You can save money by printing a photo on canvas.
Many companies that provide photo enlargement and printing services also offer the option to enlarge a photo or digital image and print it on an artist's canvas. This can be hung as is or framed. However, this service can be expensive. You can make something similar yourself for a lot less money using simple home equipment and materials from a craft supply store.
Instructions
Print Your Own Canvas
1. Print your picture on special canvas made to be used in an inkjet printer. Make a test print first to be sure of the exact size before wasting a sheet of the canvas, which is more expensive than paper. Have a new ink cartridge on hand in case you run out of ink.
2. Stretch your canvas over the top of a framed blank canvas. This can be purchased at an art supply store. Fold the canvas over the frame, much the way you would fold "hospital corners" on a sheet when making a bed. Staple the canvas on the sides or back where it will be out of sight. Trim any extra canvas from the edges. Another option is to frame the canvas using a traditional frame.
3. Apply artist's varnish to cover and protect the artwork from dust and to keep the color from rubbing off. Test the varnish first on one corner of the picture to be sure it won't make the ink run.
Order a Printed Canvas and Frame It
4. Order a canvas from a service that prints on canvas and ships it in a roll, rather than stretched across a frame and nailed or stapled. This is a good option if you don't have a color printer, or if you want a print that is larger than your printer can create. To order, you will upload your photo and specify the size. Then you can enter payment and shipping information and place your order.
5. Make a frame out of wood by nailing four pieces of wood in a square or rectangle. Use wood that is between one-half and one inch thick. Measure your print to decide how long to make each piece.
6. Stretch the canvas over the frame and staple it, making "hospital corners" as you would when making a bed. Trim any extra canvas.
