You can use several effective methods to remove wrinkles from a paint by number canvas before you start painting or after completing your Artwork if it gets creased. Here's how to do it:
1. **Ironing (For Unpainted Canvas)**
If your canvas hasn't been painted yet, ironing is a popular method:
1. **Set Your Iron**: Use a low to medium heat setting and ensure the steam option is turned off.
2. **Protect the Canvas**: Place a thin, protective cloth or parchment paper over the canvas to protect it from direct heat.
3. **Iron Gently**: Iron over the protective layer using gentle, circular movements. Avoid staying in one place for too long to prevent scorching.
2. **Spraying and Stretching (For Painted Canvas)**
For canvases that have already been painted:
1. **Spray Lightly**: Lightly mist the back of the canvas with water. Do not soak it; a light spray is sufficient.
2. **Stretch**: If it's loose canvas, gently stretch it back into shape and lay it flat to dry. You can use a clean, dry towel to absorb excess moisture.
3. **Frame or Mount**: Once dry, framing or mounting on stretcher bars can help keep the canvas taut and smooth.
3. **Using Heavy Books**
This method works for both painted and unpainted canvases:
1. **Lay It Flat**: Place the canvas face-down on a clean, flat surface.
2. **Cover with Paper**: If it's unpainted, you can skip this step. If painted, consider using parchment paper or a clean cloth to protect the Artwork.
3. **Place Heavy Books**: Distribute heavy books or other flat weights across the canvas.
4. **Wait**: Leave for 24-48 hours. The pressure helps flatten out wrinkles and creases.
4. **Cold Press (For Painted Canvas)**
If ironing isn't suitable:
1. **Use a Cold Iron**: An iron can sometimes be used without heat. Ensure it's cool to the touch, and use it to press down on the canvas (through a protective layer) to help flatten it.
5. **Humidity and Weight**
1. **Hang in the Bathroom**: The bathroom can introduce humidity without directly applying water. Hang the canvas in the bathroom while you take a warm shower.
2. **Flatten with Weights**: After the humidity has slightly loosened the fibers, lay it flat and place weights (books) on top until it dries.
### Precautions:
- **Avoid Direct Heat and Moisture**: If your canvas is already painted, avoid direct heat and too much moisture, which can damage the paint layers.
- **Test Iron's Heat**: If ironing, test on a small, inconspicuous area, if possible, to ensure the heat and steam settings do not damage the canvas or paint.
- **Protect Artwork**: Always use a protective layer when applying any pressure or heat to the canvas.
Removing wrinkles from your paint by number canvas carefully can ensure the canvas is ready for a smooth painting process or display, preserving your Artwork's integrity.