Since I started up this site, I’ve received a couple emails asking me what the difference is between these 2 materials and how it effects the artist’s painting. Only knowing the basics, I decided I would dig in and do some research and get to the bottom of the question. So here it is.

Cotton Canvas
• Cotton canvas, often referred to as “cotton duck”, came into use in the early 20th century

• Cotton duck is different from over cotton fabric based on the way it’s weaved, plain weave. This type of weave allows the cotton to stretch more fully and even allowing for the canvas to be properly stretched.
• A strong natural fiber
• Cotton duck canvas is economical
• More popular of a support for oil and acrylic painting
• Longevity is similar to linen, but is more flexible
• Cotton is considered too flexible to be used for very large paintings

Linen Canvas
• Early canvas was made of linen, a sturdy brownish fabric of considerable strength
• LInen with an oil primer is considered the classical standard for oil paintings
• Linen is a vegetable fiber from the woody stem of the flax (linum) plant
• Linen fibers are very strong and lustrous
• Linen is difficult to prime and stretch properly
• Smoothest and stiffest painting surface
• Proven longevity and archival ability
• Can be a bit pricey
• Smooth

Conclusion
Both of these fabrics have their pros and cons. It’s up to you to figure out which material works best for your work.