Waxed canvas bags are durable, water-resistant, and look great with a bit of wear. They also feel nice to the touch and develop a unique patina over time. They’re an excellent choice for outdoor adventures and everyday use.
However, they must be re-waxed periodically to keep their waterproof qualities. Fortunately, this is a simple process. All you need is a wax bar and a hairdryer.
Water-resistant
Unlike many synthetic bags that have become popular in recent years, Waxed canvas is durable and water-resistant. It was used to make tarpaulin and other outdoor gear long before the development of synthetic fabrics, and it is still a popular material for making backpacks. The wax coating makes it waterproof, and the fabric can be re-waxed to keep it looking new.
Using your fingers, work the wax into the bag’s fibers to make sure it penetrates and coats thoroughly. You can also use a hair drier to heat up the fabric and help it absorb more wax. When you are done, you should have a uniformly waxed pack with no holes or cracks in the fabric.
Re-wax your bag regularly, especially if you use it for wet or snowy conditions. This will keep it from getting stiff and sticky, which can happen over time. You should also re-wax the bag if it gets dirty, or if you notice any areas that aren’t coated well with wax.
Durable
Waxed canvas is a sturdy fabric that can hold up to lots of wear and tear. It is water-resistant and can withstand cold temperatures, so it won’t warp or melt. However, it is not indestructible, so you should keep it away from irons. Ironing a waxed canvas bag can cause it to burn and damage the fabric. In addition, you should store the bag away from extreme heat and cold to avoid fading.
Unlike full-grain leather, which can be expensive and fragile, waxed canvas is affordable and ages well. DSPTCH’s Bucktown backpack is made from 18oz filter twill waxed canvas and lined with 410-denier CORDURA packcloth. It features a large, structured design with 33 liters of storage space and YKK water-repellent VISLON zippers.
The Yorkshire Fox waxed canvas is sourced from Better Cotton Initiative cotton, which makes global cotton production healthier for farmers and the environment. It also uses beeswax, which is a more environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based products. In order to maintain the durability of your bag, you should re-wax it regularly.
Versatile
Waxed canvas is a natural, water-resistant fabric that can be made into bags and other products. It’s produced by saturating cotton or linen with a special wax mixture. This makes the fabric stronger and more durable. It’s also resistant to stains and dirt. It’s a popular material for backpacks, duffel bags, and other accessories.
Unlike most materials, it doesn’t need frequent cleaning. It’s easy to clean by hand and doesn’t require a washing machine. However, you should avoid using hot water because it can damage the fabric. Instead, use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process.
Waxed canvas is a sort of pleasurable torment; you fritter away hours simply gazing at it (and getting thwarted by covetous glances from onlookers). But this unique patina is worth it, and it charts a distinct road map of your travels, making your bag a one-of-a-kind companion. You can even re-wax it on occasion to keep it looking like new.
Easy to clean
Long before the development of synthetic waterproof fabrics, outdoor clothing and gear was treated with natural waxes that were very effective. The same technique is used on our waxed canvas products today. Spot cleaning with a wet cloth and regular re-waxing will keep your bag looking great. We recommend using a mixture of beeswax and neatsfoot oil.
When you first receive your bag, there is a chance that small areas of discoloration may form. This is normal and will go away with time. Just as you would with wrinkles in your clothes, lay it flat for a few hours or overnight and the discoloration should fade.
Before applying any wax, start by warming it up with your hands or a blow dryer so that it is pliable and easier to work with. Once the wax is warmed, apply it to your bag in a circular motion. Be sure to coat all sides and the seams of your bag.