Caring for Your Waxed Canvas Gear

Waxed canvas endures because of its exceptional qualities. Its ruggedness, weather resistance, and ability to develop a beautiful patina over time have made it a timeless choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking gear that combines functionality with style.

 

Regular Maintenance:

• Avoid exposing your waxed canvas items to extreme heat. High temperatures can cause the wax to melt and lose its water-resistant properties. It's best to store waxed canvas items in a cool, dry place.
• Avoid exposing your waxed canvas items to strong chemicals. Harsh chemicals can damage the wax and cause discoloration. If you need to clean your waxed canvas item, start with warm water and a soft cloth and if that doesn’t work you can try using a mild soap. Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals. Do not machine wash or dry clean.
• Avoid over-stuffing your waxed canvas bags. Overstuffing can cause the seams to stretch and weaken, which can lead to tears and leaks. It's best to pack your items in a way that allows them to be easily accessed and doesn't put unnecessary stress on the seams.
• Avoid using heavy-duty cleaning tools. Abrasive tools like steel wool or stiff brushes can scratch the surface of the wax and cause discoloration. It's best to use a soft cloth or sponge to clean your waxed canvas items.
• Be mindful of the weather. Waxed canvas is water-resistant, not waterproof, so it's best to keep your items out of heavy rain or prolonged exposure to water.

 

 

Over time, the wax on your waxed canvas item may start to wear off. To restore its water repellency and durability properties, you can re-wax your items. You can purchase wax specifically designed for waxed canvas and follow the instructions on the product. We would recommend Martexin Original Wax. Use a small amount evenly and focus on high wear areas. Apply minimal heat like a blow dryer or a campfire

 

Repair and Restoration:

 Minor damages to your waxed canvas gear can be repaired to ensure its longevity. Patch small holes using matching waxed canvas fabric and a strong thread. Reinforce loose seams or areas of wear with additional stitching. Regularly inspect your gear for any signs of damage and address them promptly to prevent further deterioration.

We stand behind our gear 100% and are very proud of what we create in our shop in the Pacific Northwest.  We love being able to create gear with a vintage vibe and a modern twist. 

 

Sincerely

Heather, Todd, Linda and Amanda

 P.S. Here in our neck of the woods we have run into the problem of getting pine pitch on our waxed canvas gear.  We created a video on the different ways we tried to remove it

 

DISCLAIMER This guide is provided based on our experience.  We are not experts in waxed canvas care.  Anytime you treat your canvas with something besides water, it is a good idea to test a small corner just in case it doesn’t react how you want.