Boat Canvas University

Boat Canvas University Boat Canvas University is dedicated to training both business and everyday people how to become a bo John’s love of his craft is undeniable.

John Cavender is a 25-year veteran of the Marine Canvas Fabrication industry, is sought-after for his expertise and has been training fabricators across the country for many years. In 1990, after four years of military service, John began building mobile workshops using large panel vans with built-in tools and sewing tables. This enabled him to meet the high demand for custom canvas in a wide vari

ety of applications and locations. These mobile workshops grossed millions of dollars annually and are still in operation today. In 1998, John was contracted to manufacture eradicable awnings. This led him to focus in metal fabrication for Marriott, making awnings for public schools in Florida as well as major grocery chains. He quickly earned a reputation for his metal fabrication work. This led to manufacturing custom wake board towers for Moomba Ski Boats. It was during this period that he began working with semi-hard enclosures and was ultimately contracted by Peter Pan Industries to build complete enclosures for amphibious attraction vehicles. In 2003, John’s “OEM” (original equipment manufacturing) branch of the business took off. He was responsible for the patterning and duplication of patterns to meet the high demand of his clientele, which included Angler Bass Boats, Blazer Bass and Bay Boats, Baha Cruisers and Boston Whaler among many others. He also developed enclosures for golf cart manufacturers like Yamaha, Club Car, EZ Go and Par Car and various custom golf cart manufacturers. John also manufactured the first generation of Segway Vehicle storage bags. By 2012 John began filming “tricks of the trade” videos and invented a specialty tool to make a very complex patterning and scribing process possible with a simple, easy-to-use system. He is 100% committed to sharing his vast knowledge and years of experience in a wide variety of applications. His mission with Boat Canvas University is to provide others who share his passion with the step-by-step instruction to allow them, too, to become successful fabricators.

09/12/2024
02/09/2024
07/16/2023
05/21/2023

The most valuable aspect of Boat Canvas University is the comprehensive education and hands-on training it provides. Students gain in-depth knowledge of boat canvas fabrication techniques, industry best practices, and business strategies. They learn from the expertise of Master Instructor John Cavender, who has over 30 years of experience in the field. The program covers a wide range of topics, including pattern making, sewing techniques, enclosure construction, and marketing strategies. By completing the program, students gain the skills and confidence to start their own successful boat canvas fabrication business or advance their career in the industry. The value lies in the practical skills, industry insights, and networking opportunities that can significantly enhance their prospects and earning potential in the marine canvas field.

05/21/2023

Discover the world of boat canvas fabrication with Boat Canvas University! Led by Master Instructor John Cavender, our comprehensive training program equips you with the knowledge and skills to excel in the marine canvas industry. Join our community of students who have turned their passion for boat canvas into a successful profession. Enroll today and chart your course towards a fulfilling career!

04/13/2023

U-Zip day

03/11/2023

Consew 2206. auto back tack auto thread cutter is the best feature of these new machines. This literally makes me like sewing again. 

02/07/2023

Warm satin polyurethane, first coat on. I will show the finished product tomorrow.

Last day. Of the build. Tables are done and machines going in !!
02/07/2023

Last day. Of the build. Tables are done and machines going in !!

02/03/2023

Day 1. First frame done

Day 1our new location in Jacksonville “Atlantic Beach”Table layout is complete!!  Materials are ordered. I’ll post all t...
02/03/2023

Day 1
our new location in Jacksonville “Atlantic Beach”
Table layout is complete!! Materials are ordered.
I’ll post all the steps of the build. This is an exciting time for BCU. Please comment I’ll answer all questions regarding the build.

Boat canvas is necessary to protect HVAC systems from weather damage, ensure that your vessel doesn't rot out from under...
12/14/2022

Boat canvas is necessary to protect HVAC systems from weather damage, ensure that your vessel doesn't rot out from underneath you, and ensure ongoing use of trailers, dinghies, and other floating vehicles.

Offering an amazing value for reasonable prices; join today and get started.
(443) 822-0738
boatcanvasuniversity.com

A detailed guide removes the mystery of the at-top mooring cover, showing you how to attach the fabric to booms, knees, ...
12/09/2022

A detailed guide removes the mystery of the at-top mooring cover, showing you how to attach the fabric to booms, knees, and stanchions.

Offering an amazing value for reasonable prices; join today and get started.
(443) 822-0738
boatcanvasuniversity.com

12/07/2022

We have a new course up on our video library. 30' sportsman Gull wing Enclosure.
Anyone interested in signing up for the courses let me know..

If you love the idea of working in the boat canvas industry, Boat Canvas University can help you get started. Our course...
12/07/2022

If you love the idea of working in the boat canvas industry, Boat Canvas University can help you get started. Our course covers everything from basic design and drawing skills to information on how to plan your own business.

Offering an amazing value for reasonable prices; join today and get started.
(443) 822-0738
boatcanvasuniversity.com

If you're looking for a way to save on your next boat canvas job and make it look great, then you need Boat Canvas Unive...
11/25/2022

If you're looking for a way to save on your next boat canvas job and make it look great, then you need Boat Canvas University. With our detailed, user-friendly videos and training guides, YOU can learn how to build a top-quality boat enclosure that fits perfectly and will last you years.

Offering an amazing value for reasonable prices; join today and get started.
(443) 822-0738
boatcanvasuniversity.com

We want to help you learn more about the benefits of an Acrylic Dodger and Bimini. If you are interested in learning how...
11/23/2022

We want to help you learn more about the benefits of an Acrylic Dodger and Bimini. If you are interested in learning how to install a new canvas dodger on your boat, you've come to the right place! We offer all the technical advice you will need on how to do it yourself and a complete list of tools that can be used.

Offering an amazing value for reasonable prices; join today and get started.
(443) 822-0738
boatcanvasuniversity.com

Need to protect your boat? We have detailed, user-friendly videos to help you learn more about building a canvas cover.O...
11/18/2022

Need to protect your boat? We have detailed, user-friendly videos to help you learn more about building a canvas cover.

Offering an amazing value for reasonable prices; join today and get started.
(443) 822-0738
boatcanvasuniversity.com

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209 Hunters Ridge Road
Centreville, MD
21617

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