Custom canvas is worth considering when standard gear doesn’t suit the size, fit, features or job you have in mind. Before ordering, think about how the item will be used, where it needs to fit and any features you need.
Depending on the job, measurements, photos or a simple sketch may help explain what you’re after. If an off-the-shelf product already does the job, there may be no need to go custom.
Key Takeaways:
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Custom canvas is useful for specific sizes, spaces, setups and uses that standard gear doesn’t cover.
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Think through the fit, intended use and important features before speaking to a canvas maker.
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Going custom isn’t always necessary. If an existing product already does the job, it may be the simpler option.
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Sometimes the canvas gear you need isn’t something you can simply pick off the shelf. It might be for a 4WD setup, camping gear, storage, a cover or something more specific to the way you use your gear.
Before getting something made, it helps to have a clear idea of what you need it to do, where you’ll use it and any features that matter to you.
When Is Custom Canvas Worth Considering?
Custom canvas is worth considering when an off-the-shelf product doesn’t quite suit the job. This could be because you need:
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A particular size or shape
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Something made to fit a specific space or setup
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Storage for a particular piece of gear
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Different features or a different layout
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A cover made for a specific item
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Something for an unusual or specialised use
Not everything needs to be custom made. If an existing product already does the job, an off-the-shelf option may be all you need. Custom canvas is more useful when you have a particular requirement that standard gear doesn’t meet.
What Can Be Made From Custom Canvas?
Custom canvas can be used for all sorts of jobs, particularly when something needs to fit a certain space, protect particular gear or make storage easier.
Examples include:
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Storage bags made for particular gear or equipment
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Covers for specific items or setups
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4WD storage and organisers
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Fishing rod holders
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Bags and covers for camping chairs, stretchers and other outdoor gear
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Canvas canopies and other vehicle applications
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Other purpose-built canvas items for specific jobs or setups
Custom canvas isn’t limited to camping or 4WD gear either. If canvas suits the job, it can be made for a wide range of practical uses where a standard product doesn’t quite work.
What Should You Know Before Ordering Custom Canvas?
Before getting something custom made, it helps to think through a few basics. You don’t need to have every detail worked out, but having a clear idea of what you need will make it easier to explain what you’re after.
Think About How You’ll Use It
Start with what you need the item to do and where you’ll use it. A bag for storing gear in the back of a 4WD may have different requirements from a cover that will spend most of its time outside. How and where it will be used helps shape what you actually need.
Work Out the Size and Fit
Think about the space the item needs to fit and what needs to go inside, underneath or around it. Having some basic measurements will give a canvas maker a much clearer idea of what you’re after.
Consider the Features You Need
Pockets, handles, straps, openings and other features can make a big difference to how useful the finished item is. Photos or even a simple sketch can also help explain what you have in mind.
You don’t need to arrive with a finished design. What’s important is being able to explain what you’re trying to achieve and any particular requirements the item needs to meet.
Custom vs. Off-the-Shelf Canvas: Which Makes More Sense?
If there’s already a canvas product that does what you need, buying off the shelf is often the simplest option. Custom canvas is more useful when you need something that a standard product can’t provide.
| Off-the-Shelf Canvas | Custom Canvas |
|---|---|
| Made in standard sizes | Can be made to suit a particular size or space |
| Comes with set features | Can include the features you need |
| Works well for common uses | Better suited to unusual or specific uses |
| Ready to buy | Needs some planning before it can be made |
Price isn’t the only thing worth comparing. Some lower-cost, mass-produced canvas products may use lighter materials or construction designed to meet a lower price point.
With custom-made gear, there is more opportunity to consider the materials, construction and details needed for the way the product will actually be used. For gear that will see regular use in Australian conditions, those differences can matter over time.
There’s no need to have something custom made just for the sake of it. If a standard product works, it works. Custom canvas becomes worthwhile when you need a particular fit, setup or feature that you can’t find off the shelf.
Looking for Custom Canvas in Australia?
Custom canvas works best when it solves a real problem. Maybe something needs to fit a certain space, carry particular gear or work in a way that a standard product doesn’t. That’s the reason to go custom in the first place.
Summit Outfitters makes custom canvas gear in Mansfield, Victoria. We’ve made storage bags, covers, 4WD organisers, fishing rod holders and other purpose-built canvas gear.
If you have something in mind, get in touch with as many details as possible and tell us what you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can custom canvas gear be repaired?
Yes, many canvas products can be repaired if the main item is still in good condition. Depending on the damage, repairs can include replacing zips, reinforcing stitching or repairing worn areas. Summit Outfitters backs its own canvas gear with a lifetime repair guarantee. If it fails due to workmanship or materials, Summit will repair it with no labour charge.
Can custom canvas be made for businesses?
Yes. Custom canvas can include one-off products as well as manufacturing for businesses that need canvas products made for their own brand or application. Summit Outfitters manufactures canvas bags for Sydney skateboard brand Pass~Port.
Is custom canvas only for camping gear?
No. Canvas is used for camping and 4WD gear, but it can also suit storage, vehicle applications, covers and other practical uses. Whether canvas is suitable depends on what the item needs to do and the conditions it will be used in.
Do I need to be in Mansfield to order custom canvas?
Summit Outfitters is based in Mansfield, Victoria, and its website ships products Australia-wide. If you’re outside the area, contact Summit to confirm what is possible for your particular custom job.
Can custom canvas be made in small quantities?
Yes. Custom canvas work can include a single one-off item as well as repeat production for larger quantities. Summit Outfitters has experience with both individual custom jobs and repeat commercial manufacturing.