What is a Rolled Canvas Print? A Quick Guide for First-Time Buyers

Canvas prints are one of the most popular ways to display favorite photos or artwork. But if you’ve ever browsed online for a canvas print, you’ve likely come across an option called a rolled canvas. Unlike the ready-to-hang versions, these arrive as just the printed canvas material, rolled carefully into a tube. For many, it’s a smart choice that offers more flexibility and creative control.

In this guide, we’ll break down what a rolled canvas print is, who it’s for, and how it can fit into your décor plans or gifting ideas.

Understanding the Rolled Canvas Print

A rolled canvas print is the printed version of your photo or artwork on high-quality canvas fabric. Instead of being mounted or stretched over a wooden frame, the canvas is rolled up and packaged for easy shipping. The texture, ink quality, and material are exactly what you’d expect from any premium canvas print—the difference lies in the presentation.

This format is ideal for customers who want to decide how and when to frame or stretch their print. Since it arrives unmounted, the canvas remains flat, flexible, and easy to store until you're ready to display it.

If you're curious about where to begin or want to order one, explore our rolled canvas prints for more details and customization options.

Why Choose a Rolled Canvas?

There are a few key reasons why people go for rolled canvas prints:

1. Easier on the budget

Without the stretcher frame, these prints cost less to produce and ship. It’s a great way to get premium-quality wall art while saving a few bucks.

2. Convenient for shipping and travel

Moving to a new home? Sending a gift across the country? Rolled canvas is lightweight and fits into small packages, making delivery simpler and more secure.

3. Total freedom to frame it your way

Some people prefer choosing a custom frame that matches their interior. A rolled canvas gives you the option to take it to a local framer or stretch it at home whenever you're ready.

4. A favorite among artists and DIY fans

Artists love rolled canvas because it allows them to sell prints and let buyers frame them according to personal style. For DIY enthusiasts, it's a hands-on way to complete the artwork from print to wall.

When is Rolled Canvas the Right Choice?

You’re planning to gift a memory but want the recipient to pick how they hang it. You want to save on shipping without compromising quality. Maybe you're storing art to hang in your future home. In all these scenarios, rolled canvas makes perfect sense.

It’s also a solid pick for creative projects like gallery walls, exhibitions, or even pop-up events. Some customers order several rolled prints at once to stretch and hang as a full wall series later.

Can You Stretch a Rolled Canvas at Home?

Yes, and many people do. If you're handy with simple tools, you can stretch your rolled canvas onto a wooden frame yourself. This approach can be fun and rewarding, especially if you like putting personal touches on your décor.

You’ll need a few things like stretcher bars, canvas pliers, and a staple gun. But before you dive in, it’s helpful to follow a guide. We’ve broken down the steps in our dedicated blog on how to stretch your own canvas so you can do it confidently.

If DIY isn’t your thing, you can always take the print to a local framing shop for professional stretching.

Poster or Canvas? A Quick Clarification

Rolled canvas prints are sometimes confused with posters, especially when both are delivered in tubes. But there’s a clear difference in material and quality. Posters are usually printed on thin paper. Canvas prints use textured fabric designed for high-resolution, durable image reproduction.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

When ordering a rolled canvas, it’s important to choose a high-resolution image—ideally 150 DPI or higher. This ensures the final print looks crisp and detailed. Also, check the border settings. If you’re planning to stretch the canvas later, ask for mirrored or colored borders to maintain the full image area on the front.

When your canvas arrives, handle it with care. Unroll it slowly on a clean, dry surface to avoid smudges or creases.

Some General Queries for Rolled Canvas, Answered

Can I hang a rolled canvas without a frame?

A rolled canvas needs to be stretched or mounted before you can hang it. It doesn’t come with a frame or backing, so hanging it straight from the roll isn’t recommended. However, once stretched or framed, it’s ready for display just like any other canvas print.

How do I unroll a rolled canvas without damaging it?

Unroll the canvas slowly on a clean, flat surface. Avoid sharp objects or dusty areas. Let it rest flat for a few hours to help reduce any curling. If needed, you can place a light, flat weight (like a book) on the corners to help it flatten.

Is it easy to stretch a rolled canvas at home?

It’s manageable if you’re comfortable with DIY tools. You’ll need stretcher bars, pliers, a staple gun, and some patience. If you’re new to it, check out our how-to guide on stretching canvas for step-by-step help.

Does the print quality differ between rolled and stretched canvas?

No, the print quality is the same. Both use the same ink and canvas material. Rolled canvas and stretched canvas difference lies in the presentation and how it's prepared for display. 

What border options are best for rolled canvas?

If you plan to stretch it later, choose mirrored or colored borders. This allows the full image to remain on the front of the canvas after stretching, with the mirrored edges wrapping around the frame sides.

Final Thoughts

Rolled canvas prints give you more than just a beautiful image—they offer flexibility, affordability, and a bit of creative freedom. Perfect for gifting, DIY projects, or future decorating plans, these prints let you take control of how your favorite moments are displayed.

Looking for home design inspiration? You might also enjoy this creative take on how to make your home look expensive with cheap canvas prints.