Waxed Canvas: Dating back to the 15th Century - New to us

June 08, 2023

When we decided to explore working with a new material, it was important that it wasn’t just any material, it needed to fit not only with our leathers, but also with our brand and what’s important to us. Bring on the research.

There are many similarities and parallels between waxed cotton and leather which make them handsome partners. From durability and longevity, to how both will evolve over time naturally pick up marks and creases through use, creating a beautiful patina and adding character to the piece, unique to the owner. Ultimately creating a one of a kind product.

Both materials can be maintained by the user, by applying waxes. The natural oils can be put back into the leather just as the waxed canvas weather proofing can be topped up. The waxed cotton will adjust to ambient temperature to be softer in warm weather and stiffer in cold conditions, as the leather can also be affected by its environment.

The origins of waxed cotton can be traced back to the 15^th century when hardy North Sea sailors began treating their sails with fish oils and grease to help keep them waterproof. The used sails were often then up-cycled to create strong durable capes, warm and waterproof.

We have sourced our waxed canvas from the great British outdoor innovator, Halley Stevensons. Based in Dundee, Scotland. Boasting over 150 years of heritage and experience, their waxed canvas is arguably the finest available and is sought after throughout the world.

Over the years many pioneering innovations, a wealth of technical knowledge and experience has allowed Halley Stevensons to create the densely woven strong durable waxed cotton we know and love today. They have been making cloth on the same site at their Baltic Works factory since 1864, their clients include some of the biggest names in British outdoor gear and fashion.

We hand make our products, designed to last a lifetime. Our leather is a byproduct, and is ultimately biodegradable. We are passionate about provenance, and with sustainability at the forefront of our minds, it was important to us that any new material is also responsibly sourced. Halley Stevensons’ waxes are fully biodegradable, and are even sourced as a byproduct which makes their waxed canvas a natural partner to our naturally tanned leather.

Being able to support British manufacturing is important to us. Halley Stevensons is an independent company who source their raw materials responsibly and pride themselves on low impact manufacturing to keep their footprint light on the planet. So naturally, Halley Stevensons and their legendary waxed canvas were an obvious choice for us, they really are the original GOAT when it comes to waxed canvas! They have kindly shared some photos from their Baltic Works factory and archive, we hope you enjoy viewing them.

15th Century Baltic Works factory - Waxed Cotton

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