Custom Shade Cloth: Enjoy Your Garden with Professional Sun Protection

A custom shade cloth is the smartest way to make your garden, patio or outdoor space a comfortable place, even on the hottest days. No unwieldy parasol that blows over, no standard size that just doesn't fit. At Zeilmakerij De Vries Maritiem we make fully customized shade cloths in any shape, color and size you want. Whether it is a triangular shade cloth over your lounge set, a rectangular shade cloth over the terrace or a harmonica shade cloth in your pergola: we deliver craftsmanship that lasts for years.

Why a Custom Shadow Cloth?

A standard shade cloth from the hardware store rarely fits perfectly. The dimensions are wrong, the fabric hangs slack or does not provide enough shade where you need it. With a custom made shading fabric you avoid these compromises. The fabric is made exactly to the dimensions of your garden or terrace, adjusted to the attachment points and the direction of the sun.

In addition, a custom shade cloth offers benefits you won't find with a standard product:

  • Perfect fit: the fabric fits seamlessly to your outdoor space without excess material or gaps.
  • Choice of material: permeable for optimal air circulation, or waterproof for sun and rain protection.
  • UV-resistant: our canvases block up to 97% of harmful UV rays, keeping you safe in the shade.
  • Durable and colorfast: professional materials that don't fade, don't tear and last season after season.
  • Free color choice: from classic white and sand to striking anthracite or a color to match your facade.
  • No umbrella base taking up space: a shade cloth hangs over your head and keeps the floor clear.

Shade Cloth Shapes: Triangle, Rectangle or Square

The shape of your shade cloth determines where the shade falls and how the cloth looks in your garden. We make shade cloths in any shape you want:

Shade cloth triangle

A triangle shade cloth is the most popular choice for gardens and patios. It offers a playful, modern look and is easy to hang between three attachment points, such as a wall, a pole and a tree. Its shape allows you to direct exactly where the shade falls.

Shade cloth rectangle

A rectangular shade cloth provides maximum coverage over a larger area. Ideal over a dining table, lounge set or children's play area. With four attachment points, the fabric hangs tight and stable.

Shade cloth square

A square shade cloth is perfect for more compact spaces or if you want a symmetrical image. It provides an even shade over the entire area.

Trapezoid or irregular shapes

Does your garden have an unusual layout? We also make shade cloths in trapezoid shapes, pentagons or other irregular shapes. Because we work completely custom, no shape is too crazy.

Solar blanket

Waterproof or Permeable?

An important choice when ordering a custom shade cloth is the type of cloth. Both variants have their advantages:

Permeable shade cloth

A permeable shade cloth allows air and a light shower to pass through, preventing heat build-up under the cloth. This type is ideal if you are primarily looking for protection from the sun and want the fabric to hang all season. The fabric is lighter, putting less stress on the attachment points.

Waterproof shade cloth

A waterproof shade cloth offers protection from both sun and rain. This allows you to continue using your patio even during summer showers. Please note: a waterproof fabric must be hung at an angle (at least 25 degrees) so that rainwater can run off. We will be happy to advise you on the correct angle and fixing.

Harmonica Shade Cloth and Pergola Solutions

Want to decide when to sit in the sun or shade? Then a harmonica shade cloth is the solution. This sliding fabric slides over tensioned steel cables and is ideal for use in a pergola or between two walls. You slide the fabric open for shade and closed when you want to feel the sun.

A pergola with shade cloth is a popular combination that transforms your outdoor space into a full-fledged outdoor room. We custom make harmonica shade cloths to fit the exact dimensions of your pergola, including the hanging and guide rail system.

Materials and Quality

At Zeilmakerij De Vries Maritiem, we work exclusively with professional materials that can withstand intensive outdoor use:

  • Reinforced seams and corner rings: for maximum tensile strength and long life.
  • Sattler, Sauleda and Sunbrella cloths: UV-resistant, mildew-resistant and colorfast.
  • Weatherermax for waterproof applications: reliably water resistant yet breathable.
  • HDPE mesh for water-permeable cloths: light, strong and with excellent UV blocking.
  • Stainless steel 316 fasteners: stainless and resistant to all weather conditions.

Mounting and Assembly

A shade cloth is only as good as its fastening. We advise on the right attachment points and supply all necessary materials with them, such as wall plates, poles, tensioners and carabiners. Don't have suitable attachment points? Then we can install stainless steel or wooden poles at the desired location.

We also provide full installation upon request, so you can be sure that the fabric hangs tight, secure and at the correct angle of inclination.

How Does It Work?

  1. Please contact us and describe your situation. Photos of the location are always welcome.
  2. We advise on shape, material, color and mounting.
  3. We measure or you provide the measurements (distance from attachment point to attachment point).
  4. Custom production of the shade cloth in our own workshop.
  5. Delivery and on-site assembly if necessary.

Shade Cloth for Private and Hospitality

Our shade cloths are suitable for private gardens as well as catering terraces, business premises, schools and public areas. For the hospitality industry we make larger canvases with extra reinforcements and if desired with company logo or printing. We have experience with special, large and specific projects and like to think along with you about the best solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a custom shade cloth cost?

The price depends on the dimensions, the material (permeable or waterproof), the shape and any additional options such as printing or mounting. Request a free quote for a customized price indication.

How long does a shade cloth last?

With proper maintenance and seasonal use (storage in winter), a quality shade cloth will last an average of 8 to 15 years, depending on the material and exposure.

Can I leave a shade cloth hanging all year?

Water-permeable canvases can generally stay outside longer. Waterproof cloths we recommend storing inside during storms or in the winter months. This extends the life span considerably.

Which is better: a shade cloth or an umbrella?

A shade cloth offers more shade area, does not take up floor space, does not blow over and is more durable. A parasol is more flexible in positioning. For a permanent spot in the garden or on the patio, a shade cloth is almost always the better choice.

Can I hang a waterproof shade cloth horizontally?

We do not recommend this. A waterproof canvas should hang at an angle (at least 25 degrees) to allow rainwater to run off. Hanging horizontally creates puddles that stress and damage the fabric.

Do you also supply the poles and mounting?

Yes, we supply all necessary fasteners in stainless steel quality. On request, we also install wooden or stainless steel posts and provide complete assembly.

What shapes can I order a shade cloth in?

Triangle, rectangle, square, trapezoid and irregular shapes. We make the canvas to the exact dimensions of your attachment points.

Order Custom Shade Cloth? Request a quote now

Want a custom shade cloth for your garden, patio or business? Contact Zeilmakerij De Vries Maritiem. We are happy to advise you on the best solution and provide a shade cloth that fits exactly, from design to assembly.