If you're getting into painting or looking for a budget-friendly surface to practice on, you’ve likely seen something called a canvas panel. But what exactly is it? And why do many artists—especially beginners and students—prefer it over the traditional stretched canvas?
What Is a Canvas Panel?
A canvas panel is a flat piece of canvas that has been glued onto a stiff backing board, usually made of cardboard. It has the same canvas texture you're familiar with, but without the wooden frame found in stretched canvas.
This flat design makes canvas panels lightweight, portable, and easy to store—ideal for practice, classroom use, and quick studies.
Here are the top 3 reasons why canvas panels are often preferred:
1. Much More Affordable
Canvas panels are significantly cheaper to produce. Without stretcher bars and with fewer materials, they cost up to 70% less than stretched canvases of the same size.
That means you could buy 2 or 3 canvas panels for the price of one stretched canvas—making them ideal for beginners, schools, and anyone painting in bulk.
2. Flat and Space-Saving
Because canvas panels are completely flat, they’re easy to stack, store, and carry. They fit into drawers, tote bags, portfolios, and classroom shelves without taking up much space.
This makes them perfect for artists working in small studios, students commuting to classes, or anyone who values a clutter-free setup.
3. Designed for Practice
Canvas panels aren’t made for gallery display—they’re designed for learning, experimenting, and improving your skills.
You’ll often find them used in art schools, workshops, warm-up sessions, and by hobbyists trying out new techniques without the pressure of “ruining” an expensive surface.
Final Thoughts
If you’re starting your painting journey or just need a simple surface to try new ideas, a canvas panel is a smart choice.
It’s affordable, practical, and perfect for practice. So next time you’re shopping for a “painting sketchbook”—reach for a canvas panel.
