Vintage Caravan Awning - Seeking business recommendations

[stooy]

Hi Everyone,

I am hoping someone can recommend a canvas business who can help me by making an awning for my Don for a fair price.

I am seeking a simple flat canvas awning say 4m x 3m, with no sides or frills and so far I have been quote $1000 and $700, neither included poles or sail track.

I am in Melbourne but happy to order from another state.

I look forward to your recommendations.

Many Thanks

Stewart

[Don Ricardo]

Hi Stooy,

We used Apex Australian Canvas in Tottenham for a new awning for our Don three or four years ago and are very happy with it: www.apexaustraliancanvas.com.au/

Apex was recommended to us by Yve, another Don owner and forum member. Here's the result:

In this photo we've used the roof struts from our full annexe and double guys because the wind squalls in this location can be very strong.  (People with modern awnings have to roll them in during some storms, but we don't.  )  However, in a less windy location the awning is just fine without the roof struts and regular guy ropes.

The tricky thing about getting an awning for caravans the shape of our Dons is that the edge attached to the van has to be curved.  A lot of awning makers don't get it and just try and make it straight, so you do need to carefully explain what is required.  (A previous canvas firm made us a rectangle as an awning, but it just doesn't work and you end up with loose canvas on the sides that flaps - and looks terrible!)

We actually took along our existing full annexe to Apex so that they could use the roof shape as a pattern.  We'd be happy to lend you our awning to show them if you like.

I can't remember whether you have existing turn buttons or track on your Don for an annexe or awning??

Don Ricardo

[yve]

Hi Stooey. Yes we had an awning for our Don made by Mark at Apex Canvas. We were very happy with it. We had the original turn buckles on the roof that the awning fitted onto. We have had a second awning made by for our Franklin which has a sail track. Great job on that one too.

[stooy]

Thanks Don Ricardo and Yve! Greatly appreciated.

[stooy]

Feb 11, 2022 8:25:59 GMT 10 yve said:

Hi Stooey. Yes we had an awning for our Don made by Mark at Apex Canvas. We were very happy with it. We had the original turn buckles on the roof that the awning fitted onto. We have had a second awning made by for our Franklin which has a sail track. Great job on that one too.

Thanks Don Ricardo,

I will have a chat to them and thanks for the kind offer, if they need the pattern I would absolutely love the loan!

We have a very outdated track system from an old annex, but I think we will need to switch over the the cleats for it are no longer available as best as I can tell.

Thanks Again

Stewart