When I found waxed canvas backpacks, I knew there was no turning back. Finally, I had found a traditional, durable, classic, attractive, and long-lasting backpack style.
Waxed canvas is experiencing a well-deserved renaissance. Starting with an already durable fabric (canvas) and adding a water-resistant wax coating. Waxed canvas stays loyal to its historic roots while living up to modern-day expectations. It is an excellent, economical, and animal-friendly alternative to animal hides, often costing less than premium full-grain leather. Much like leather, the lasting durability of this cotton canvas makes it a viable option for your next venture.
Continue reading to learn more about waxed canvas backpacks, their benefits and uses, and where to get the best-waxed canvas backpacks.
Where did the term "Canvas" originate?
This fabric was not always made of cotton or linen-like it is now. Originally, the weavers of the time primarily used hemp to weave. It is the use of this material that gave canvas its name, "canvas" being a modified version of the Latin word "cannabis", which literally means "made of hemp".
It is predicted that the first use of cotton in the manufacturing process of canvas products dates back to around 1500 B.C., especially in the Indian plains. Later, thanks to trade, cotton cloth slowly made its way to Europe around the 8th century.
What is waxed canvas exactly?
Waxed canvas is a densely woven cotton fabric that has been treated with wax, giving it an extra layer of protection from the elements. This fabric has long been admired for its durability, natural water resistance, and rough appearance. The top wax layer is made of paraffin or beeswax and records folds and creases over time, giving it an antique patina. Waxed canvas quality and strength are determined by the wax, the thickness of the yarn, and weave density.
What is a Canvas Backpack?
A canvas backpack is a very highly regarded backpack that has a long lifespan. A canvas backpack comes in a variety of styles, allowing people to choose high-quality products that are fashionable and suitable for any occasion. Canvas backpacks are known for their durability and are composed of high-quality fabrics. Canvas backpacks come in a variety of styles and sizes, including ordinary, small, and extra-large.
Is waxed canvas good for backpacks?
When cared for properly, a waxed canvas backpack will last for generations and still look cool. You won't have to replace it every year.
There are several reasons why waxed canvas is superior to regular canvas.
- If we dive straight into it, waxed canvas is much more water resistant. This makes it ideal for use in inclement weather or outdoor activities such as hiking or camping.
- Furthermore, the wax coating protects the fabric from stains and makes cleaning much easier.
- And, if we're being honest: children, ketchup stains, make-up disasters, pen marks - We all need items that are easy to clean.
- The wax coating on the canvas actually prevents wear and tear, and the fabric itself is tougher and less inclined to tear. So, it is more durable than regular canvas.
- Aside from longevity and "cleanability", this sort of canvas has a unique rustic appearance that regular canvas cannot match. It's ideal for those who like a worn-in look or a vintage style.
Clearly, there is no doubt that waxed canvas is a good material for making backpacks. So, what are the benefits of waxed canvas backpacks?
Why you should consider a waxed canvas backpack?
If you are still on the fence about whether or not to buy waxed canvas backpacks, here are four main reasons why you should consider them.
Water Resistant
Waxed canvas bags are well-known and popular for their water resistance. The wax coating repels water, making this a useful material for making military rucksacks and backpacks, sails, tents, and outdoor gear.
Easy Care
Because of the wax covering, scuffs and scratches contribute to the character of waxed canvas bags rather than making them appear unclean. This means they don't need to be cleaned as often. However, the wax covering will erode over time, and you will need to re-wax the canvas (usually every 1-2 years, depending on the amount of use). This is a fairly simple method that involves only a bar or tin of canvas wax and a hair dryer to soften the wax when applying.
Durable & Ageless
Well, waxed canvas outclasses its fabric competitors in terms of long-term durability. The more you use it, the better it appears, much like genuine leather. With the right care, the same wear and tear that would wear out and tear up another fabric will instead give waxed canvas bags the character that makes them even more valuable and attractive over time.
Eco-friendly & Lightweight
Another benefit is that canvas bags are environmentally friendly and come in a variety of styles and designs, allowing you to choose one depending on the purpose and event. There are canvas laptop bags, duffel bags, travel backpacks, gym bags, and much more.
Can you wash it?
You don't need to wash a waxed canvas backpack unless it's necessary, as the wax protects it against dust and most stains.
Thankfully, it also repels dirt. Dust can’t penetrate the canvas. So cleaning it is usually as easy as letting it dry and knocking it off or rubbing it with a damp cloth. Oil stains are a different scenario. One method for removing oil stains is to apply corn starch to the stain and leave it to absorb the oil. Leave it on for two days, and then use a brush to remove it. If the stain remains, repeat the procedure.
DO NOT WASH IT DIRECTLY!
Wrapping up
People love waxed canvas because it is versatile, weather-resistant, and long-lasting. That means it’s the perfect fit for a diverse range of projects.
The usage and manufacturing of waxed canvas are deeply rooted in history, lending to its long-standing track record as a durable and perfect alternative to leather. We hope we have clarified and explained why waxed canvas backpacks are a smart option. Let’s summarize this: Waxed canvas backpack has a lower production effect on the environment, is durable, water-resistant, will last longer, has a long history, and, we can say — looks great and becomes more attractive with time.
Looking for a waxed canvas backpack?
Make sure to choose your new favorite canvas backpack to fit your needs. This kind of backpack may last a lifetime, therefore choosing the right one is important.
Luckily, waxed canvas is becoming more readily available! Here at PaCanva, we offer a wide range of highly regarded canvas backpacks, including waxed canvas backpacks, vintage canvas backpacks, canvas leather backpacks, and many more! Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for a 10% new customer discount!
