Shelter Fabric Manufacturer & Exporter: Canvas for Canopies & Field Shelters
Breathable, weather-resistant canvas for canopies, shade structures, relief and field shelters. Cotton, poly-cotton and polyester from 220 to 800 GSM, cut to custom lengths and widths and exported worldwide from Kanpur, India.
Canvas That Protects Against Wind, Rain, Sun and Storm
Shelters, like tents and tarpaulins, protect people and goods from wind, rain, sun and storms. From event canopies and shade structures to relief and field shelters, the fabric must stay breathable, rot-proof and anti-bacterial while resisting the weather day after day.
Cotton Canvas weaves shelter fabric with an impregnation coating and supplies it in a range of colours, cut to the lengths and widths your structure needs.
- Event & market canopies
- Shade structures & awnings
- Relief & emergency shelters
- Military & field shelters
Shelter Fabric at a Glance
The core construction details buyers specify for shelter canvas.
- Fabric base
- Cotton or Poly-Cotton
- Common weights
- 8 oz to 18 oz
- Weave pattern
- Plain & Ripstop
- Key property
- Custom colours, lengths & widths
What a Good Shelter Fabric Must Deliver
Shelter fabric needs to combine weather protection with the flexibility to be cut and finished to custom sizes. Our shelter canvas is built around these requirements.
Protection from wind, rain, sun & storm
Dense weaves with spray ratings of 85 to 95% and a 24-hour cone test with no drop keep shelters dry.
Breathable, rot-proof & anti-bacterial
Breathable canvas reduces condensation, and anti-fungal testing (ISO 11721-1, ISO 14119) confirms rot resistance.
Good light fastness
Grade 4 to 5 light fastness (ISO 105-B02) keeps shelter colours consistent over time.
Wide colour range
Dyed to order in a range of shades, from military olive and khaki to white and bright event colours.
Custom lengths & widths
Woven up to 200 cm wide and cut to the lengths your shelter panels require.
Strength under tension
Up to 2,946 N tensile and 368 N tear strength for tensioned roofs and guy points.
Shelter Fabric Technical Specifications
Common shelter canvas weights with approximate GSM, followed by lab-tested data for every available quality. Click View PDF on any row to open the full technical specification sheet in a new tab, where you can also download it.
| Weight (oz per sq. yd) | Approx. GSM | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 8 oz | 271 GSM | Lightweight shade canopies |
| 10 oz | 339 GSM | Event & market canopies |
| 12 oz | 407 GSM | General-purpose shelters |
| 15 oz | 509 GSM | Relief & field shelters |
| 18 oz | 610 GSM | Heavy-duty military shelters |
The commonly used qualities for shelters are 8, 10, 12, 15 and 18 oz, in plain and ripstop patterns.
Available GSM by Fibre Type
Test results from our technical specification sheets. All qualities are woven up to 200 cm wide, pass a 24-hour cone test with no drop, rate grade 3 to 4 for dry and wet rubbing fastness, and pass anti-fungal testing.
100% Cotton Shelter Canvas 275 to 800 GSM
Natural cotton canvas that breathes and swells when wet to shed water. A classic choice for breathable field and relief shelters.
| Quality | Fibre blend | Yarn | Tensile strength warp / weft (N) | Tear strength warp / weft (N) | Shrinkage warp / weft (%) | Water column (mm) | Spray rating (%) | Light fastness (grade) | Spec sheet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 275 GSM | 100% Cotton | Ringspun | 1,151 / 1,010 | 51 / 37 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 410 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 300 GSM | 100% Cotton | Ringspun | 1,288 / 1,080 | 57 / 35 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 610 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 350 GSM | 100% Cotton | Ringspun | 1,202 / 1,090 | 73 / 50 | 0.75 / 0.50 | 250 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 400 GSM | 100% Cotton | Ringspun | 1,550 / 1,450 | 92 / 66 | 0.75 / 0.50 | 300 | 90 | 5 | View PDF |
| 480 GSM | 100% Cotton | Open-end | 934 / 996 | 67 / 61 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 250 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 490 GSM | 100% Cotton | Ringspun | 1,650 / 1,150 | 153 / 108 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 280 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 500 GSM | 100% Cotton | Ringspun | 2,121 / 1,552 | 160 / 109 | 1.50 / Nil | 300 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 540 GSM | 100% Cotton | Open-end | 1,699 / 882 | 118 / 74 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 250 | 85 | 5 | View PDF |
| 600 GSM | 100% Cotton | Open-end | 1,403 / 1,301 | 89 / 76 | 2.00 / 1.75 | 250 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 650 GSM | 100% Cotton | Open-end | 1,826 / 969 | 135 / 141 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 250 | 85 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 800 GSM | 100% Cotton | Open-end | 1,690 / 1,520 | 212 / 155 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 250 | 85 | 4-5 | View PDF |
Polyester Cotton Shelter Canvas 220 to 580 GSM
Blends from 30:70 to 65:35 combine cotton breathability with polyester strength, lower weight and faster drying. Ripstop qualities resist tear propagation. Well suited to canopies and portable shelters that need strength at a lower weight.
