what is canvas made of?
A History of Canvas. Canvas is a heavy, closely woven fabric used for making sails, tents, covers, awnings and other functions where sturdiness is required. Typical weights range from 10 to 50 ounces per square yard. The word 'canvas' is derived from the Arabic word for cannabis, a Latin word meaning 'hemp'. In earlier times, hemp was popularly used to make canvas. Modern canvas is usually made of cotton, linen or synthetic materials. Canvas has a very simple weave - the weft thread just goes over one warp thread and under the next. Canvas is very hard-wearing, generally water-resistant.