Oil Paintings on canvas

[KCP]

I have been given two oil paintings on canvas to frame that were bought abroad, Im not sure how much the canvas has been stretched etc, they have both been rolled up and one will now not lay flat and is quite wavey (from being rolled). Im really not sure where to start as Im worried if stretched the paint may crack.

Any help or suggestions would be gratefully received!

[prospero]

Hi and Welcome KCP.

You are right to be cautious. Some canvases that people bring back from their travels are done with very inferior materials. Some of the 'canvas' appears to be second-hand bed-sheets.
The only way is to go gently. The term 'stretching' is somewhat misleading. The idea is to get the canvas flat so it does not flap about. If you start in the centres of each edge and work toward the corners in sequence you should be able to get the thing flat without applying excessive tension. Use fingers only. You should not need canvas pliers. Only bang the wedges in if there is a slight wave anywhere and even then do it gingerly. A little tap - leave awhile to relax - give it another....