| Quality | Fibre blend | Yarn | Tensile strength warp / weft (N) | Tear strength warp / weft (N) | Shrinkage warp / weft (%) | Water column (mm) | Spray rating (%) | Light fastness (grade) | Spec sheet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220 GSM | 65:35 Poly-Cotton | Ringspun | 1,297 / 1,229 | 140 / 66 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 300 | 85 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 320 GSM Ripstop | 52:48 Poly-Cotton | Ringspun | 1,709 / 1,300 | 161 / 113 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 300 | 85 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 320 GSM | 65:35 Poly-Cotton | Ringspun | 2,202 / 1,705 | 264 / 166 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 300 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 350 GSM | 30:70 Poly-Cotton | Open-end | 956 / 820 | 64 / 43 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 230 | 85 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 410 GSM | 50:50 Poly-Cotton | Ringspun | 1,900 / 1,450 | 138 / 123 | 1.50 / 0.50 | 250 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 450 GSM | 50:50 Poly-Cotton | Ringspun | 2,146 / 1,650 | 155 / 95 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 280 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 480 GSM Ripstop | 50:50 Poly-Cotton | Ringspun | 2,350 / 1,700 | 198 / 165 | 1.50 / 0.50 | 400 | 95 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 510 GSM | 50:50 Poly-Cotton | Ringspun | 2,433 / 1,823 | 246 / 153 | 0.75 / 0.50 | 250 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 580 GSM Ripstop | 50:50 Poly-Cotton | Ringspun | 2,450 / 1,900 | 256 / 180 | 0.75 / 0.50 | 350 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
100% Polyester Shelter Canvas 250 to 410 GSM
The highest tensile and tear strength with minimal shrinkage, in filament (300D and 600D) and spun constructions. Ideal for shade structures and tensioned roofs.
| Quality | Fibre blend | Yarn | Tensile strength warp / weft (N) | Tear strength warp / weft (N) | Shrinkage warp / weft (%) | Water column (mm) | Spray rating (%) | Light fastness (grade) | Spec sheet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 250 GSM (300D) | 100% Polyester | Filament | 2,426 / 1,334 | 157 / 128 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 250 | 85 | 5 | View PDF |
| 310 GSM | 100% Polyester | Ringspun | 2,694 / 1,639 | 259 / 178 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 250 | 85 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 350 GSM (600D) | 100% Polyester | Filament | 2,702 / 1,708 | 277 / 219 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 250 | 85 | 5 | View PDF |
| 410 GSM (15P) | 100% Polyester | Ringspun | 2,386 / 1,704 | 368 / 278 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 250 | 90 | 4-5 | View PDF |
| 410 GSM | 100% Polyester | Ringspun | 2,946 / 2,181 | 278 / 225 | 1.00 / 0.50 | 250 | 85 | 4-5 | View PDF |
Values are typical laboratory results and may vary within normal manufacturing tolerances. Custom constructions can be developed to your specification.
Test Methods Used
Which Shelter Fabric Is Right for Your Structure?
Typical fabric choices by shelter type. Our team will confirm the best construction for your design, climate and deployment.
Event & Market Canopies
Bright, colourfast canvas that is light to transport and quick to pitch.
Poly-cotton 220 to 350 GSM
Shade Structures & Awnings
UV-stable fabric with high tensile strength for tensioned shade.
Polyester 250 to 410 GSM
Relief & Field Shelters
Breathable, rot-proof canvas for long deployment in all climates.
Cotton 350 to 500 GSM
Military & Heavy-Duty Shelters
Heavy constructions with flame-retardant and rot-proof finishes.
Cotton or poly-cotton 480 to 650 GSMRecommended Cotton Canvas Fabrics for Shelters
Our Cotton Canvas and Waxed Proof Canvas ranges are a strong starting point for shelter fabric, offering the weather resistance and durability shelters demand. For extra protection against rain and moisture, Water Repellent Fabrics are also a reliable choice.
Built for International Shelter Manufacturers
Custom constructions
GSM, blend, weave and width developed to match your shelter specification.
Finishes on request
Water-repellent, wax-proofed, PU/PVC coated, flame-retardant, UV-resistant and rot-proof.
Shade & weight consistency
Controlled dyeing and weaving tolerances for repeat and multi-container orders.
Documented quality
ISO-method test data and technical specification sheets for every quality.
Shelter Fabric: Frequently Asked Questions
What fabric is used for shelters and canopies?
Shelters and canopies are usually made from cotton, polyester-cotton or polyester canvas between 8 oz and 18 oz. Cotton breathes and suits field and relief shelters, poly-cotton adds strength at lower weight, and polyester offers the highest tensile strength and low shrinkage for tensioned shade structures.
What GSM is best for a relief or field shelter?
Relief and field shelters typically use 12 to 15 oz canvas, about 400 to 510 GSM, while heavy military shelters use 18 oz and above. Cotton Canvas supplies shelter fabric from 220 GSM up to 800 GSM.
Is shelter canvas waterproof?
Our shelter qualities pass a 24-hour cone test with no water drop and record spray ratings of 85 to 95%. Water-repellent, wax-proofed and PU or PVC coated finishes are available for higher water resistance.
Can shelter fabric be supplied in custom colours and sizes?
Yes. Shelter fabric is woven up to 200 cm wide, dyed in a range of colours and cut to custom lengths and widths to suit your panels.
Is flame-retardant shelter fabric available?
Yes. Flame-retardant, UV-resistant, rot-proof and anti-fungal finishes can be applied for military, relief and public-use shelters.
How can I get the technical specification sheet?
Use the “View PDF” link next to any quality in the tables above to open or download its technical specification sheet, or contact info@cottoncanvas.com for custom constructions.
Do you export shelter fabric?
Yes. Cotton Canvas manufactures in Kanpur, India, and has supplied canvas since 1983. Shelter fabric is exported worldwide to shelter makers, event companies and project buyers.
Ready to Specify Canvas for Your Shelters?
Share your shelter type, target GSM, colour, finish and quantity. We will recommend the right construction and send technical data sheets and a quotation.