Boat Canvas University
Program Options

Boat Canvas University is THE ONLY marine canvas fabrication training program in the country. 

Taught by Master Instructor, John Cavender, with 30+ years experience building and owning his own fabrication company. 

You’re guaranteed to learn everything you’ll need to know to start earning over 100k+ a year in your own business.

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Course Options


  • The Complete Program – $5,500

  • In-Person Workshop – $2,500

  • Video Tutorial Courses – $3,000

Student Testimonials

  • Really enjoyed attending his week along class. very nice work shop and John is great person , along with his father I learned a lot from his class. Started watching his videos on his old web site, Then when he changed to his new web site, I could never get back in to finish watching them. However the ones I have watched made it easy to keep up with what I learned in his class. plus it great as a refresher because I don’t do canvass every day.

    thumb J R DeBaun
    November 4, 2021
  • John Cavender is the best fabricator I’ve had the experience to meet and learn from. His canvas course gave me the tools I needed to take my canvas business to the next level. I can now build a bimini that fits like a glove in less than a day. He covers the basics and finer points of enclosure fabrication thoroughly. And his entire video series which are included with the course are available as refreshers when needed. And if you have any questions John is almost always available to help you with your problem.

    thumb Joe Frattinger
    November 4, 2021
  • I really learned alot from the videos and they really increased my speed!

    thumb tangi bohlmann
    November 4, 2021
  • John is a thorough, patient, and fantastic teacher! And the guy has a great down to earth sense of humor! I started with his video package earlier this year and learned so much that I wasn’t sure the in person workshop was necessary. I was wrong! I’m glad I didn’t stop at the videos. Being in person and hands on with John is invaluable. He takes his time answering questions and guides you in a way that you get to see your mistakes and understand how to avoid them in the future. Thanks John!

    thumb T.J. Pera
    October 4, 2022
  • John is by far the best resource for people starting out in this business. He is responsive to emails, takes calls anytime and stops what he’s doing to help his students. If you are looking for marine canvas training, look no further. John is the man. His videos go at just the right pace! If you’ve watched others they can progress painfully slow. John is quick and informative without boring you to death. I highly recommend Boat Canvas University for your training. I will be signing up for the workshop training soon!

    thumb Ken Wallace
    November 4, 2021
  • If I had any sort of question, it was answered immediately! I liked that. The courses were easy to understand and follow…

    thumb Karen Krug
    November 4, 2021
  • 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!

    thumb Jennifer Becker
    November 4, 2021
  • 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

    thumb Tina Butters-Hargrave
    November 4, 2021
  • John has a great process of patterning, and constructing an enclosure! This class gave me the skills and confidence to start my own business! He is responsive to emails and texts, and his video content is great. If you’re interested in starting out in your own business this is a must! Thanks John

    thumb Bob Quale
    November 4, 2021
  • 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!

    thumb Chris Conrad
    October 4, 2022

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