The cost to stretch and frame canvas typically runs from $100 to $700 for a finished piece, with large or custom-framed artwork costing more. Size, stretcher-bar depth, frame material, local labor rates, and whether the canvas is already painted are the main price drivers.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stretch canvas | $30 | $125 | $450 | Unframed canvas; size and tensioning affect labor |
| Frame stretched canvas | $50 | $200 | $900 | Basic ready-made to custom frame |
| Stretch and frame | $100 | $325 | $1,200+ | Typical combined service, before premium glazing |
What canvas stretching and framing usually cost
Stretching alone commonly costs $1.50-$5 per linear inch of canvas perimeter, or about $30-$150 for a 16-by-20-inch piece. Framing often adds $3-$15 per linear inch, depending on frame style and materials. A standard 24-by-36-inch canvas stretched and placed in a simple wood floater frame may total $250-$500.
For an average-sized canvas, budget roughly $125-$350 for stretching and a basic frame, or $350-$700 for custom materials and finish work. Prices assume a sound canvas, standard stretcher bars, ordinary access, and no conservation treatment; metropolitan framing shops may charge more than shops in smaller markets.
Assumptions: U.S. shop pricing, standard cotton or linen canvas, ordinary stretcher depth, no major canvas repair.
How stretcher bars, frame stock, and labor shape the quote
A shop quote may separate materials from labor, or bundle them into a finished-piece price. The ranges below are typical for a medium-size canvas and vary by region, wood grade, and design.
| Quote component | Low | Average | High | Typical basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stretcher bars | $15 | $40 | $100 | $0.50-$2 per linear inch |
| Stretching labor | $25 | $75 | $200 | $50-$100 per hour |
| Frame materials | $40 | $125 | $500 | $3-$15 per linear inch |
| Frame assembly and fitting | $25 | $75 | $200 | Cutting, joining, fitting |
| Delivery or disposal | $0 | $20 | $75 | Optional pickup or old-frame removal |
Frame material and finishing usually create the widest price gap. Pine and basic finished wood cost less than hardwood, metal, ornate profiles, or custom-painted frames.
Why canvas size, depth, and condition change the price
Size affects both the amount of frame stock and the time needed to tension the fabric. At 36 inches or wider on either side, a shop may recommend cross-bracing or heavier bars, adding about $20-$100. Deep bars measuring 1.5-2 inches often cost more than standard 0.75-inch bars and may require a deeper floater frame.
Condition can add more than a premium finish when the canvas is loose, warped, or damaged. Re-tensioning or minor corner adjustments may add $20-$75; patching tears, correcting severe slack, or handling brittle older paint can add $75-$300 or require a conservator. Linen canvas and oversized artwork also need careful handling and may carry a higher labor charge.
Three common canvas project quotes by size
A 16-by-20-inch canvas on standard bars with a simple black floater frame might cost $160-$280: roughly $45-$80 for stretching and $115-$200 for framing and fitting.
A 24-by-36-inch artwork with 1.5-inch bars and a midgrade wood floater frame may total $300-$550. A shop could spend 1-2 labor hours at $50-$100 per hour, with materials and frame stock accounting for much of the balance.
A 40-by-60-inch canvas with cross-braced bars and a custom hardwood frame may run $700-$1,400. Oversize handling, reinforced supports, and a custom finish push the estimate upward; confirm whether delivery is included.
Compare quotes using the same dimensions, bar depth, frame profile, and finish. A low total may exclude reinforcement, fitting, or pickup and therefore may not represent the same scope.
How much time stretching and frame fitting take
For a standard piece, stretching and fitting typically take 1-3 hours of hands-on shop labor, though the calendar turnaround can be several days to two weeks. A custom frame, large canvas, or busy-season backlog may extend turnaround to 2-4 weeks. Ask whether the quoted labor includes measuring, corner adjustment, hanging hardware, and final inspection.
Rush service can add about 15%-30% when a shop has to rearrange scheduled work. This charge is more likely for custom frames or artwork needed within a few days than for a basic ready-made frame.
Which framing extras add fees to a canvas order
Canvas normally does not need glass, but acrylic glazing may be requested for protection; expect roughly $50-$250 or more depending on size and grade. Hanging hardware can add $5-$30, while pickup, delivery, or removal of an old frame may add $20-$100. Repairs to the canvas or frame are separate from routine stretching.
Confirm whether the quote is for a floater frame or a standard frame. A floater leaves a visible gap around the canvas edge and often costs more than a basic profile; a standard frame may cover part of the edge and may not suit painted sides.
How U.S. location affects framing shop prices
Urban markets with higher rents and labor costs may price custom stretching and framing about 15%-35% above the national middle. Smaller towns can be 10%-20% lower, although limited frame-stock choices or the need to ship materials may erase the difference. Regional pricing is especially noticeable on custom hardwood profiles and large pieces requiring extra handling.
Local quotes are most useful when they itemize materials, labor, and delivery separately. Taxes may add roughly 0%-10% depending on state and local rules, and some shops tax labor or the complete order differently.
Ways to lower the bill without risking a loose canvas
Choose standard-depth bars and a simple frame profile when they suit the artwork, and avoid glazing unless the piece needs it. Provide accurate outside dimensions and ask whether the existing canvas can be re-stretched before paying for replacement bars. If the canvas is already stretched securely, frame-only service avoids duplicating labor.
Get two or three itemized estimates before approving custom work. Compare the same wood, finish, bar depth, and hardware, and ask about a ready-made frame or a frame-only alternative. Do not cut costs by accepting undersized bars or weak support on a large canvas; repair or re-stretching later can exceed the original savings.