100% natural cotton waxed fabric, also known as oilskin fabric. This lovely fabric has a slight sheen to it and a special antique effect finish which provides a rustic appearance once in use. It is widely used to make wax jackets and accessories in the UK however it can also be used for boat covers, tents, canopies, equestrian accessories or any type of outdoor covers. It is ideal for cold and wet weather.
Q: Is this fabric single waxed or double waxed?
A: It is a 2-fold (double) waxed fabric, and is mid-weight
Q: How can this fabric be compared to the coated nylon that is widely sold in terms of their water resisting ability?
A: They are both waterproof - the two main differences are: The main fabric, which is cotton in this case and nylon in case of the other; the second difference is the coating where this has a wax, the other has a PU coating.
Q: Can this fabric be washed in a washing machine?
A: NO - THIS FABRIC SHOULD NOT BE WASHED AT ALL it can only be wiped clean using cold water and a clean cloth. Neither detergents nor chemicals should ever be used.
Q: Would it require re-coating?
A: For normal uses like clothing items say, re-waxing is not required frequently if used with care. Wax being heavy tends to slowly move downward if a waxed jacket is kept hanging for some time! this can be easily re-waxed by just putting the jacket in the sun for some time - this tends to loosen up the wax and helps in self coating! there are wax sprays available if re-waxing is required and even some mills offer re-waxing facilities if required.
Q: Is this fabric suitable for leaving in the outdoors all year round?
A: No, it is only suitable for occasional use in the outdoors. Wax tends to loosen up with heat and harden up with cold weather hence if left outdoors continuously, this results in the fabric hardening up and in-turn tearing.