News - What is Waxed Canvas?

Loved by fashion labels as well as those brands with more utilitarian roots, waxed canvas is experiencing a much-deserved renaissance. Waxed canvas is prized because of its water repellent qualities and durability. The natural patina and crinkling created with use, is particularly attractive and mimics the aging of fine leather.

Waxed canvas is a densely woven cotton fabric that has been coated using a paraffin-based wax thus giving it an extra layer of protection against the elements. Did you know waxed canvas is vegan? It is more environmentally friendly than many other vegan leather substitutes which use products derived from petroleum whereas the production of paraffin wax generates very low level chemical toxins.

Waxed canvas has its roots in mid-sixteenth century British sailing. Sailors observed that wet canvas sails caught the wind more effectively when soaked in linseed oil. This strengthened the sails, keeping them lighter and more waterproof in heavy storms. Over time, this trend of applying linseed oil as a weather proofing agent rapidly spread to protective clothing worn by fishermen and sailors then transitioned from sailing to military uniforms. Eventually the use of waxed canvas spread to other industries.

In recent decades this environmentally friendly fabric has seen a resurgence in popularity and has resulted in an increasing use in fashion accessories. At Sarah B. we love it because of the attractive way in which it ages - like a full grain leather its appearance improves with age. Scuffs marks and creases create a rich patina which continue to develop with age and make each bag truly unique.