I'm far from an expert on this subject, but I'll share some thoughts on each of your points. I have a 3880.
1. The only canvas I've used is Breathing Color Lyve, so I can't make a comparison as to sources of canvas. My first few attempts to print on canvas were frustrating - printer rejected the canvas (17x22), either because I had not cut the canvas precisely square or because the thickness and softness of the canvas prevented the printer's pickup mechanism from starting to feed. Once I taped a 1 inch strip of photo paper to the back of the canvas leaving 1/2 inch protruding beyond the leading edge of the canvas, the printer fed the canvas as expected. Still, it was essential that the leading edge of the photo paper be square to the edge of the canvas. Also, remember to add 1/2 inch to the length of your paper size in Photoshop. Epson will tell you that their canvas is stiffer and will feed better than BC.
2, I used Breathing Color's EasyWrappe Pro stretcher bars. Very easy, quick, and do a nice job. Cost is about $20 to frame an 12x18. Can't buy a traditional frame, matte, backing, and glazing for that price.
3. I've had no issues with color, but canvas will not capture everything that a high quality regular paper will, but they produce different finished products.
4. See #1. The feeding issue is the only problem I've encountered.
Hope this will be of help. Give it a try. I think you will like the result. I do.
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