Truck tarp and tent on a car using Razorback fabric

Can you imagine creating a product that must endure Australia’s fierce storms, scorching heat, and high humidity? Outdoor fabrics face relentless challenges, from punishing UV rays to mould and mildew. Whether you're designing tarpaulins, tents, or canopies, choosing the right fabric is critical.


Canvas, with its blend of natural and synthetic fibres, offers the perfect solution. It combines the softness and natural aesthetic of traditional fabrics with the strength and durability of modern materials, making it appealing for many people, ideal for products used for outdoors and recreational products around people. This guide covers everything you need to know to ensure your products can stand up to Australia’s extreme weather conditions.

 

Table of Content:

 

What material is canvas made of?

Traditionally, canvas has been made from cotton or linen, but thanks to modern advancements, we can now create it from a blend of polyester along with natural and synthetic fibres. This fabric is well-known for its tight weave, giving it exceptional strength and durability. It often gets additional treatments that make it waterproof and resistant to harsh weather conditions.

By combining cotton with polyester, we get a fabric that perfectly balances durability and performance, making it ideal for outdoor use. The polyester adds strength, ensuring the fabric can withstand wear and tear, while also providing water-repellent properties and keeping it lightweight.

This combination helps reduce shrinkage and wrinkling, so the material stays durable and easy to maintain. Cotton allows for breathability, while polyester helps the fabric dry quickly, which is a big plus.

Razorback Canvas is crafted using a blend of polyester & cotton yarns, so it really shines in all Australian conditions. It goes through Paskal's modern proofing process, which ensures UV stabilisation, colour fastness, and protection against mould and mildew.

These qualities make Razorback Poly Cotton Canvas perfect for all sorts of Indoor and Outdoor products, including tarpaulins, tarps, custom outdoor tents, durable patio furniture covers, waterproof camping tents, garden umbrellas, sun-proof awnings, automotive upholstery, and canopies.

Razorback tarpaulin on truckTent made from Razorback canvas

Each of these applications regularly faces the elements, so the fabric’s durability and resistance to the weather are crucial for reliable performance.

 

Is canvas an expensive material?

The price of canvas fabric often reflects its quality, how it’s made, and any special treatments it undergoes. The combination of natural and synthetic fibres enhances the value of the product, creating a fabric that offers unique benefits. While high-quality canvases are often associated with natural fibres like cotton or linen, incorporating synthetic options can enhance performance and durability without significantly increasing costs.

The manufacturing process plays a crucial role, as crafting that tight, durable weave requires time and skill. Many canvas fabrics also receive special treatments to improve their performance, such as waterproofing or UV protection, adding to the overall value.

By blending natural and synthetic fibres, you get a material that not only feels great and looks natural but also stands up to the elements, making it ideal for various applications. While canvas may initially seem pricey, its longevity and versatility provide long-term value, making it a smart investment.

 

Is canvas a heavy-duty fabric?

Yes, canvas is considered a heavy-duty fabric, particularly when it is made from thick, tightly woven fibres. The right weaving technique plays a crucial role in enhancing the fabric's durability and strength, making it suitable for various applications such as outdoor gear, tents, tarps, and upholstery.

In addition to its robust weave, canvas often undergoes specific treatments that improve its resistance to water, mildew, and UV rays. These treatments further bolster its heavy-duty nature, ensuring it can withstand harsh conditions and frequent use, making it an ideal choice for products exposed to the elements.

 

Is canvas eco-friendly?

Recycling canvas depends largely on its composition. While canvas can be made using recycled and organic yarns, recycling it back to raw materials becomes complex, especially with blends of natural and synthetic fibres. In the case of 100% cotton, the process is straightforward. However, when natural and synthetic fibres are tightly woven together, separating them becomes difficult. Adding zippers or fasteners further complicates recycling efforts.

If you want to make your canvas products more sustainable, focus on how the canvas is produced. Here's what to look for:

  • Choose canvas treated with PFAS-free, non-toxic chemicals to avoid environmental harm.
  • Ensure the manufacturer uses processes that prevent the canvas from leaching harmful chemicals into the environment.
  • Check that manufacturers properly treat wastewater and follow environmental regulations, using effective systems like Effluent Treatment Plants (ETP), with Reverse Osmosis and Multi-Effect Evaporators in place.
  • Consider upcycling products to extend their life by repurposing them for other uses.

