Materials Guide

Proudly made in Cape Town • Custom canvas • Made to measure
Materials Guide

Different jobs ask different things of a material.

Canvasland works across several materials. The starting point is not simply colour or price, but what the finished product needs to do.

Fabric and stitching detail
Choose by use, not by name

The best material is the one that suits the job.

Material choice depends on where the product will be used, what it needs to withstand, how often it moves, how it needs to be cleaned and the type of finish required.

Canvas

A versatile woven material used across covers, bags and many made to measure applications. Useful where flexibility, strength and a traditional fabric finish are important.

PVC

Often useful where water resistance, robust use and easier wipe cleaning are priorities. Common in outdoor, industrial, transport and mat applications.

Ripstop

A lighter material designed to resist tearing. Useful for selected bags, covers and outdoor applications where weight and strength both matter.

Shade cloth

Useful when shade, airflow or screening are part of the brief rather than complete enclosure.

Outdoor fabrics

Suitable for cushions and living spaces where appearance, comfort and outdoor suitability need to work together.

Existing materials

For repairs, the team may need to assess the existing fabric, wear, stitching and fittings before recommending the best approach.

Questions to consider

What does the material need to cope with?

  • Sun and outdoor exposure
  • Rain or moisture
  • Repeated folding or movement
  • Heavy handling or abrasion
  • Easy cleaning
  • Weight and portability
  • Appearance in a home or customer facing space

Not sure what to choose?

That is normal. Customers do not need to arrive knowing the difference between every material.

Explain what the product needs to do and where it will live. Canvasland can use that information to recommend a suitable direction.