Stretcher bars, commonly used for mounting and stretching canvas in art, have experienced numerous changes throughout history. One significant shift has been in the method of fastening the canvas. While the traditional approach involved nails, there was a gradual transition to staples. This article outlines this transition, focusing on when and why this change took place.
1. Historical Use of Nails in Stretcher Making
Traditionally, artists and craftsmen utilized nails to affix canvases onto wooden stretcher bars. These nails were typically hammered into the side of the canvas and stretcher, ensuring the canvas remained taut and secure.
2. Introduction of Staples
In the mid-20th century, advancements in manufacturing and tool development led to the introduction of staple guns. These tools allowed for a more efficient and rapid method of securing canvases compared to manually hammering in nails.
3. Advantages of Using Staples
The shift from nails to staples was not arbitrary; several benefits catalyzed this change:
- Efficiency: Staple guns increased the speed of canvas mounting, enabling artists and framers to stretch multiple canvases in the time it previously took to do one.
- Cleaner Edges: Staples could be placed on the back of the stretcher bars, giving paintings a cleaner edge when viewed from the side.
- Reduced Damage: The risk of accidentally tearing the canvas while hammering was significantly reduced.
4. Wider Adoption of Staples
By the 1970s and 1980s, the use of staples in stretcher making had become more widespread. Their ease of use and the growing availability of affordable staple guns made them the preferred choice for both professional artists and hobbyists.
5. Nails in Contemporary Stretcher Making
While staples are now predominantly used, nails have not been entirely phased out. Some traditionalists and purists still prefer the old method, valuing the craftsmanship and aesthetic of nail-stretched canvases.
Conclusion
The shift from nails to staples in stretcher making wasn’t just a random choice but a reflection of technological advancement and the pursuit of efficiency in art preparation. Recognizing this evolution offers insight into the interplay between art and technology, illustrating how even traditional crafts are not immune to modern innovations.