FABRIC TYPES

ARTIST COTTON CANVAS

At MCB Studio Backdrops, I work with 12oz and 14oz loomstate artist cotton canvas — the kind of material trusted by painters for generations.

This 100% cotton canvas is heavy-duty and uncompromising in quality, giving each backdrop exceptional strength and a graceful, straight fall. It’s built to hold layer upon layer of paint, which is exactly where the magic happens. Depth, warmth, and rich texture come alive through multiple coats, and this canvas is made to carry them beautifully.

Because it’s raw, untreated cotton, the paint seeps into the fibres, creating an organic, matte finish that feels timeless and tactile — nothing shiny or synthetic, just a natural surface that honours the hand-painted process.

Durable and robust, the weave can handle everything from subtle washes to heavy applications of paint without sagging, warping, or losing its shape. Whether you’re looking for a small, intimate piece or a sweeping, cinematic backdrop, this canvas rises to the challenge.

In short, it’s the finest foundation for a hand-painted backdrop — strong, enduring, and perfectly suited to become an artwork in its own right.

NESSEL CANVAS LIGHT

Not every backdrop needs to be heavy and rigid — sometimes the magic lies in something lighter, softer, and easier to move. That’s where 7oz Raw Nessel cotton canvas comes in.

This woven 100% cotton fabric has a smooth, flat surface that makes it perfect for painted backdrops, whether for a simple bagged drop or even large-scale sets. Because it’s lightweight, it folds or scrunches and travels beautifully — every Bagged Drop comes stored in a drawstring bag for easy transport.

When painted, Nessel responds differently to the heavier canvases. With just one or two coats, the paint soaks right through, creating an unexpected “B-side” on the reverse — a hidden texture that feels organic and unique. Its lighter nature also means it allows some light to pass through, so depending on your setup, it may need backing or placement away from direct windows.

Practical yet artistic, Nessel offers freedom: it drapes, cinches, and gathers with ease, giving photographers and stylists extra flexibility on set. And while it may be lighter than the heavyweight options, it still delivers the same durable quality you’d expect from artist canvas.

In short, 7oz cotton canvas is the go-anywhere, easy-to-handle backdrop fabric — versatile, foldable, and perfect for those who love a backdrop with character.