By paying attention to these factors, you can reduce the environmental impact of canvas products significantly.

Razorback Canvas is designed with both durability and sustainability in mind, making it an ideal choice for industries that require tough materials without compromising environmental responsibility. Here's how we meet the key requirements mentioned:

  • Sustainability in Production: We manufacture Razorback Canvas using eco-friendly processes, including PFAS-free treatments, ensuring harmful chemicals are not used during production. This is crucial to protect the environment, as PFAS substances are toxic and persistent in nature.
  • Energy Efficiency: We incorporate energy-efficient technologies in the production of Razorback Canvas, such as the use of Multi-Effect Evaporators (MEE). These systems reduce waste and recycle water throughout the process, minimizing energy consumption and water usage.
  • Recyclability: While Razorback Canvas is made from a poly-cotton blend, which can make recycling a bit more challenging due to the combination of natural and synthetic fibres, its long lifespan helps reduce the need for frequent replacements. This contributes to less waste over time, as the durability of our canvas ensures it lasts longer.
  • Environmental Compliance: We adhere to strict environmental regulations and ensure our wastewater treatment systems are up to par. Our systems include advanced technologies like reverse osmosis to purify water used in production, ensuring it's safely returned to the environment.

By focusing on sustainability and environmental responsibility, we ensure Razorback Canvas not only performs under demanding conditions but also contributes to a more sustainable future. Whether withstanding extreme weather or meeting eco-friendly standards, Razorback Canvas is engineered to excel in both performance and responsibility.

Poly Cotton Sewing Threads in various colours

While poly-cotton blends are not biodegradable, their durability and low-maintenance qualities make them a practical choice over pure cotton. This fabric blend is built to withstand wear and tear, offering a longer lifespan and reducing the frequency of replacements. For those who value longevity and ease of care, poly-cotton blends are a smart, reliable option, even if they don’t break down as easily as natural fibres.

That’s why we confidently back Razorback Canvas’ performance in outdoor conditions for up to 5 years! It’s UV resistant, mildew and mould resistant, highly water resistant, and dimensionally stable, built to withstand the harsh Australian weather.

However, as great as that sounds, it doesn’t mean you can neglect proper care and maintenance. Taking a little time to look after your canvas will ensure it continues to perform at its best, extending its lifespan and effectiveness.

 

How to care for your canvas

Follow these care instructions to keep your canvas robust and resilient for years to come.

    • Wet the canvas thoroughly before use and allow it to dry. Repeat 2-3 times to ensure seams are sealed.
    • Clean canvas regularly with a soft brush, inside and outside.
    • Hose canvas occasionally with clear, cold water. Start at the lower edges and work upwards.
    • Avoid soaps, detergents, cleaning fluids, insecticides, petrol, solvents, kerosene and other similar fluids.
    • Ensure the canvas is dry before putting it away.
    • Keep the canvas clear of bird droppings, dirt, sand and vegetable matter.
    • Brush mildew spots off canvas before they stain.
    • Treat persistent mould or mildew growth with White King solution (following the solution’s instructions).
    • Extensively cleaned canvas may require reproofing. We recommend Paskal Proofcoat.

Paskal Proofcoat on display

If you want to ensure your customers take proper care of your products, share this blog with them!

 

What should I use to reproof my canvas?

To maintain the quality and longevity of your canvas, it is always best to use the product recommended by the supplier or manufacturer. By doing so, you ensure that the chemistry of the reproofing agent is compatible with the canvas, which is crucial for optimal performance. For waterproof canvas techniques, the right product ensures that the waterproofing solution works effectively without damaging the fabric.

For Razorback Canvas, a highly effective waterproofing product is Proofcoat, a high-strength waterproof coating made from a special blend of waxes and anti-mould agents. Proofcoat stands out for its ability to restore canvas materials like tents, sunblinds, tarpaulins, and annexes. The benefits of Proofcoat include not only restoring waterproofness but also reinforcing resistance to mould and mildew, making it a strong contender when comparing Proofcoat vs other waterproofing products. This product excels at reviving cotton-based canvas materials, ensuring they remain durable and functional.

