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Introduction
The concept for a fabric camper shell dates back to the 1960s and was first implemented in the United States. This development was the result of an increasing demand from outdoor enthusiasts who wanted to experience more from their camping trips without all the hassle that came with owning and dragging around a heavy trailer or RV. With the fabric camper shell, these adventurers could now have lightweight, flexible coverage that was easy to install and use.
Mostly constructed with canvas materials such as cotton, nylon, polar fleece, and vinyl coatings, fabric camper shells provide shade and cover from sun, rain and wind. They come with free-standing or support poles that allow them to be adjusted at different heights depending on the weather conditions. Some designs are even engineered with pockets for gear storage or provide additional space to sleep in.
Pros of a Fabric Camper Shell
A fabric camper shell offers many advantages for campers, hikers and backpackers. For starters, fabric camper shells are lightweight and portable compared to traditional hardshell camping trailers and RVs. They can be easily packed up and transported in the back of a truck or SUV, making them perfect for taking on long road trips or down winding trails. Additionally, fabric camper shells provide superior weatherproofing due to their double-seamed stitching and tear-resistant material, which keeps out rain and other elements far better than typical tent materials.
Fabric camper shells are also incredibly customizable and come with an array of features such as built-in windows, screened vents, interior LED lighting, wall pockets, overhead storage compartments and multiples types of insulation. This means that you can tailor your camping experience to perfectly suit your needs while still maintaining the safety and security of a tent structure. Moreover, they come in a variety of colors so you can match your camper’s style to yours unique taste. Finally, most fabric camper shells have the added advantage of having removable poles that make set up easy and efficient – regardless if you’re in a campsite or just off the side of the road!
How to Choose the Right Fabric Camper Shell
Where to Find Fabric Camper Shells:
Fabric camper shells can be found at many different places, including at camping and outdoor stores, online retailers (such as Amazon and Ebay), and custom fabricators. It is important to compare different types of shells to make sure you are getting the best fit and quality.
Types of Material:
The two most common materials used for fabirc camper shells are heavy-duty nylon and waterproof canvas. Nylon is more durable and resistant to tearing, making it a great material for camping in tough conditions. Waterproof canvas is also lightweight and breathable, making it better suited for milder temperatures. However, both materials will require periodic maintenance to ensure their water-resistance remains strong over time.
Overall Lifestyle:
When selecting a fabric camper shell, consider how much time you spend outdoors and which activities you’ll be engaging in while camping. If you need both lightweight material that can hold up in harsh climates and an option that can withstand long periods of exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures, then nylon may be the best choice for your needs. Conversely, those who only camp occasionally or in mild weather would likely benefit from a lighter weight breathable canvas shell that is easier to maintain over time.
Fabric Camper Shell Maintenance
Waterproofing: In order to extend the life of your fabric camper shell, it’s important to waterproof it regularly. You can waterproof the fabric with a special spray or wax-based soap, which can usually be found at most camping and auto stores. Simply spray or apply the solution as per the instructions on the packaging, and allow it to dry before use. Make sure you follow any pre or post-treatment instructions that may come along with the product.
Storage: Once your fabric camper shell is waterproofed, you’ll need to store it properly in order to keep it looking like new for longer. Keep your camper stored away from direct sunlight, in a relatively cool and dry indoor space when not in use. This will prevent fading of colour or peeling of material caused by UV radiation andsun exposure from damaging the fabrics surface. Before you store it away for extended periods of time, make sure your camper shell is completely dry; this may require some light air drying after cleaning/waterproofing. Finally as an extra safety measure make sure all zippers are closed before putting away your camper in storage!
DIY Fabric Camper Shell
Step 1: At a minimum, gather the following materials:
• A canvas tarp or drop cloth
• Rolled foam for insulation
• Duct tape
• Fabric glue and/or Velcro strips
• Wooden or metal dowels or rods
• A length of rope
Step 2: To create your own DIY fabric camper shell, you will need to measure the back end of your truck bed by width, length, and height. Create your canvas base by adding an additional 2-3 inches to each measurement. The extra space will provide room for seams and hems. Cut the canvas shell using the measurements you have taken.
Step 3: On each corner of the shell, stitch in ropes that can be used to secure it to the truck bed with optional ties. Ensure that these are tightly connected by double stitching them for extra strength and security.
Step 4: Prepare the edges of your fabric coming in contact with the truck bed frame by cuffing one inch from each edge and folding it under along both sides and joining at every corner. This step will create not only a more finished look but also provide protection from any potential scratches on the truck frame when installing or removing your camper shell.
Step 5: Place rolled foam inside your fabric worksheet for insulation purposes against cold weather so it can serve as a makeshift camping tent when parked in areas not offering brick-and-mortar shelter solutions. Secure this layer with double stick duct tape before opening up your doorways or windows – if desired – which can be sealed either with Velcro strips, additional fabric glue work or zippers depending on personal preferences.
Step 6: For added stability, install wooden/metal dowels/rods along all four sides of the ceiling to hold up any additional weight that may be placed onto it later such as gear or suitable equipment containing items like sleeping bags or chairs etcetera while gathered around campfire settings during overnight trips away from home base domiciles amongst friends.
Optional Step 7 (if desired): Personalize your camper shell by adding curtains along window locations for extra privacy and aesthetics; preferably addin darker colors to help prevent sun damage which could truly set you into vacation mode atmosphere where ideas endless flow outwards surrounded by warmth found at midnight hour’s crispness under starry skylines filled with ambience radiating throughout campsites full of laughter sprinkled alongside edibles aromatic taste sensations liberating realities never before explored beneath wilderness’ embrace upon ancient trails surefooted towards campgrounds majestic scenes calming souls connecting lifes essence through meaningful conversations held palabra con palabra moments embracing journey’s ultimate destination…Inevitable freedom awaiting there within nature’s heart beat open invitations..
Other Uses for Fabric Camper Shells
Fabric camper shells can be used for a variety of purposes, such as providing a play area or outdoor shelter. The lightweight fabric, secure fastening, and water-resistant material make it perfect for parents looking to provide their children with extra play space outside. These shells are also suitable for providing shade from the sun or shelter from the rain. For example, fabric camper shells can be used to create a covered picnic area for your family on those days when you don’t feel like being inside. They can also help keep sports equipment securely stored in one place, as well as provide protection from windy conditions during outdoor events. Furthermore, fabric camper shells can also be set up at campgrounds and other places where you need some extra sleeping areas for guests. By simply unclipping one side of the shell, you have an extra bedroom that offers privacy without having to build any structures.
Conclusion
A fabric camper shell is a great investment for anyone who loves to camp, travel, or explore the outdoors. Fabric camper shells are lightweight and offer a more flexible form of camping compared to traditional hard-shell sleeping units. Not only are they easier to transport, but they provide better insulation against weather, reducing heat loss while you sleep. They can also be used to shelter your gear from the elements, or as an additional space for friends and family during group camping trips. Fabric camper shells come in a variety of sizes and colors so you can choose the perfect style for your lifestyle! To get the most out of your fabric camper shell, experiment with different uses and configurations to maximize the potential of this versatile product. Furthermore, research additional resources that can help you select quality materials and fabric camper shells that will last through numerous excursions into nature. Investing in a fabric camper shell is an easy way to expand your adventures while ensuring comfort wherever your travels take you!
