A common question we get asked in the shop is whether stretcher bars are required to stitch or not. While they aren't required, some stitchers do prefer to use them, but it's all up to your personal preference! Read on below for more information on needlepoint stretcher bars, including what benefits they have and how to know what sizes to buy.
What are stretcher bars?
Stretcher bars are lightweight wooden frames that keep your canvas stretched and taut as you stitch.
What is the benefit to using them?
They help keep the canvas from warping as you stitch because they hold the canvas taut, meaning you (or your finisher) don't have to block your canvas to straighten it out when it comes time for finishing.
Why may I not want to use stretcher bars?
Some stitchers prefer to stitch in hand because it's easier for the canvas to travel with them, especially for extremely large projects like stockings, belts, or large pillows. It's also just a personal preference!
Do I have to stitch with stretcher bars?
A common misconception about stretcher bars is that they are required to stitch - they absolutely aren't! Stretcher bars are a personal preference for each stitcher. We recommend that beginners stitch without stretcher bars first. As you get more familiar with stitching, try them out and see if you like them before investing in many sets.
How do I know which sizes to buy for my canvas?
Stretcher bars are sold in packs of two, so you will need two sets of stretcher bars for each project (for a total of four bars). First, measure the length of your canvas, and round down to the nearest inch (for example, if your canvas measures 8.25" long, you will want one set of 8" stretcher bars). Then, measure the width of your canvas and round down to the nearest inch. Buy the two corresponding sizes.
How do I put together stretcher bars?
Take one bar for the length of your canvas, and one bar for the width of your canvas, and interlock them at a right angle. Repeat with the other two bars, then connect the two sets to make a rectangle that matches the shape of your canvas. You can lightly tap the bars with a mallet or hammer if you're having difficulty connecting them! New bars are usually tighter and can be more difficult to connect, and they get easier the more times you use them.
How do I attach my canvas to the stretcher bars?
You will also need to purchase brass tacks for attaching your canvas to the bars. Set your canvas on top of the stretcher bars, or set your bars on top of your canvas (another personal preference - try both ways and see which you like best!). Then, push a tack into each of the four corners of your canvas into the bar to secure the edges. Lightly pull the canvas as you go to ensure the canvas remains taut on the bars. Then, add more tacks until the canvas is at your desired tautness. You only need one tack for every 1-2 inches or so.
How do I remove my canvas from the stretcher bars?
Use the blue plastic tack remover that comes with your brass tacks to remove the tacks. Wiggle the tack remover underneath the tack and push up. You can also lightly tug the canvas to loosen the tack and pull it out with your fingers, just take care to not rip your canvas!
Can I re-use my stretcher bars?
Yes, absolutely! Since most stretcher bars do not come with the size printed on them, I like to write the size on each bar and rubber band corresponding sizes together, so I know exactly which bars to grab when I'm starting a new project.
What are the different types of stretcher bars?
Mini, regular, 3D printed, Edmunds, Colonial, Featherlight Frames - there are a lot of stretcher bars out there! Mini bars typically measure 0.5" wide and are the most standard type of bar you see. Regular bars are typically 0.75" wide so they are wider and thicker than mini bars. I recommend regular bars for larger projects for more stability.
Because in 2026 there has been a shortage of stretcher bars, you can now find different brands like 3D printed bars, Featherlight Frames, and more. Explore the different brands and materials to determine what works best for you!