Although products like canvas waterproofing spray or Proofcoat are excellent options, it’s important to remember that there is no permanent canvas waterproofing solution. Like any fabric, canvas will degrade over time. The rate of degradation largely depends on exposure to the environment, including harsh weather conditions and the duration of exposure. As a general guideline, it's best to reproof your canvas every 2-3 years, or when signs of ageing or reduced performance are evident. By following proper waterproofing techniques for canvas, such as using products like Proofcoat, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your outdoor canvas and keep it in peak condition.

 

How to use Paskal proofcoat

Paskal Proofcoat on display

We recommend using Paskal Proofcoat to extend the lifespan of your outdoor canvas. Please apply the proofcoat as instructed below for best results!

1. Stir the Proofcoat thoroughly before starting to ensure it's well mixed.
2. Prepare the canvas by making sure it is dry and free from any dirt or dust.
3. Check the temperature before applying. For the best results, apply Proofcoat when the temperature is 15°C or higher.
4. Choose your application method—you can use a brush, roller, or spray gun to apply the product.
5. Apply evenly across the canvas in a well-ventilated area, making sure not to over-saturate the fabric. Only use as much Proofcoat as the canvas can absorb.
6. Let it dry for at least 24 hours before exposing the canvas to moisture.
7. Clean your equipment immediately after use with mineral turpentine, followed by warm, soapy water.


What is the best waterproof canvas?

Waterproof canvas, often known as a tarp, is essential for outdoor applications. One common issue with canvas and water is shrinkage, which can compromise the fit and integrity of outdoor gear. Waterproof canvas excels here, as it is designed to resist moisture absorption, reducing shrinkage and helping products maintain their shape and functionality even when wet.

However, for items like tents and tarps, breathability is just as important as waterproofing. If the canvas is too waterproof, it can limit airflow, trapping moisture inside. When moisture can't pass through, condensation builds up, creating a damp environment. This not only makes things uncomfortable but also leads to mould growth over time. So, finding the right balance between waterproofing and breathability is crucial for optimal performance in outdoor settings, as it helps prevent condensation and keeps the environment dry and comfortable.

Canvas is often waterproofed using a wax or oil coating, in which a layer of wax is applied to the fabric to seal the fibres and block moisture. Wax coatings have long been valued for their effectiveness in creating a water-resistant barrier, offering excellent protection against rain and moisture. While modern treatments such as silicone or polyurethane coatings are now available, providing a durable waterproof barrier with added flexibility, wax remains a tried-and-true method. It is still highly regarded for its ability to enhance the fabric's waterproofing while maintaining its natural feel and breathability. Both methods offer solid protection, but wax delivers a timeless, reliable option for waterproofing.

A tightly woven fabric is crucial for waterproof canvas as it not only enhances its waterproof capabilities but also prevents water from penetrating the material. Additionally, waterproof canvas is treated to resist mould and mildew, which is particularly important in humid outdoor conditions where moisture can lead to growth and degradation.

Another key feature of waterproof canvas is breathability, which helps to prevent condensation from forming inside the fabric. This balance of waterproofing and breathability ensures that your canvas remains durable and functional, making it ideal for various outdoor applications.

When choosing a waterproof canvas, it’s important to look out for shrinkage specifications. The lower the shrinkage percentage, the less the fabric will shrink when exposed to water, helping to maintain the integrity of your outdoor product. Another crucial factor is the hydrostatic head, a test that measures how much water pressure is required before the fabric leaks. A higher hydrostatic head indicates better waterproofing performance, which is vital for tents and tarps used in wet conditions.

Razorback TT Truck TarpRazorback on a vehicle

Here’s an example of Razorback TT Canvas specifications to help you understand key factors like shrinkage and waterproofing:

Shrinkage: Warp 2%, Weft 1%
These percentages indicate the maximum amount the fabric will shrink after drying from water exposure. The lower the percentage, the less the fabric will shrink, helping maintain the product’s integrity.

Hydrostatic Head: 750mm minimum
This number shows how much water pressure (in millimetres) is required before fabric leakage occurs. The test involves placing a tube of water on top of the fabric and gradually adding more water until the fabric leaks. A higher hydrostatic head means better waterproofing performance, crucial for outdoor applications like tents and tarps.

