Self-adjusting stretcher systems

I want to inquire about conservators working experiences with a
self-adjusting stretcher-system called "Starofix" (developed in
1984).

This stretcher system consists of aluminium profiles in which a line
of little wood blocks sit. These blocks can move freely, like in a
curtain-rail-system.  The canvas is attached to these wood blocks in
a normal way (i.e. with nails/staples). It was suggested that,
because the blocks can move in this system, the tension should be
evenly distributed across the canvas, and when the tension is
increased, higher tension concentration and resulting deformations
in the corner areas should be avoided.

Inez van der Werf described this system in her article in KM 8,
1993, regarding new possibilities for traditional stretcher-systems.

Does anybody have practical experience with this system? Any
additional information would also be much appreciated.

Verena Muller
Stichting Kollektief Restauratie Atelier Amsterdam


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 17:52
                 Distributed: Sunday, February 1, 2004
                       Message Id: cdl-17-52-018
                                  ***