Canvas
Canvas is a heavy-duty plain-woven fabric measured in ounces and GSM, from 8 oz light canvas to 18 oz duck. Its strength, structure, and printability make it the commercial standard for bags, footwear, workwear, and outdoor gear.
Canvas is a densely woven, heavy-duty fabric traditionally made from hemp and now produced primarily from cotton or cotton-polyester blends. Commercially it is specified in both ounces per square yard (oz) and GSM (1 oz approximately 33.9 GSM). Its tight plain weave or duck weave delivers the structure, abrasion resistance, and flat printable surface that make canvas the default material for bags, footwear, and rugged workwear.
Available Weight Options
- 6 - 8 oz (200 - 270 GSM): Light canvas for shirts, chore jackets, and linings
- 10 oz (340 GSM): The standard for tote bags and casual sneakers
- 12 oz (400 GSM): Heavy totes, aprons, and workwear jackets
- 14 - 16 oz (475 - 540 GSM): Duck canvas for work pants, tool bags, and covers
- 18 oz+ (610+ GSM): Industrial tarps, tents, and maximum-duty gear
Popular Canvas Variants
- Cotton Duck Canvas: Tighter weave with superior durability and wind resistance
- Waxed Canvas: Paraffin-treated for water repellency and a rugged patina
- Dyed and Garment-Washed Canvas: Softened finishes for fashion applications
- Poly-Cotton Canvas (65/35): Reduced shrinkage and lower cost for bulk programs
- Laminated Canvas: Wipe-clean coating for bags and accessories
Key Features
- Outstanding tensile strength and tear resistance
- Excellent abrasion resistance for daily heavy use
- Holds structure and shape in finished products
- Water resistant when waxed, coated, or tightly woven
- Flat, stable surface that is ideal for printing
Commercial Applications
- Tote bags, backpacks, and promotional bags
- Sneakers, espadrilles, and casual footwear
- Workwear jackets, aprons, and utility wear
- Tents, awnings, covers, and outdoor equipment
Printing and Customization
Canvas is one of the best substrates for screen printing, delivering bold, durable graphics on totes and shoes. It also supports DTG printing, heat transfer, and dense embroidery, making it the top choice for branded merchandise programs.
Care Instructions
Machine wash cold and air dry for printed or natural canvas; spot clean waxed canvas only, as washing strips the wax coating. Expect up to 5% shrinkage in pure cotton canvas - specify pre-shrunk or poly-cotton canvas for size-critical production.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Canvas.