Razorback Canvas is designed with a poly-cotton blend for optimal breathability, preventing condensation that can lead to shrinkage. Its advanced controlled drying technique minimises shrinkage, while a modern proofing process prevents the spread of mould and mildew, enhancing fabric longevity. The water resistance varies between Razorback 8 and Razorback TT, with the TT offering a higher hydrostatic head for better protection. Additionally, Razorback Canvas contains no heavy metals or mercury, setting it apart from other canvases on the market.

All these features are the result of Razorback’s meticulous manufacturing process. It begins with a tightly woven loom state base fabric, using a blended 2-ply polyester/cotton ring-spun yarn in both directions. From there, we:

- Scour the fabric to remove oils, lubricants, and impurities
- Immerse it in a pad bath filled with colour, mildew, and water-resistant treatments
- Pass it through nip rollers to squeeze the chemicals into the fabric
- Dry it by passing it through high-temperature steam-filled cylinders, allowing the fabric to relax naturally
- Repeat the process to reinforce our treatment.

With tear and shrink-resistant capabilities, Razorback durable canvas is designed to last through extreme weather, season after season. However, after many seasons of use and washing, the fabric may need reproofing. Using Proofcoat - Canvas Re-proofing, a clear wax-based compound, you can restore its waterproofing properties. This reproofing solution also contains fungicide to help resist mould growth. For coverage, keep in mind that 4 litres will cover approximately 10 square metres, ensuring your canvas remains durable and protected.

 

What is ripstop canvas used for?

What is ripstop canvas text on Razorback TT fabric

Ripstop canvas is an incredibly durable fabric that features a tear stop construction, making it a go-to choice for outdoor gear, automotive applications, upholstery, and workwear.

What makes ripstop canvas so special is its unique design, which involves a reinforcing technique that weaves thicker threads into a grid pattern. This construction prevents tears and rips from spreading, providing reliability in challenging conditions.

RazorBack TT Dark Grey RazorBack 12 Ripstop Black

Additionally, both tear strength and tensile strength are key considerations for ripstop canvas. Tear strength measures how much force is required to tear the fabric, while tensile strength refers to the force needed to completely rip it apart. These high strength levels ensure that ripstop canvas performs well under high tension and stress, making it ideal for demanding outdoor applications.

Here’s an example of Razorback TT Canvas specifications to help you understand key factors like tear strength and tensile strength:

Tear Strength: Warp - 207N Weft - 125N
Tear strength refers to the amount of force required to tear the fabric. This is assessed by clamping the fabric between two machines and pulling it in different directions to measure its resistance. The higher the number, the more resistant the fabric is to tearing, making it ideal for high-contact applications. For Razorback Canvas, the strong tear strength ensures it stands up to demanding use in outdoor environments.

Tensile Strength: Warp - 2300N Weft - 1700N
Tensile strength refers to the amount of force required to rip the fabric. Unlike tear strength, tensile strength is measured by clamping opposite sides of the canvas and pulling it apart to assess how much resistance the fabric has to being completely ripped. The higher the number, the more resistant the canvas is to being torn apart, making it perfect for high-tension applications. This robust tensile strength ensures that the canvas excels in demanding outdoor conditions, withstanding the forces that come with extreme weather.

Ripstop canvas is particularly well-suited for heavy-duty camping tents and other outdoor essentials like tarps and backpacks. It also serves well for protective covers and upholstery in vehicles, ensuring it can withstand various challenges.

 

What are the disadvantages of ripstop?

While ripstop canvas is known for its strength and versatility, there are a few things to consider. The added yarns in the ripstop weave make it slightly heavier and more expensive than a plain weave, though the difference is usually minor. If weight is a critical factor, this could be a concern.

Additionally, the grid pattern in ripstop's weave gives the fabric a distinct texture and look. Some may not like the appearance, while others might find it adds a unique touch. Ultimately, it's a matter of preference and the fabric's intended use.

