Materials and Construction

Why cotton duck canvas?

Canvas keeps on performing after years of use. There's no coating to wear off. Abrasion resistance is high compared to synthetics; it's natural fibers are more forgiving and pliable. If damaged, it's easily repaired with needle and thread.

Please note that cotton canvas is a natural product. Slight weaving imperfections and color variations are part of it's character and beauty.

....................

Will the canvas color fade over time?

Of course! This just adds to the character of the bag. Think of your favorite pair of Levi's, Army surplus rucksack or Converse hi-tops. Truth is, all dyed cotton canvas fades faster than synthetic fabrics, especially the darker colors. If you don't care for that "lived in" look, then canvas bags are probably not for you.

....................

I can't decide which color to choose...can you give me some suggestions?

Since black is...well, black, it will fade much faster than the tan. Black will absorb the sun's rays and get hotter. Lint and dust is more noticeable with the darker color. Also, items are harder to find inside a dark bag.

That said, both colors will complement most color schemes equally well, with tan having more of a vintage vibe. It's your call.

Actual fabric/leather color may vary slightly from what you see on your computer screen. Also, minor color changes from bag to bag are unavoidable due to dye lot differences.

....................

Aren't leather straps and buckles old-fashioned?

Leather has a long history. It's tactile, strong and forgiving. It'll age gracefully, developing a nice patina. And If it's good enough for Indiana Jones...

Admittedly, Velcro and Fastex buckles are more efficient, and save a couple extra seconds. However, Velco has a bad habit of sticking to things it shouldn't, while plastic buckles tend to get brittle over time.

....................

Are Acorn Bags waterproof?

There's two schools of thought: to use waxed or unwaxed canvas. A popular British bag maker uses waxed canvas. A respected French and Japanese bag maker uses unwaxed canvas.

We decided to opt for the unwaxed duck canvas...but our bags are still water resistant. Why? Natural canvas duck has fibers that swell and self-seal when exposed to water. A moisture barrier is created, but still allows the fabric to breathe. Waxed canvas bags will still need to be "re-proofed" every few years and you have to careful about mildew. We'll let you decide if and when you want to "proof" your bag. (Carradice and Nikwax make good cotton canvas re-proofers.)

A healthy dose of skepticism is needed when listening to claims of 100% waterproof bags. Often overlooked points of water entry include zippers, gaps between flap pockets, mounting strap pass-through holes and seams. Unless a floating waterproof liner is used, it's almost impossible to avoid some water entering your bag during a downpour. A good compromise is to keep a waterproof stuff sack in your bag.

....................

Will your bag unravel?

Canvas tends to unravel if the edges are left raw. We take extra care to finish all edges, inside and out, including hidden areas.

....................

Can you customize a bag?

Well...yes and no. If you would like us to add a small feature, such as lengthening a strap, adding D-rings or sewing on a patch, we're happy to oblige. However, we cannot easily change dimensions of the bag, because that would require drawing up new patterns.

..........................................................................

Care

How do I clean my Acorn Bag?

For canvas: Gentle brushing is best for loose dirt. For a more thorough cleaning, use a hand sponge with a mild natural soap (not detergent) in lukewarm water. Rinse twice with clean water.

For leather: A gentle leather cleaner/conditioner, like Lexol or Fiebing's, is all that's needed. Saddle soap is also a good choice.

....................

Should I put anything on the leather straps?

A protectant is recommended. You might already have a tin of Brooks Proofhide; Snoseal is an economical alternative. Neatsfoot oil is overkill, since it will oversaturate and darken the leather. Take care not to stain the canvas.

Copyright © 2008 Acorn Bags. All rights reserved.