure the fold with needle and thread using a simple running stitch (or fabric tape for a no-sew option).
3. Insert a wooden dowel through the pocket.
4. Attach string or rope to both ends of the dowel.
5. Hang the string on wall hooks.
6. For larger pieces, create a bottom pocket with a second dowel to add weight.

Best For: Textile-like canvas, bohemian style, fabric prints

Avoid If: Your canvas is painted to the edges or extremely valuable

Finish Tip: Use decorative rope or ribbon that complements your decor.

Method 4 — Mount to Foam Board/Backing

Tools Needed: Acid-free foam board, archival adhesive, brayer roller, hanging hardware

Steps:

1. Cut foam board to size (slightly smaller than your canvas).
2. Apply archival adhesive to the board according to product instructions.
3. Carefully position your flattened canvas on the board.
4. Use a brayer roller to remove air bubbles and ensure adhesion.
5. Place weights on top and allow to dry completely (24+ hours).
6. Attach hanging hardware to the back of the board.

Best For: Long-term display of prints, clean modern look

Avoid If: You have an original painting with texture or historical value

Finish Tip: For a gallery finish, consider a floating frame around the mounted canvas.

Method 5 — Magnetic Rails

Tools Needed: Magnetic hanging system, level

Steps:

1. Install the magnetic strip on your wall according to product instructions.
2. Attach the corresponding magnetic piece to the back of your canvas (top edge).
3. For heavier pieces, add magnetic strips to the bottom edge as well.
4. Carefully align and connect the canvas to the wall-mounted magnetic strip.

Best For: Rental properties, frequent rotation of artwork, thin canvas

Avoid If: Your canvas is very heavy or you're on a tight budget

Finish Tip: Choose magnetic systems designed specifically for artwork to ensure proper strength.

Method 6 — Stretch It on Bars (The "Real" Long-Term Solution)

Tools Needed: Wooden stretcher bars, canvas pliers, staple gun, staples, hammer

Steps:

1. Assemble your stretcher bars into a frame.
2. Position your canvas face-down with the frame centered on top.
3. Start in the middle of one side, pull the canvas over the edge, and secure with a staple.
4. Move to the opposite side, pull the canvas taut, and staple.
5. Repeat for the remaining two sides.
6. Continue working outward from the center of each side, alternating sides to maintain even tension.
7. Fold corners neatly and secure with staples.

Best For: Valuable artwork, permanent display, professional presentation

Avoid If: You lack the necessary tools or experience

Finish Tip: Leave extra canvas around the edges when ordering to allow for proper stretching.

For a more detailed guide on stretching canvas, check out our article on rolled vs stretched vs floater framed canvas.

Large Unstretched Canvas: How to Stop Sagging & Curling

Large unstretched canvases present unique challenges. Without proper support, they tend to sag, curl at the edges, and lose their flat appearance over time.

Add Bottom Weight (Dowel/Rail)

The most effective way to prevent sagging in large unstretched canvas is to add weight to the bottom edge:

• Attach a wooden dowel or poster rail to the bottom edge
• Ensure the weight is evenly distributed across the entire width
• For very large pieces, consider weights on the side edges as well

Use Two-Point Hanging and Wall Leveling

For canvases wider than 24 inches, always use multiple hanging points:

• Use at least two hooks or nails spaced evenly
• For very large pieces (48+ inches), use three or more points
• Always use a level to ensure perfectly horizontal alignment
• Consider D-rings with wire for the most secure hanging

Keep Away from Humidity and Direct Sun

Environmental factors significantly affect how unstretched canvas behaves over time:

• Avoid hanging in bathrooms, kitchens, or humid areas
• Keep away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and material degradation
• Maintain consistent room temperature and humidity when possible
• Consider UV-protective glass or acrylic if framing valuable pieces

For more tips on preserving your artwork, see our guide on how to clean canvas art.

Preservation & Handling Notes (Collector-Safe)

If you're working with valuable artwork or want to ensure long-term preservation, follow these museum-inspired guidelines:

• Handle with clean hands or cotton gloves to prevent oils and dirt transfer
• Always hold canvas by the edges, never touching the painted surface
• Store rolled canvas in acid-free tubes with the image facing outward
• Maintain stable temperature and humidity (65-75°F, 45-55% RH)
• Use only archival-quality materials for mounting or framing
• Document condition with photographs before and after hanging

For valuable original paintings, consider exploring our original paintings collection for examples of properly prepared artwork.

Should You Stretch It Instead? (Decision Guide)

While this guide provides multiple ways to hang unstretched canvas, sometimes professional stretching is the better option. Use this checklist to decide:

If you're looking for hassle-free options, explore our canvas print sets that come ready to hang.

Frequently Asked Questions

For more hanging solutions that don't damage walls, check out our guide on how to hang canvas without nails.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Display Style

Hanging unstretched canvas doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you choose a temporary solution like binder clips or invest in proper stretching, the right method depends on your specific needs, the value of your artwork, and your aesthetic preferences.

Remember that proper preparation—flattening the canvas and choosing the right hanging method—makes all the difference in how your art displays. For valuable pieces, consider professional mounting or stretching services to ensure optimal preservation and presentation.