On the flip side, ripstop canvas offers some amazing benefits. Its enhanced stability makes it ideal for outdoor tents and tarps, built to withstand wind and pressure. The fabric's tear-resistant design means it can endure more wear and tear, so products made from ripstop last longer. While there are a few drawbacks, like added weight and cost, the strength and reliability of ripstop make it an excellent choice for anyone needing durable outdoor gear.

Razorback UluruRazorback Tarp
Whatever your end use may be, the Razorback Range has a ripstop option tailored to meet your needs, offering varying weights and poly-cotton blends.

 

Razorback Canvas Specifications Table

Canvas

RAZORBACK

8

RAZORBACK

8 RIPSTOP

RAZORBACK

12

RAZORBACK

12 RIPSTOP

RAZORBACK

TT

Weight

380gsm

380gsm

520gsm

520gsm

520gsm

Fabric

65% Polyester / 35% Cotton

65% Polyester / 35% Cotton

52% Polyester / 48% Cotton

52% Polyester / 48% Cotton

Polyester 50% / Cotton 50%

Shrinkage

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Warp – 2%

Weft – 0.5%

Warp - 2% 

Weft - 1%

Hydrostatic Head

(AS2001.2.17)

550mm minimum

550mm minimum

700mm minimum

750mm minimum

750mm minimum

Tear Strength

(AS2001.2.10)

Warp - 45N

Weft - 35N

Warp - 80N

Weft - 60N

Warp - 70N

Weft - 45N

Warp – 60N

Weft - 50N

Warp - 207N

Weft - 125N

Tensile Strength

(AS2001.2.3)

Warp - 1600N/50mm

Weft - 1000N/50mm

Warp - 1900N/50mm

Weft - 1400N/50mm

Warp - 2000N/50mm

Weft - 1350N/50mm

Warp - 2300N/50mm

Weft - 1700N/50mm

Warp - 2300N

Weft - 1700N

Applications

RAZORBACK

8

RAZORBACK

8 RIPSTOP

RAZORBACK

12

RAZORBACK

12 RIPSTOP

RAZORBACK

TT

Small tarpaulins

Medium tarpaulins

 

 

Heavy tarpaulins

 

 

 

Hire tarpaulins

 

 

Tent roof and walls

 

Swags and canopies

 

 

Camper trailers

 

 

Annex roofing

 

 

 

 

Dog beds

Tool bags

 

Annex walls

 

 

Canvas

RAZORBACK

8

RAZORBACK

8 RIPSTOP

Weight

380gsm

380gsm

Fabric

65% Polyester / 35% Cotton

65% Polyester / 35% Cotton

Shrinkage

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Hydrostatic Head

(AS2001.2.17)

550mm minimum

550mm minimum

Tear Strength

(AS2001.2.10)

Warp - 45N

Weft - 35N

Warp - 80N

Weft - 60N

Tensile Strength

(AS2001.2.3)

Warp - 1600N/50mm

Weft - 1000N/50mm

Warp - 1900N/50mm

Weft - 1400N/50mm

Applications

RAZORBACK

8

RAZORBACK

8 RIPSTOP

Small tarpaulins

Medium tarpaulins

 

 

Heavy tarpaulins

 

 

Hire tarpaulins

 

 

Tent roof and walls

Swags and canopies

 

 

Camper trailers

 

 

Annex roofing

 

 

Dog beds

Tool bags

 

Annex walls

Canvas

RAZORBACK

12

RAZORBACK

12 RIPSTOP

Weight

520gsm

520gsm

Fabric

52% Polyester / 48% Cotton

52% Polyester / 48% Cotton

Shrinkage

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Warp – 2%

Weft – 0.5%

Hydrostatic Head

(AS2001.2.17)

700mm minimum

750mm minimum

Tear Strength

(AS2001.2.10)

Warp - 70N

Weft - 45N

Warp – 60N

Weft - 50N

Tensile Strength

(AS2001.2.3)

Warp - 2000N/50mm

Weft - 1350N/50mm

Warp - 2300N/50mm

Weft - 1700N/50mm

Applications

RAZORBACK

12

RAZORBACK

12 RIPSTOP

Small tarpaulins

Medium tarpaulins

Heavy tarpaulins

 

Hire tarpaulins

Tent roof and walls

Swags and canopies

Camper trailers

Annex roofing

 

Dog beds

Tool bags

Annex walls

 

