When I run my program, sometimes it shows up and sometimes it just shows a blank frame. Is this because it's having trouble loading the canvas/buttons and all that stuff...aka do I need a loading screen and how do I do one in java?

maybe you are mixing AWT and Swing Components, all your components you have to starts with "J"

A "loading", AKA "splash" screen is always a good idea. Java 6 includes a feature to show one even while your program is loading, so the user sees something as soon as he starts the program. Strongly recommended.
http://java.sun.com/developer/technicalArticles/J2SE/Desktop/javase6/splashscreen/

On the other hand, if your program then goes wrong you should at least throw up a quick message box to tell the user.

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.