Abstract: Sturdy metal strainer frames for mounting art canvas are assembled in any required size in an easy and cost-effective fabrication approach. Frame members fabricated as aluminum extrusions are joined at mitred corners to form a rectangular strainer frame. The frame extrusion pattern provides a smooth rounded perimeter edge for improved canvas mounting, a rear channel for anchoring the canvas around the edges and a larger channel around the inside of the frame for accepting brace members as required and holding them accurately aligned, typically at two foot intervals for larger frame sizes. The brace members, provided in two types of extrusion pattern, are cut to length and attached together at junctions as required and to the frame at overlapping flanges, preferably by a proprietary TOX (R) joining system utilizing an upsetting-pressing technique that eliminates all separate fastening hardware items such as clips, nuts, bolts, screws and rivets and requires no drilling, welding, or adhesives.

Abstract: For gripping and stretching fabric such as art canvas, a system of specially-shaped gripping members are attached to the material in line along each edge in a manner that in co-operative engagement with the frame via special frame channels, facilitates two-dimensional stretching and mounting as well as subsequent dismounting of the material from the frame, rolling up for shipping or storage, and reassembly and re-mounting onto the frame. The gripping members slide into the frame channels which then engage a fixed or adjustable frame; optionally the fabric may be stretched around the frame perimeter. The gripping members are attached in pairs: one on each sides of the fabric, arranged in line near the edge of the fabric and are made to slide freely in the frame channels to enable two-dimensional stretching of the fabric. The members of each pair are permanently attached together by wire staples or thread, gripping the fabric between interfacing surfaces which may be shaped to enhance gripping.

Abstract: For gripping and stretching fabric such as art canvas, a system of specially-shaped gripping members are attached to the material in line along each edge in a manner that in co-operative engagement with the frame via special frame channels, facilitates two-dimensional stretching and mounting as well as subsequent dismounting of the material from the frame, rolling up for shipping or storage, and reassembly and re-mounting onto the frame. The gripping members slide into the frame channels which then engage a fixed or adjustable frame; optionally the fabric may be stretched around the frame perimeter. The gripping members are attached in pairs: one on each sides of the fabric, arranged in line near the edge of the fabric and are made to slide freely in the frame channels to enable two-dimensional stretching of the fabric. The members of each pair are permanently attached together by wire staples or thread, gripping the fabric between interfacing surfaces which may be shaped to enhance gripping.