Canvas

RAZORBACK

TT

Weight

520gsm

Fabric

Polyester 50% / Cotton 50%

Shrinkage

Warp - 2% 

Weft - 1%

Hydrostatic Head

(AS2001.2.17)

750mm minimum

Tear Strength

(AS2001.2.10)

Warp - 207N

Weft - 125N

Tensile Strength

(AS2001.2.3)

Warp - 2300N

Weft - 1700N

Applications

RAZORBACK

TT

Small tarpaulins

Medium tarpaulins

Heavy tarpaulins

Hire tarpaulins

Tent roof and walls

 

Swags and canopies

Camper trailers

Annex roofing

 

Dog beds

Tool bags

Annex walls

 

Key Specifications:

  • Weight - GSM: An acronym for Grams per Square Metre, this indicates the weight of the fabric, which can influence its durability and performance.
  • Fabric: Refers to the blend of fibres used, whether natural or synthetic, which affects the overall characteristics of the canvas.
  • Shrinkage: Indicates the maximum shrinkage range after drying from water exposure, important for maintaining fit and integrity.
  • Hydrostatic Head: Measures how resistant the fabric is to water leakage, providing insight into its waterproof capabilities.
  • Tear Strength: Describes how resistant the fabric is to tearing, ensuring reliability in high-contact situations.
  • Tensile Strength: Indicates how resistant the fabric is to ripping, making it suitable for applications that require high tension durability.

 

How waterproof is ripstop?

A common question many ask is whether ripstop affects how waterproof canvas is. Unfortunately, the ripstop technique has little impact on waterproofing. While the extra threads might seem helpful, the real waterproofing comes from the treatment of the canvas. Nowadays, canvas is treated with modern synthetic compounds like silicone or polyurethane, which keep the fabric flexible, durable, and long-lasting for outdoor use.

Today, our Razorback’s modern proofing process locks in all the critical properties of water resistance, UV stabilisation, colour fastness, and mould and mildew inhibitors. This ensures that Razorback canvas offers the best water resistance available on the market.

 

What is the heaviest canvas material?

The heaviest canvas material, typically #1 cotton duck canvas, weighs around 610 to 814 grams per square metre, making it one of the thickest and strongest types of canvas available. This heavy-duty material is commonly used for military-grade products due to its ability to withstand significant wear and tear.

On the other hand, lighter canvas options, such as Razorback Canvas, offer advantages for easier setup and transportation, making them ideal for items like camping gear or patio furniture covers. Razorback Canvas provides enough durability for outdoor use without the excessive weight, which would be impractical for everyday handling.

Additionally, Razorback Canvas accommodates specific applications like industrial tarps, 4x4 seat covers, and custom truck covers. These options balance durability with breathability, preventing condensation and allowing airflow, which is crucial for products exposed to changing weather conditions. Heavy canvas might be overkill for such items, adding unnecessary bulk and weight without offering extra benefits for lighter-duty needs.

 

What is a heavy-duty zipper suitable for heavy duty usage?

When you join two panels of canvas with a zipper, choosing a heavy-duty zipper is key to making sure everything stays durable and functional. This is especially important in products like tents, awnings, tarps, and custom covers, where the zipper not only acts as a closure but also provides easy access while keeping everything securely sealed.

Having a heavy-duty zipper in these situations is crucial for a few reasons. First, it needs to withstand constant tension and stress, especially when the panels are battling the elements like wind and rain. A robust zipper can handle that strain without bending or breaking, ensuring the panels stay attached even in tough conditions.

For heavy-duty applications, it is recommended to use a size 10 zipper, also known as No 10, as it provides the necessary strength and durability to withstand demanding conditions.

Additionally, the zipper should feature larger teeth and reinforced tape to minimise wear and tear. Moulded zippers are particularly suitable for outdoor applications because they can better handle water and impurities, providing a reliable seal in challenging conditions. Coil zippers are also a great choice as they can handle moulding around corners without buckling out, ensuring a smooth operation and fit for various applications.

Here is an example specification of No 10 Premium Coil Zipper to help you understand key features such as lateral strength, holding strength of open-end unit and slider over top stop strength.

