Up to the beginning of the 20th century, many professional artists prepared their own canvases. As more and more amateurs took up the brush, the demand for canvases prepared by traditional methods grew. In 1906, in the middle of Belgium's Flax District and near the River Leie, Victor Claessens founded a company to produce artist-quality canvas, using and refining the tried-and-tested methods that had been passed down from generation to generation.

More than a century later, Claessens NV is still operating in its original location in Waregem, Belgium. Inspired by the proven techniques and methods of the great Flemish and Dutch Masters, Victor Claessens’ descendants have made a conscious choice to retain a small-scale approach to production and to honor the traditional methods for preparing artist’s canvas. Today much of the work is done by machine, but the core of the production process remains unchanged. Craftsmanship and attention to detail continue to be key elements.

Experts and internationally renowned artists alike appreciate the qualities of a Claessens canvas — an archival support of exceptional quality that enhances the creative process.

Painters work with a variety of paint types — each one requiring a specific canvas coating. Oil canvases are intended solely for oil paints. Universal canvases are suitable for oil paints and acrylic paints. Absorbent canvases are intended for tempera paints.