Canvas Prints FAQ

3 MIN READ
Level: basic
Canvas art with words and designs in dark blue, pink, orange and white.

Have questions about canvas prints? These canvas prints FAQ covers everything from canvas material and recommended image resolution to available sizes, edge styles, frame depths and installation options.

What sizes are available?

Custom canvas prints are available in our predetermined sizes or can be ordered using custom dimensions. Enter your desired finished dimensions in the Finished Size fields on the product page. If your dimensions fall outside our available parameters, you’ll receive a notification and can request a Custom Quote.

What type of canvas is available?

Canvas printing is available on recycled satin canvas with the following features:

  • Base fabric is made from 100% polyester resin derived from discarded plastic bottles. The coating is not made with recycled materials.
  • Slightly textured surface with a sophisticated satin finish
  • Specialized coating for vibrant prints
  • Strong yet flexible construction
  • Resistant to edge-cracking when stretched
  • Waterproof
  • 11 oz. thickness
  • For indoor use only

What type of wood is used for the frame?

Canvas print frames are made from premium kiln-dried poplar wood. The wood has few knots and is dried to a moisture content below 5%, which helps the frames resist bowing and warping.

A canvas print frame with a hanging wire attached to the back.

What image file size do you recommend?

For canvas prints, we recommend setting your photos to 150 DPI. (Hint: A 12″ x 12″ print size works well for Instagram photos!) Learn more: PPI, DPI & Image Resolution

What does edge style mean?

Edge style determines how your artwork appears along the edges of a canvas print wrap. We offer several options:

  • Wrap Image – Also known as a gallery wrap. Image extends around the sides of the frame. Be sure to account for the additional length and width when preparing your artwork.
  • Natural (White) – Image is sized to fit the face of the frame. Sides are covered with the natural canvas material in white.
  • Black – Image is sized to fit the face of the frame. We create a black fill border, making the sides of your finished print black.
  • Mirror – Image is sized to fit the face of the frame. We mirror the outer two inches of the photo to cover the sides of the frame. This creates an appearance similar to a traditional wrap image.
Four custom canvas prints with bright imagery in red, blue, yellow and green.
Mirror Edge Style

What does stretch frame depth mean?

Stretch frame depth refers to how far the frame extends from the wall. It also determines the required image size because your artwork needs to cover both the finished dimensions and the sides of the frame. Canvas prints are available with these stretch frame depth options:

  • 0.75″ (low profile) – Approximately 3/4″ thick. Choose this option if you plan to put the print into a frame. This option is not recommended for unframed prints larger than 36″ x 36″.
  • 1.5″ – Approximately 1.5″ thick. Standard frame thickness for gallery wrapped canvases.
  • Rolled (no frame) – Choose this option to receive your canvas print unmounted. Unmounted canvas prints are shipped rolled in a tube.
Four canvas prints with wooden frames and the prints wrapped around the edges.
Low profile stretch frame depth

Can I create canvas prints with multiple designs in the same order?

Yes. Smartpress’ Versions feature lets you print multiple canvas designs in a single order. Your canvases must have the same size and finish, but you can change the design and content for each canvas as much as you like.

We also offer split canvas options, including diptych, triptych and quadtych canvas prints. Learn more: Versions

Two canvas prints with custom art of the Queens and Brooklyn boroughs in pink, orange, white and blue.

What installation options are available?

Canvas prints come with a wire attached to the back inside the frame, making them easy to hang.

If you have questions about any of these canvas prints FAQ or other printing services, please contact customer service.