Waxed canvas is one of the oldest materials in the world, and it’s still popular today. Centuries ago, sailors noticed their sails caught better wind when wet, but wet sails are heavy sails. So, they figured out how to cure the fabric to let water bead up on the surface without soaking in.
Back then, sailors cured their sails by rubbing linseed oil onto the canvas. This water-repelling fabric soon became popular for making waterproof clothing for sailors too. Fast forward to today, and waxed canvas is used for bags, backpacks, tents, outdoor gear, and more.
Waxing canvas makes for a great DIY project, but professionally-made waxed canvas products offer high-quality formulations that boost the durability and timelessness of the fabric. Unlike the old days, modern manufacturers embed the wax or oil directly into the canvas fibers.
So, what is waxed canvas? It’s a durable, practical, and unique material that has stood the test of time.
