Just wrapped up Boat Canvas University two days ago and wanted to share what a terrific week it was! John’s expertise was obvious as was his ability to convey that knowledge and passion in clear, interesting, and thorough manner. His methods work as I would be happy to have every single student’s Bimini, front and side curtains installed on my boat! Not only was the class great, but I observed, first hand, how accessible and helpful he is to former students. Many thanks for a great experience and I look forward to a long lasting friendship!

As a subscriber, I have been able to call on John Cavender at Boat Canvas University for technical questions from “best size for my next cutting table”, to, “which way should the Kedder welt lay, on the radio arch of a SeaRay when I pattern the aft enclosure” [If you have a hard time envisioning the elements of that question, then you might gather how valuable a thoughtful and definitive answer was!] I have 40 years as a self-employeed professional upholsterer with 2 years on boat enclosures. I wish I had met John 2 decades ago! I am looking forward to a workshop at Boat Canvas University. As a second generation boat canvas professional, John brings a wealth of knowledge to his enterprise… AND SHARES IT generously!

I really learned alot from the videos and they really increased my speed!

I’m a lifetime Boater and I took the course about a year and a half ago. Don’t think about it just sign up and take the course, you won’t regret it. John’s knowledge, expertise, professionalism, and teaching skills are great. The small classes makes a great teaching and learning environment. The end result is something you can take and start or improve your own business. Well worth the time and money.

If I had any sort of question, it was answered immediately! I liked that. The courses were easy to understand and follow…

I am a long time subscriber to the website and was a student of their first on-site training class on canvas enclosures. John and his team have always been knowledgeable and helpful, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the continent they have provided. Over the years, I have received many times over the amount of money that I’ve spent with Boat Canvas University. I would highly recommend this organization to anyone wanting to learn more about boats canvas as a hobby or profession.

We own a 52 foot Hatteras which needed new canvas and strataglass. Not too many people provide this service and the estimate was about $20,000! We decided to do it ourselves. We bought the courses from Boat Canvas University, a industrial strength sewing machine and all the materials and went to work. The total cost to do it ourselves was about $7,000. We couldn’t have done it without BCU! The courses are easy to follow. We had some questions so we called John. We were very surprised that he answered the phone and was happy to answer all our questions, he was extremely helpful. We have received a lot of compliments on our canvas. Many people have asked us to do it for them but we are retired and don’t want to start a new business.

On several occasions I have utilized your videos to help me learn a new trade of business. your detailing is the best in my learning experience. I look forward to utilizing your on line training in my future as I grow my business. thank you for your help. Mrs. T’s Canvas & Upholstery Shop, Inc. Painted Post, NY

I discovered John on you tube years ago, before the university started. I am a skilled problem solver and seamstress, so I love his fast paced, focused on the key issues approach to teaching. He is 2nd generation in this trade, where apprenticeship is paramount to learning. With his online courses, you get that. I consider John my mentor, and when I am on a job, I rewatch his courses and I know I am watching my highly experienced teacher approach a similar project. I am over 3000 miles away so I haven’t taken his workshop, but I feel like he knows me, because when I am stumped with a design, I have called him, and he knows I am part of his student members, and gives me the applicable advice & tips he can for my issue. What is the value of a resource with his credentials worth to you? In my opinion, knowing he is there for me is invaluable. I don’t think I could have my business if it weren’t for John’s videos and being available with his expert knowledge. Trust me, if you want to start a canvas shop, this membership is as important as your sewing machine, your shop and your reputation. I encourage you to learn the right methods, learn from the best!