The BALENCIAGA brand has recently released another series of ladies' bags. The model is made of an unusual material - canvas. Canvas material, what is it, if such a famous brand uses it in its collection?
History of canvas creation
Canvas has a long history, which will help you understand that over the centuries it has changed frequently both in composition and in purpose. At first, canvas was used by Mediterranean sailors to make sails. To do this, they collected and beat the stems of hemp. From the resulting fibers, after being treated with wax, they wove canvas. It turned out to be unusually strong and waterproof, which is why it became very popular.
Please note. The name of the material originally came from the word "hemp" and in Latin sounded like "canuabis". In the 13th century, the French name "canevas" took root, under which the fabric spread throughout Europe. In Russian, the fabric was called parucina.
Production and composition of canvas
The method of making canvas from hemp survived until the 18th century, after which they began to use cotton in the composition and a little later flax. So canvas fabric became even stronger and more accessible, and the purpose of the material also included work clothes, hats, bags and other fabric products.
The technology of fabric production has undergone some improvements, but the structure has remained the same. Today, canvas material is a two-layer fabric. The composition of the fabric is as follows: the outer layer is polyester (85%) and nylon (15%), the lower layer is polyester (65%) and linen/cotton (35%). This is what ensures the hygroscopicity of the back side of the fabric and the protective properties of the outer surface.
Variation of the composition allows changing the wear resistance and strength of the canvas material. To ensure the waterproofness of the fabric, it is treated with Teflon impregnation. Thanks to this, the fabric does not absorb dirt, does not let in cold and it becomes very easy to care for it. Only light cleaning with a dry brush or damp sponge is enough.
Thanks to the polyester in the composition, the fabric does not wrinkle, does not deform, is well dyed and adapts to different textures at the manufacturer's discretion. Polyester itself is very light, despite its strength, and these qualities are transferred to the canvas. Canvas does not smell and does not absorb odors, which is undoubtedly a big plus, because the fabric is often used in the manufacture of upholstery for furniture and workwear. And the resistance to dirt provided by nylon eliminates all possible analogues.
The natural component of the fabric is responsible for its hypoallergenic properties and softness.
Advantages of Innovative Canvas
The fabric now resembles its "great-grandfather" canvas only in its special weave. Otherwise, it is a completely new, high-tech material that is in demand not only among furniture manufacturers, but also among fashion brands.
It is chosen due to some characteristics that are necessary for sewing truly durable items:
- Durability is the calling card of canvas. It is the most durable material available and has an impressive service life.
- Resistance to deformation comes from strength, but here we cannot help but add that the fabric does not wrinkle.
- The canvas does not pill throughout its entire service life.
- Breathability is ensured by weaving.
- Moisture resistance thanks to Teflon impregnation.
- Softness and tactile pleasure provided by the addition of cotton or linen.
- Color retention.
- Caring for the fabric is more than simple and quick, especially since the fabric dries quickly.
Important: The wear resistance of the canvas material is 10 times higher than the requirements of GOST. The products live with their owners all their lives without deforming. And even after aging, the canvas does not lose its charm, since scuffs and cracks give the fabric a new sound, creating a unique, inimitable pattern.
What is sewn from canvas?
As stated above, the fabric has only advantages and no disadvantages. That is why it has such a wide range of applications.
- Furniture upholstery - bright colors, laconic designs, severity or simplicity. Furniture not only looks amazing, but is also very durable in use. It is impossible to make snags or leave scratches on it. Pet owners will definitely appreciate this, especially since the fabric does not cling to hair.
- Even well-known brands supply canvas covers, bags, and backpacks.
- Sportswear, work uniform, army gear. The fabric is ideal for an active lifestyle, as it does not absorb odors and is very durable. It can be left unwashed for a long time, requiring only dry cleaning with a brush or surface cleaning with a damp sponge.
- Footwear and sports items such as knee pads, elbow pads for active recreation. Canvas sneakers do not develop dark cracks and rough abrasions. They have an even longer service life than leather shoes.
- Decorative interior elements. The fabric can be stylized as a "safari" style, which can create a cozy and stylish atmosphere in the house. Various prints, which are often made on canvas, attract both young people who want to combine comfort and style, and people of a respectable age who choose practicality.
Even without dyeing, which is usually done using thermal printing, the fabric is in great demand. It fits well into the military or eco style.
Canvas curtains
Canvas is very often found in interior projects, especially in the form of curtains. Curtains made of this material are popular with those who prefer the Scandinavian style. Laconic shades or bold prints could not leave designers indifferent, especially since they perfectly combine lightness, resistance to deformation and color fading in the sun and, of course, the blackout effect.
Please note. Even tulle canvas has been created in home textiles. This type of canvas is distinguished by its airiness and gloss, which cannot be repeated in other materials.
Material care
Despite the fact that the canvas is designed for use in extreme conditions, it is extremely easy to care for.
- In the case of canvas furniture, it is enough to simply vacuum the fabric or clean it with a brush. These methods can quickly remove dust and dry dirt. If the dirt is serious, a sponge moistened with soapy water will help.
- Clothes or items such as a backpack or cover can be washed by hand or in a washing machine if the dimensions allow. The temperature should not exceed 30%.
- The canvas dries instantly, you just need to shake the product. Curtains made of tulle or drapes can even be hung damp, they will dry very quickly. Ironing is not required, since the products do not wrinkle, but if desired, you can smooth the fabric as much as possible with a cold iron or with steam.
What consumers say about the fabric
Reviews of the fabric are extremely positive, so it is often used to sew bags and musical instrument covers. Canvas is used both as a lining and as a base layer.
- (Anastasia, 28 years old) — I bought blackout curtains made of canvas for the bedroom, since I work the night shift and have to sleep during the day. They perform their function perfectly. Not a single ray of sunlight penetrates through them. They are also very convenient for darkening the room for watching movies on a projector.
- (Lidiya, 47 years old) — Having suffered with the care of heavy curtains in the living room, I decided to replace them with curtains made of canvas material. I really like the ability to get rid of the dust that constantly settles on the curtains with a regular vacuum cleaner. With my bad back, frequent washing and ironing of curtains is a real torment.
- (Anton, 31 years old) My parents have a canvas sofa and they are very happy with it, because they are not familiar with the problem of removing stains from a light-colored sofa or armchair. I also like the easy care of this practical material and the fact that cleaning does not leave any marks. I am also going to buy one.
- (Lisa, 34 years old) My furniture is upholstered in canvas and it's lovely! I have a fluffy Persian cat who can destroy any furniture when he sharpens his claws, but the sofa and armchairs have been intact for several years. And it's easy to remove fur from canvas, it doesn't stick and is easily collected with a brush or vacuum cleaner.
Canvas is a fabric that has no competitors, suitable for sewing products in almost all areas of human activity. And the product itself will please the owner for many years.
