I figured out the folding marks & bubbles!

...or at least how to get rid of them, for me!

I know everyone has a different method and many just enjoy painting even with the folds, whatever is right for you.

But I wanted my canvas stretched tight, like we did in a watercolor class I took. Then a lightbulb moment, I would prep the folded canvas like I was doing a watercolor class!

I get the canvas wet (distilled water or filtered water), wipe off the excess and stretch and staple to a frame you make, a purchase frame or mounted canvases from the like of Michael's Crafts. When you get it damp, it stretches and also removes folds and creases.

Center and staple on or use sharp thumb tacks, let it dry for about 24 hours and it is stretched tight as a drum!

Maybe you remember he canvas I had posted here and started painting on but it still showed creases and wrinkles? I sprayed the clean water all over the back, then stretched it smooth and fastened it to a frame. It did not ruin what little paint I had on it.

You don't need an iron or steamer for this method. I am so happy about this method. Now I don't feel bad about buying a bunch of folded canvases during the sales.

Any questions? I'll try and help. And a thank you to Neil Kienitz for sharing his method years ago.