Custom Canvas Photo Art

Turn treasured photos into sentimental, handmade gifts for family and friends.

Canvas Photo of Corn in Bucket and Canvas Photo of Dog

Custom Canvas Photo Art

Turn treasured photos into ready-to-hang artwork by printing the images onto canvas photo paper then stretching the fabric over a wooden frame. Get step-by-step instructions.

By: Michele Beschen

Materials Needed:

  • digital photos
  • canvas photo printer paper
  • optional embellishments: gel mediums, rhinestones, paints or decorative threads
  • empty wooden frames
  • staple gun
  • sewing machine or needle and thread

Print Photo

Print photo onto canvas paper. Size photo so it fits on one sheet, which will cover a 5" x 7" frame, or use a photo program to expand image onto multiple sheets for a larger finished project.

Colorful Photography

Select and Print Photos

Print photo onto canvas paper. Size photo so it fits on one sheet, which will cover a 5" x 7" frame, or use a photo program to expand the image onto multiple sheets for a larger finished project.

Piece Images Together

If printed on multiple sheets, piece together for a tiled look and hand stitch or use sewing machine to connect. Be creative and make stitching part of the design with colored threads or zigzag pattern.

Stitch Larger Images Together

Sewing Canvas Photos Together

If a larger photo is printed on multiple sheets, piece them together for a tiled look and hand stitch or use a sewing machine to connect. Be creative and make stitching part of the design with colored threads or zigzag pattern.

Attach Photo

Wrap photo around wooden frame, stretch taut and staple fabric to back of frame. As you're stapling, alternate sides and continue to pull tight for a taut finished canvas.

Use Staple Gun to Attach Image

Attaching Canvas Art to Frames

Wrap photo around wooden frame, stretch taut and staple fabric to back of frame. As you're stapling, alternate sides and continue to pull tight for a taut finished canvas.

Embellish

Add a special touch by embellishing canvas with painted areas, clear gel mediums or 3-D objects, such as rhinestones, ribbon or found objects.

Add Clear Finishing Coat

Painting Canvas Art With Finishing Glaze

Add a special touch by embellishing canvas with painted areas, clear gel mediums or 3-D objects, such as rhinestones, ribbon or found objects.

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