Here at La Movida Sewing & Design studios we have sewn with waxed canvas a lot, making things such as tote bags & jackets from it! Waxed canvas is a versatile and durable fabric that has been cherished for decades.

Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or new to sewing waxed canvas is lovely material that has so many uses. In this blog post, we talk about waxed canvas and provide you with valuable tips and tricks to make the most out of this material.

Understanding Waxed Canvas:

• Waxed canvas is a cotton fabric infused with a wax coating, typically made from beeswax or paraffin. This treatment gives the fabric water-resistant properties while maintaining its breathability. 

Choosing the Right Type:

• Waxed canvas comes in various weights and finishes. Consider the project you have in mind before selecting a particular type. Lighter weights are suitable for projects like bags and accessories, while heavier weights work well for outdoor gear and rugged apparel. There are also different amounts of wax applied to the fabric when you buy it! The more waxed the canvas is the stiffer it will be so this is something to consider before you buy. Here at the studio we mainly had double waxed canvas which is waxed on both sides and works great for bags and jackets alike.

Cutting Techniques:

• When cutting waxed canvas, use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter to ensure clean edges. Waxed canvas can be hard to pin through so be sure to use strong pins or opt to just weigh your fabric down. It is a fairly easy fabric to cut out because it is so stable. 

Sewing Tips:

Sewing with waxed canvas can be different from working with regular fabrics. Use a heavy-duty needle to penetrate the wax coating without causing damage to your sewing machine. If you are a more experienced sewer you can adjust your machine’s tension and stitch length to accommodate the thickness of the fabric. Make sure to have extra machine needles on hand if you plan on sewing through a lot of layers of waxed canvas because they may break more often!

Since sewing with waxed canvas can make it tricky to pin the fabric, it may be easier for you to use quilters clips to hold the fabric together when sewing. Just remember that you have to remove the quilters clips as you are sewing.

Edge Finishing:

The edges of waxed canvas can fray, so it’s essential to finish them properly. Options include anything from a simple zig zag stitch around the edge or if you have a serger you can serge! You can alsoput in  a lining in or creating a flat felled seam. 

Maintenance:

To keep your waxed canvas items in top condition, you may want to avoid machine washing. Instead, spot clean with a damp cloth. Over time, you may need to reapply wax to maintain water resistance and refresh the fabric’s appearance.

If you must wash your waxed canvas item, wash with warm water to ensure you completely wash off all your wax and then dry on low heat. Afterwards you will have to be ready to wax your canvas, we recommend a blow dryer and a bar of beeswax! Fjallraven has an excellent tutorial on how to do this! 

Conclusion:

Waxed canvas is a fantastic material that adds a touch of rugged elegance to your DIY projects. By understanding its unique characteristics and following these tips, you can confidently embark on creating stylish and durable items that stand the test of time. Whether you’re crafting bags, accessories, or outdoor gear, waxed canvas is sure to bring a timeless and authentic feel to your creations.

If you ever have questions about waxed canvas or any other fabrics feel free to reach out to us for help here at La Movida!