Handmade canvas, as opposed to store-bought canvas, is a blank slate created from the ground up. Artists can stretch durable fabrics like linen or cotton over a self-made wooden frame. A more robust base can also be made from thicker fabrics such as buckram, which is commonly used for clothing backings. The final step is to apply a primer, which is a preparatory coat consisting of materials such as rabbit skin glue or gesso that ensures the paint adheres properly.

Artists can make canvases in specific sizes and thicknesses to suit their artistic vision. For large-scale applications, handmade canvas might be less expensive than pre-made choi