Why Our 20″ × 16″ Canvases Are Designed to Be Framed or Mounted
At Mitten Masterpiece, every decision we make—from our Michigan-inspired artwork to the canvas it’s printed on—is intentional. One of the most common questions we receive is why our premium paint-by-number canvases arrive rolled and unstretched, and how they’re meant to be finished once the painting is complete.
Our canvases are thoughtfully designed to be framed or mounted, creating a refined, gallery-worthy final result. This approach allows us to maintain exceptional quality, protect the artwork in transit, and give our customers flexibility in how their finished piece is displayed.
A Thoughtful Approach to Stretched Canvases
We’re often asked whether Mitten Masterpiece offers stretched canvases, and it’s a question we genuinely appreciate. Stretched canvases are something we’re actively considering for the future, and as our studio continues to grow, expanding our finishing options is very much part of the long-term vision.
At this time, however, our production process is intentionally centered around rolled, unstretched canvases. Offering stretched canvases at the level of craftsmanship we expect requires specialized equipment, space, and handling processes that we’re not quite ready to introduce yet. Rather than offering a solution that doesn’t meet our standards, we’ve chosen to focus on what we can do exceptionally well today.
Framing or mounting allows each finished painting to be presented beautifully, with clean edges, a flat surface, and a polished look that elevates paint-by-number into true wall art.
Why We Ship Our Canvases Rolled
Shipping our canvases rolled helps preserve the surface quality and ensures your artwork arrives safely. It also gives you more flexibility at the final stage—whether you prefer a classic frame, a modern mount, or a custom display option that fits your home.
This approach offers several advantages:
Reduced risk of warping or damage during shipping
More frame and display style options
A clean, professional finish once completed
The Best Ways to Finish Your Mitten Masterpiece
Once your painting is complete and fully dry, there are two recommended ways to finish and display it beautifully: framing or mounting.
Option 1: Framing Your Finished Painting
Framing is the most popular choice among Mitten Masterpiece customers. A well-chosen frame instantly transforms your finished canvas into a statement piece.
Many customers gravitate toward:
Natural wood frames for a warm, Michigan-inspired feel
Matte black or white frames for a clean, gallery-style look
Neutral tones that complement lakes, lighthouses, and Northern landscapes
On the left: Dockside Bookstore Afternoon framed and matted, sent to our retail partner for display with our kits; on the right: a custom paint-by-number kit framed.
Framing also allows you to change the look over time without altering the artwork itself—perfect for seasonal décor or evolving interiors.
Option 2: Mounting Your Canvas to Foam Board
For a sleek, lightweight alternative, mounting your canvas to foam board creates a perfectly flat surface that’s ready for framing or display. Michael’s craft stores do offer this service at a very reasonable fee if you’d prefer to not do it on your own.
Above: John William Waterhouse’s The Easy Chair (1916) mounted on foam board.
What you’ll need:
Acid-free foam board (cut slightly smaller than the canvas)
Archival spray adhesive or acid-free gel adhesive
A clean, flat workspace
A soft brayer, rolling pin, or clean cloth
How to mount your canvas:
Place your finished painting face down on a clean surface once fully dry.
Apply an even layer of adhesive to the foam board, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Carefully align the foam board with the back of the canvas and press gently into place.
Smooth from the center outward to remove air bubbles and ensure full contact.
Cover with clean paper and apply even weight while the adhesive cures.
Once mounted, your canvas is ready to be framed or displayed using hardware designed for foam board.
Designed to Be Frame-Worthy from the Start
Mitten Masterpiece paint-by-number kits are created with the end result in mind. These aren’t temporary projects—they’re designed to become lasting pieces of art that celebrate Michigan’s landscapes, towns, and stories.
Whether you choose to frame your finished painting or mount it for a modern presentation, your Mitten Masterpiece is meant to feel intentional, elevated, and personal.
As always, if you have questions about finishing, framing, or display options, we’re happy to help. The final step should feel just as rewarding as the first brushstroke—and the finished piece should be something you’re proud to hang on your wall.
❤️ With Love from Michigan,
Bobbie