Lateral strength: 1,370N (140kg)

Lateral strength is all about how much sideways force a zipper can handle before it either comes undone or breaks. This is especially important for zippers used in heavy-duty applications, like canvas camping tents or industrial covers, where they need to withstand a lot of wear and tear. A strong lateral strength means you can trust the zipper to keep everything secure, no matter what.

Holding strength of an open-end unit zipper: 218N (22kg)

The holding strength of an open-end zipper is all about how much force it can take before the two sides pull apart when it's zipped up. This is key for items like jackets, tool bags, or canvas camping tents anything that needs to stay securely fastened under pressure. A strong zipper means your gear stays closed and secure, even when it's being put to the test.

Slider over top stop strength: 218N (22kg)

This measurement tells you how much force it takes for the slider to get pulled past the top stop—basically when the slider is forced off the end of the zipper. It is a crucial factor, especially in items like tool bag, outdoor gear, or heavy-duty covers, where zippers can face a lot of stress. If too much force is applied, the zipper could get damaged. So, knowing this can help prevent issues when you are using gear that is meant to handle tough conditions.

Ultimately, investing in a heavy-duty zipper for joining canvas panels not only enhances the product's longevity but also improves user experience by ensuring reliable and functional closures that stand the test of time.

 

What is the difference between #8 and #10 zippers?

To understand the difference between two zippers, you first need to know what the size number stands for. This number corresponds to the width of the zipper teeth when the zipper is closed, measured from edge to edge. For instance, a No. 10 Premium Coil Zip has a teeth width of 10mm, while a No. 8 Premium Coil Zip has a teeth width of 8mm. The size of the zipper directly correlates with its strength and intended application.

A No. 8 zipper is a mid-weight choice that's quite versatile, making it suitable for various applications where coil zippers are used. It's perfect for those who want something that’s not too small but also not overly bulky. You'll often find No. 8 zippers in luggage and bags, where high strength isn't as critical for holding the canvas together.

On the other hand, a No. 10 zipper is heavier and stronger, making it more suitable for heavy-duty use, such as canvas camping tents, tool bags, or industrial covers. The difference in lateral strength between a No. 8 and a No. 10 zipper is large. For example, a No. 10 Premium Coil Zip can withstand up to 140kg of perpendicular force before coming undone, while a No. 8 Premium Coil Zip can handle about 97kg of perpendicular force before breaking.

So, if strength and durability are crucial for your specific application, choosing a No. 10 zipper is the way to go. This ensures that your product can withstand the demands of its intended use without failing.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right fabric for outdoor products like tarpaulins, tents, and canopies is key to ensuring they stand up to Australia’s unpredictable weather. Canvas, especially poly-cotton blends like Razorback Canvas, strikes the perfect balance between durability and breathability, making it a fantastic choice for a wide range of applications.

By opting for high-quality materials, you’re not just investing in products that will last—you’re also giving your customers peace of mind knowing they can rely on their gear, no matter what nature throws at them. Plus, with a bit of care and maintenance, these products can serve them well for many seasons, making them a smart choice for outdoor adventures.

If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below! I’d love to help. For your convenience the table below showcase the specifications and usage case of the Razorback Canvas.

Canvas

RAZORBACK

8

RAZORBACK

8 RIPSTOP

RAZORBACK

12

RAZORBACK

12 RIPSTOP

RAZORBACK

TT

Weight

380gsm

380gsm

520gsm

520gsm

520gsm

Fabric

65% Polyester / 35% Cotton

65% Polyester / 35% Cotton

52% Polyester / 48% Cotton

52% Polyester / 48% Cotton

Polyester 50% / Cotton 50%

Shrinkage

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Warp – 2%

Weft – 0.5%

Warp - 2% 

Weft - 1%

Hydrostatic Head

(AS2001.2.17)

550mm minimum

550mm minimum

700mm minimum

750mm minimum

750mm minimum

Tear Strength

(AS2001.2.10)

Warp - 45N

Weft - 35N

Warp - 80N

Weft - 60N

Warp - 70N

Weft - 45N

Warp – 60N

Weft - 50N

Warp - 207N

Weft - 125N

Tensile Strength

(AS2001.2.3)

