Jack RichesonÆs Medium-Duty Stretcher Bars are selected from the finest raw material, free from knots, and completely straight. They are designed so that the canvas is always a full 1/2"" from the stretcher bar to insure that there will be no ôghostö impressions on the canvas. The rounded back edge reduces surface friction and allows for a smoother, tighter draw of the fabric for a snug, more even painting surface. Each bar is finger spliced, making them stronger than natural wood.