One of the most common uses of tarps and canvas is to protect furniture, carpets and other items while painting inside or outside. While canvas tarps are more expensive than disposable plastic tarps, they can be used over and over again. Canvas tarps are heavy and will stay in place without a lot of complicated taping and securing, and fit well over curved surfaces. They are usually less slippery than disposable plastic tarps, so they are also safer as there is less chance of injury due to falls.