Warp - 1600N/50mm

Weft - 1000N/50mm

Warp - 1900N/50mm

Weft - 1400N/50mm

Warp - 2000N/50mm

Weft - 1350N/50mm

Warp - 2300N/50mm

Weft - 1700N/50mm

Warp - 2300N

Weft - 1700N

Applications

RAZORBACK

8

RAZORBACK

8 RIPSTOP

RAZORBACK

12

RAZORBACK

12 RIPSTOP

RAZORBACK

TT

Small tarpaulins

Medium tarpaulins

 

 

Heavy tarpaulins

 

 

 

Hire tarpaulins

 

 

Tent roof and walls

 

Swags and canopies

 

 

Camper trailers

 

 

Annex roofing

 

 

 

 

Dog beds

Tool bags

 

Annex walls

 

 

Canvas

RAZORBACK

8

RAZORBACK

8 RIPSTOP

Weight

380gsm

380gsm

Fabric

65% Polyester / 35% Cotton

65% Polyester / 35% Cotton

Shrinkage

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Hydrostatic Head

(AS2001.2.17)

550mm minimum

550mm minimum

Tear Strength

(AS2001.2.10)

Warp - 45N

Weft - 35N

Warp - 80N

Weft - 60N

Tensile Strength

(AS2001.2.3)

Warp - 1600N/50mm

Weft - 1000N/50mm

Warp - 1900N/50mm

Weft - 1400N/50mm

Applications

RAZORBACK

8

RAZORBACK

8 RIPSTOP

Small tarpaulins

Medium tarpaulins

 

 

Heavy tarpaulins

 

 

Hire tarpaulins

 

 

Tent roof and walls

Swags and canopies

 

 

Camper trailers

 

 

Annex roofing

 

 

Dog beds

Tool bags

 

Annex walls

Canvas

RAZORBACK

12

RAZORBACK

12 RIPSTOP

Weight

520gsm

520gsm

Fabric

52% Polyester / 48% Cotton

52% Polyester / 48% Cotton

Shrinkage

Warp - 3% 

Weft - 1%

Warp – 2%

Weft – 0.5%

Hydrostatic Head

(AS2001.2.17)

700mm minimum

750mm minimum

Tear Strength

(AS2001.2.10)

Warp - 70N

Weft - 45N

Warp – 60N

Weft - 50N

Tensile Strength

(AS2001.2.3)

Warp - 2000N/50mm

Weft - 1350N/50mm

Warp - 2300N/50mm

Weft - 1700N/50mm

Applications

RAZORBACK

12

RAZORBACK

12 RIPSTOP

Small tarpaulins

Medium tarpaulins

Heavy tarpaulins

 

Hire tarpaulins

Tent roof and walls

Swags and canopies

Camper trailers

Annex roofing

 

Dog beds

Tool bags

Annex walls

 

Canvas

RAZORBACK

TT

Weight

520gsm

Fabric

Polyester 50% / Cotton 50%

Shrinkage

Warp - 2% 

Weft - 1%

Hydrostatic Head

(AS2001.2.17)

750mm minimum

Tear Strength

(AS2001.2.10)

Warp - 207N

Weft - 125N

Tensile Strength

(AS2001.2.3)

Warp - 2300N

Weft - 1700N

Applications

RAZORBACK

TT

Small tarpaulins

Medium tarpaulins

Heavy tarpaulins

Hire tarpaulins

Tent roof and walls

 

Swags and canopies

Camper trailers

Annex roofing

 

Dog beds

Tool bags

Annex walls

 

Key Specifications:

  • Weight - GSM: An acronym for Grams per Square Metre, this indicates the weight of the fabric, which can influence its durability and performance.
  • Fabric: Refers to the blend of fibres used, whether natural or synthetic, which affects the overall characteristics of the canvas.
  • Shrinkage: Indicates the maximum shrinkage range after drying from water exposure, important for maintaining fit and integrity.
  • Hydrostatic Head: Measures how resistant the fabric is to water leakage, providing insight into its waterproof capabilities.
  • Tear Strength: Describes how resistant the fabric is to tearing, ensuring reliability in high-contact situations.
  • Tensile Strength: Indicates how resistant the fabric is to ripping, making it suitable for applications that require high tension durability.