Here's a video that shows how I was taught to stretch canvas in art school: http://youtu.be/jSXyYJRRcd0 If you follow those directions it can help minimize uneven stretching of the fabric which would distort your pattern. You can make your canvas look more "professional" by making your design a bit larger than your frame so it wraps around the edges. Or, paint the edge black instead of leaving it white. Another tip... If you coat the fabric with an acrylic sealant (after it's on the frame), you can get a more painting-like finish that is easier to keep clean.