To dry waxed canvas, especially when dealing with wet spots or needing to re-set the wax, a common method involves using heat carefully. We hover a blow dryer on high a few inches above the fabric, moving quickly, not heating any particular spot too long.
Understanding Waxed Canvas and Drying
Waxed canvas is a durable fabric treated with wax to make it water-resistant. While it repels water effectively, it can still get damp or wet, especially if fully submerged or in persistently wet conditions. Proper drying is crucial to maintain its integrity and the effectiveness of the wax coating.
Unlike regular fabrics, you cannot simply toss waxed canvas into a machine dryer. High heat from a dryer can melt the wax, potentially ruining the item and damaging the machine. Air drying is the most common and safest method for general drying, but sometimes targeted heat is needed.
Using a Blow Dryer for Targeted Drying
Based on experience and the provided reference, a blow dryer offers a controlled way to dry specific areas or help the wax re-set slightly after cleaning or getting very wet.
Here's how to do it effectively:
- Position the Blow Dryer: Hold the blow dryer on a high heat setting.
- Maintain Distance: Keep the blow dryer a few inches (e.g., 3-6 inches) above the waxed canvas surface.
- Keep Moving: Crucially, keep the blow dryer moving quickly over the area you are drying. Do not hold it stationary over any single spot for long.
- Observe the Fabric: Watch the fabric as you go. The goal is to gently dry and warm it, not to melt the wax into a liquid state.
This method helps evaporate moisture from the fibers without causing the wax to overheat and migrate or seep excessively.
Other Drying Methods (For Context)
While the blow dryer method is useful for targeted areas or re-setting, general drying usually involves:
- Air Drying: Hang or lay the item flat in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or intense heat. This is the simplest and safest method for overall drying. Ensure good airflow around the item.
Drying Do's and Don'ts
Understanding what to avoid is as important as knowing what to do.
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Air dry in a ventilated space | Machine dry |
| Use a blow dryer hovering and moving | Hold heat source directly on one spot |
| Allow plenty of time for drying | Use intense direct heat (like an iron) |
| Ensure item is fully dry before storing | Store while damp (can cause mildew) |
Using a blow dryer as described helps manage moisture in specific areas while respecting the unique nature of the waxed coating.
