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Hi Sandy,
I usually stretch all my canvases. I use Belgium linen, cotton is too soft, I think.
Make sure the stretchers are at right angles. Cut the linen about 2" too big on all sides. Staple on the first side (not the back) with 3-4 staples(1 staple per 1") making sure that you follow the trend.
Then you fix the opposite side the same way while you hold it tight, not so much as a drumskin, but some. Next you fix the 2 other sides tightening such as the middle of the linen become stretched and flat. Make sure the corners stay at a right angle.
Proceed with 2-3 staples towards the corners, shifting sides all the time until you reach the corner. Cut the superfluous linen or fix it on the back as you please.
Linen must be glued with animal glue to prevent the oil paint from filling the fibres. Then you can paint with what ever you wish. Gesso, acrylic or anything homecooked.
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