How to Make a Quick & Easy Reverse Canvas

Have you ever tried a reverse canvas? This easy craft technique takes a cheap craft store canvas to a whole new level – and it’s a snap with Chalk Couture!

Craft store canvases have to be one of the best bangs for a buck in the whole store. I mean, you basically have infinite possibilities of gorgeous creations! But sometimes, you just want to up the “wow” factor – which is where this neat Reverse Canvas technique comes in!

Now the concept isn’t new – I’ve even had a few readers ask about how to do it before, so today I’m sharing my version of the easiest way to make a reverse canvas. You can totally make the entire thing from start to finish in about 10 minutes – which is basically instant craftification!

I know there are a few different methods on how to do this – but this is my go-to method because you can make this reverse canvas WITHOUT removing staples (which is almost always the hardest part.)

How to Make a Reverse Canvas

For this project, you’ll need:

Directions to make a reverse canvas:

1. Remove the canvas from the frame using a craft knife and cutting along the edge.
2. Use scissors to trim down the canvas to fit on the back of the wood frame.
3. Stain the wood frame by brushing on the water-based stain, then wiping off with a cloth. Let dry.
4. Create the print on the primed side of the canvas with Chalk Couture. Start by using the fuzzing cloth and put the transfer on then peel off to give it a light coat of fuzz before applying to the canvas.
5. Smooth out the transfer on the canvas, then with a squeegee, apply Storm Chalkology Paste to the small letters. Peel up just that section, then dry with a blow dryer for 20-30 seconds. Put the transfer back in place.
6. Finish up the print for your reverse canvas with the Couture Teal Chalkology Paste then peel off transfer.
7. Put a line of hot glue all around the edge of the canvas then place frame on top and press to hold glue in place.
8. Once glue is cooled, you’re ready to hang it up or give as a gift.

Want to see it in action? Watch my YouTube Video on How to Create a Reverse Canvas:

How to Hang a Reverse Canvas:

You have a few different options when it comes to hanging your reverse canvas. You can either use command picture hanging strips – or you could attach small picture hanging hooks to the back of the frame so you have a sturdier option. Just make sure to pre-drill your holes for any screws to make it a bit easier.

OH! And before I forget… the transfer I’m used for this project actually has TWO prints on it. To see how I used the second print, be sure to checkout my blog post on how to make a photo frame.