What's in a Canvas?

The type of canvas you choose can affect the amount of creasing that occurs. High-quality canvases made from natural woven fibers like cotton, linen, or velvet tend to be more crease-resistant due to their softness, flexibility, and give. These materials are less prone to bending or folding. On the other hand, polyester canvases are more rigid, which can cause them to fold or bend more easily, resulting in permanent creases. However, the primary cause of creasing isn’t the canvas itself, but rather the glue adhesion applied to it.

Adhesive Glue Layer

In diamond painting there are generally types of glue adhesive, poured glue and a double sided adhesive contact.

Poured glue is considered a superior method and is often considered the best option for diamond painting. The key benefits of poured glue are its strong adhesion and durability, which helps prevent wrinkles, creases, and air bubbles. It’s often preferred because it’s more flexible, making it less likely to crack or peel over time, and it responds better to changes in humidity or temperature. Because poured glue is applied directly to the canvas, it creates a smooth and consistent surface for the diamonds to adhere to, making for a more enjoyable and effective diamond painting experience.

Double-sided adhesive often causes more issues, like wrinkles, bubbles, and creases. The layers of adhesive and protective film can create air pockets and inconsistencies, leading to less precise placement of the diamonds. When rolling the canvas (especially when it's made from a rigid material like polyester), the adhesive can stretch or tear, leading to those annoying imperfections. This method tends to be less durable than poured glue, especially in humid conditions, which can cause the adhesive to lose its stickiness over time.

Tips and Tricks

Even with the best materials, creases can still occur, especially if your diamond painting isn’t stored properly during painting sessions. But don’t worry—there are a few tips and tricks that can help reduce or remove creases.

Ironing: The most common method for removing wrinkles is by using an iron, but be cautious as this can affect the canvas's glue. Never iron your canvas once you've added diamonds, as the heat can melt and damage the drills. To protect the glue, always place a towel between the canvas and the iron, and use low heat.
Reverse Rolling: Another effective technique is reverse rolling. Simply roll the canvas in the opposite direction a few times to help smooth out the creases.
Heavy Items: If you're looking for a simpler fix, try laying the canvas flat under some heavy objects, like books or even a mattress, for a while. This can help flatten out the creases.
Reapplying the Protective Layer: For polyester canvases, you can lift the protective layer and then reapply it. This can help reset the adhesive and allow the surface to smooth out, reducing larger creases. By lifting the layer, you're breaking the adhesive bond temporarily, allowing the creases to relax and flatten out.
Needle for Small Bubbles: For small bubbles in the adhesive layer, use a needle or sharp knife to puncture the bubble. This will release the trapped air, allowing the adhesive to stick down again.

With these methods, you should be able to minimize or fix creases and keep your diamond painting looking great!