"Perspective unlocks innovation"

Sometimes, discovering and inventing requires looking at problems from a different angle; new perspectives can unlock innovative solutions.

Established 2013: Timeline of Our Journey

Art Canvas Factory

At ACF Canvas, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the world of artist canvases.

Our journey is a testament to our commitment to quality, environmental consciousness, and the artistic community.

  • Established 2013: Timeline of Our Journey

    Art Canvas Factory

    At ACF Canvas, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the world of artist canvases.

    Our journey is a testament to our commitment to quality, environmental consciousness, and the artistic community.

  • 2013: Beginnings

    Graham Sanderson, designer and entrepreneur, began manufacturing canvas frames for a canvas franchise, redesigning and upgrading the original frames regularly.

  • 2015: Challenges and Growth

    After burglaries led to focusing solely on canvas frames, Graham moved operations to a small factory, starting production with a dedicated team.

  • 2016: Mastering Canvas Stretching

    We perfected the art of stretching canvas, ensuring each piece met the highest standards of quality and durability.

  • 2016: Expansion

    Demand for frames grew, prompting a move to larger premises. We started training more staff.

  • 2017: Innovation

    Graham explored making artist canvases, receiving positive feedback from artists on the quality and versatility of the canvas.

  • 2018: Rapid Expansion

    We quickly outgrew our new small factory and had to relocate again to accommodate the growing demand for our high-quality artist canvas.

  • 2018: Market Entry

    Participation in HobbyX 2018 led to significant interest and a contract with Stretcher Frames, further solidifying ACF’s reputation for quality.

  • 2018: Bespoke Giants

    We started receiving requests for large pieces. Using his design knowledge, Graham inadvertently created the Box Board Canvas, meeting the demand for robust, large-scale canvases.

  • 2018: More Firsts

    Our Stretch Canvas with a 20mm depth was born, designed as a super canvas aimed directly at the budget market. One of our best sellers! This was version 1.

  • 2018: All Shapes

    With extensive CNC knowledge, Graham incorporated his expertise into creating beautiful yet strong shaped canvases.

  • 2018: The Year That Keeps Giving

    Our Box Board Frame, also known as the Panel Board, was developed. These items are extremely strong and sturdy.

  • 2018: Brainstorming

    Our 20mm Stretch Canvas expanded into our Colouring In Canvas, a huge hit with art teachers, as we can apply any design.

  • 2019: International Collaborations

    Engagements with international artists and companies, including the International Watercolor Festival, showcased the canvas’s versatility and quality.

  • 2019: IWS

    Our watercolor canvas journey began. Amit Kapoor used our canvas in a live demo, showcasing his amazing skills and praising our watercolor canvas.

  • 2020: Strategic Partnerships

    Discussions with Faber Castell SA and other industry leaders highlighted ACF’s potential for global reach. Despite the pandemic, online marketing kept the business afloat.

  • 2020: Pandemic Online Support

    Prior to the pandemic, Graham had been undertaking numerous online marketing courses. His belief in online sales and the amazing support from our customers kept ACF alive during lockdown.

  • 2021: New Dawn

    We started the process of developing our own canvas, manufactured in South Africa. Achieving this would ensure quality and progress.

  • 2021: Multi-Purpose Coating

    Along with world-renowned oil artist Joe Joubert, once our fabric was identified, we started searching for the perfect gesso.

  • 2021: Innovation Continues

    Graham took the circle canvas and designed a floating frame for the round canvas.

  • 2022: Bulk Pack Birth

    We took our 20mm Stretch Canvas and started offering it as a 10-pack for art teachers and schools. It quickly became our fastest mover.

  • 2022: Expansion Upgrade

    Once again, we outgrew our factory. We found a perfect 1000m² rural factory where we could further expand.

  • 2022: Innovation Continuum

    Our Outer Oak Floating Frame was officially launched, manufactured to perfectly coexist with our 40mm canvas range.

  • 2022: Gesso Progress

    Our coating for our oil canvas made great strides. Joe Joubert undertook rigorous testing of the coatings and canvas.

  • 2022: rPet

    Tests started on our own recycled canvas. We have been testing 40%, 60%, and 100% recycled variants. Amazing progress has been achieved so far!

  • 2023: Water Colour Canvas

    We have entered the final stages of developing our upgraded watercolor canvas. Our fourth attempt at perfecting the canvas is showing great results.

  • 2023: UK Launch

    ACF Canvasses UK was established, marking a new chapter in our international expansion.

  • ...

    Thank you for being part of this amazing story!

Want to collect in person?

  • Telephone: 07904563423

  • Showroom:

    Henfield

    West Sussex

    Bn5

  • Our hours of operation are Monday-Friday: 8 AM-7 PM Saturday-Sunday: 8 AM-4 PM

    Please book prior to collection.

  • Email: admin@acfcanvasses.com

  • Telephone: 07904563423

  • Showroom:

    Henfield

    West Sussex

    Bn5

  • Our hours of operation are Monday-Friday: 8 AM-7 PM Saturday-Sunday: 8 AM-4 PM

    Please book prior to collection.

  • Email: admin@acfcanvasses.com

Want to explore more?

Here are some more informative links

  • Brushes with Greatness

    Welcome to "Brushes with Greatness," where I humbly share some of my most memorable moments with the incredible artists I've had the pleasure of meeting over the past decade.

    From inspiring chats to unforgettable collaborations, these snapshots capture not just the fame, but the genuine camaraderie and creative sparks that flew.

    Join me in celebrating these amazing talents and the joy of connecting with fellow art enthusiasts.

    After all, every masterpiece starts with a great connection! ~ Graham

  • Yiull Damaso

  • Joe Joubert

  • Janet Van Wyk

  • Shiralee Siebert, Elsa Schultz & Joe Joubert

  • Karyn Wiggle, Ina Millman & Chrysoula Argyros

  • Jana Aspelling

  • Glen Josselsohn

  • Carien Forbes

  • John Adams

  • Ina Millman

  • Reggie The Nomad

  • Shani Zor Krebs & Ina Millman

  • Shirley Howells

  • Franci du Plessis

  • Ina Millman, Jessi & Mckenzi

  • Tere Lojero

  • Carmen Sarah

  • Chris The Valentine

  • Hercules Strydom

  • Byrone

  • Amit Kapoor

  • Joe Joubert & Else Schultz