Canvas is a very heavy-duty, plain-woven fabric. Artists often use the material for painting, but it is also commonly used for sails, backpacks, awnings, coverings and other purposes. Thanks to its flexibility and ruggedness, canvas is a very popular fabric. It can last for years, usually requires very little maintenance, comes in a rainbow of colors and can be stretched into almost any size or shape.

When it comes to home improvement, customers love canvas because it's a natural (it's often made from cotton) and recognizable fabric. Unlike some man-made fabrics, canvas often has a timeless look and appeal, which appeals to those with relatively traditional taste. Residential contractors, of course, make use of canvas, but businesses may also want to sell canvas products or use canvas to manufacture products of their own. If you're in the market for canvas, consider:

1. Contacting wholesale artist canvas suppliers for home renovation projects.

2. Buying cotton canvas from manufacturers for larger jobs requiring a traditional fabric.

3. Purchasing heavier canvas products for retail or projects.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Contact wholesale canvas distributors to buy artist canvas

Wholesale canvas distributors sell directly to businesses, typically in larger quantities than retailers. This is a great way to buy artist canvas for decor projects, for retail purposes and as material for use in product manufacturing. Artist canvas is often neutral, or not dyed, but has been treated so it's rather pliable and easy to use.

I recommend: Allens Artist Canvas sells artist-quality canvas of 100% cotton duck in 100 to 120 yard bolts. Dharma Trading Co. sells canvas and duck fabrics that are up to six feet wide.

Buy cotton canvas direct from manufacturers for larger projects

If you have a larger renovation project or if you want to create products using canvas, consider buying in bulk directly from the manufacturer. Buying cotton canvas is often the most practical choice for large projects, because this is the classic, versatile canvas that works equally well as decor, cover or outdoor project material. If you plan to use cotton canvas outdoors, look for a specially coated product.

I recommend: Humphrys Textile Products is one of the oldest canvas mills in the United States. They sell and make cotton canvas as well as other types of textiles. Top Value Fabrics is a converter, maker and seller of canvas products that sells cotton canvas in a variety of sizes and colors.

Buy canvas in the form of heavy-duty products

Some manufacturers sell canvas in ready-to-use products such as totes, room dividers and other products. This is an especially good way to buy larger items such as awnings, pool covers, boat covers and room dividers since manipulating large bolts of canvas into these products can be tricky. Buying durable canvas products wholesale allows you to retail these products or to use them as part of decorating projects for clients.

I recommend: Carolina CoverTech is known for manufacturing canvas awnings as well enclosures, boatlift covers and other accessories. Capital Awning Company has specialized in making canvas awnings but are also known for making canvas room dividers, canvas pool covers and more.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  It is possible to buy plain canvas or duck canvas. Duck canvas has threads that are more tightly woven. In addition to this distinction, canvas is also classified by weight and by a number system. The weight is measured by ounces per square yard. In the number system, the higher the number, the lighter the canvas.