Canvas Snap & Button Kits

Canvas Snap Kits and Canvas Button Kits - Resources & Information

Whether your boat is on the water, trailering, or in storage, securing your canvas is crucial for keeping your boat protected and comfortable for years to come. To make attaching and removing your canvas a cinch, Canvas Snap & Button Kits have everything you need to repair and install canvas on your entire boat.

PartsVu offers a complete selection of Canvas Snap & Button Kits from OEM manufacturers and trusted aftermarket suppliers. Whether you need canvas snap tools, canvas snap fastener pliers, an all-in-one canvas snap kit, and other marine canvas supplies, PartsVu has what you need to get the job done. 

Need help servicing your boat and outboard engine? PartsVu regularly publishes helpful how-to guides and other valuable maintenance information to help boaters properly service their boats and engines. Browse our outboard maintenance blog for a wide range of relevant topics and see the FAQ section below, covering everything you need to know about maintaining your boat in confidence.

Canvas Snap & Button Kits FAQ

How do I use canvas fasteners on boats?

Canvas fasteners, also known as boat snaps or marine snaps, are used to securely attach canvas or other types of fabric to a boat. To use canvas fasteners, first determine the placement of the snaps on the fabric and on the boat. Mark the placement on both the fabric and the boat, then use a punch or awl to create holes for the snaps at the marked locations. Next, insert the male part of the snap into the hole on the boat, then press the female part of the snap onto the male part to secure it in place. Repeat this process for each of the snaps. Once all of the snaps are in place, attach the fabric to the boat by pressing the male part of the snaps onto the female part of the snaps. This will create a secure attachment between the fabric and the boat.

What are canvas fasteners used for?

Canvas fasteners are a type of fastener that is specifically designed to hold canvas material together. Marine canvas fasteners are typically made from durable materials, such as brass or stainless steel, and are designed to be strong and long-lasting. 

Boat canvas fasteners are typically featured in covers for boat seats and cushions, the sails for sailboats, and the bimini top (canvas top), which is a type of canopy that provides shade on deck. Boat canvass is also used to make awnings and enclosures, such as cockpit covers and dodgers, which provide protection from the elements. In addition, canvas is often used as a backing material for boat cushions and other items to add strength and support.

How do I clean canvas on my boat?

To clean canvas on a boat, follow these instructions:

1. First, brush off any loose dirt or debris using a soft-bristled brush. 
2. Next, mix a solution of mild soap and water, then use a sponge or soft cloth to gently scrub the canvas with the soap solution. Avoid using too much water, as this can cause the canvas to become waterlogged and damage the fabric. 
3. Rinse the canvas thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue, then allow it to air dry completely. 
4. If the canvas is particularly dirty or stained, you may need to repeat this process several times to achieve the desired level of cleanliness. In some cases, it may be necessary to use a specialized canvas cleaner or a stain remover to remove tough stains. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using any cleaning products.

How do I prepare my outboard at the start of a new season?

After the cold season is finally over, it’s time to break out your outboard motor again. However, there are a few tasks you’ll need to perform before putting your outboard back in the water for optimal performance: 

1. Uncover & Unwrap - Before you fold up your engine cover and store it in a trash bag, the engine cover fabric itself should be cleaned. To do so, use a soft brush and a canvas-friendly cleaner like StarBrite Sail & Canvas cleaner.
2. Perform a Complete Walk-Around Inspection - With the cover off the boat, the next step in an outboard season breakout is to perform a walk-around inspection. Check for any leaks under the boat, specifically below the engine. Gear lube, engine oil, trim fluid, and gasoline are possible causes for any leaks or stains. Also, trust your gut - if something seems different than when you stored it, take a look to determine if any damage occurred. 
3. Protect Your Boat from Harmful UV Rays - UV rays can degrade your boat’s shine and even cause damage given enough time. Consider applying a coat of wax to protect your boat from UV rays. If you noticed your hull has a chalky appearance, applying a polishing compound before waxing brings out a bright, attractive shine.
4. Battery & Electrical System Assessment - If you removed or disconnected your batteries for storage during the offseason, it’s time to reconnect them. Before you do, visually inspect batteries for evidence of any physical deformation, leakage, corrosion, and age, especially around the terminals.
5. Inspect the Bilge Pumps, Float Switches & Fresh Water Systems - Float switches and bilge pumps are critical safety gear that is absolutely essential for worry-free boating in the new season. Properly wired float switches should function with or without the battery switch being turned on, so be sure to check both ways. Most boats are also wired so that the operator can manually toggle the bilge pump on. Check to see if the pump runs properly and that your bilge wiring, discharge hose, hose clamps, and thru-hull fitting are all in great shape. If your boat’s freshwater system was winterized, be sure to fill your tanks and flush antifreeze from the system, and dispose of it per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Consider a product like Spring Fresh to flush the freshwater system and clean the lines of any remaining antifreeze.

How do I repair canvas on a boat?

To repair canvas on a boat, first, clean the canvas using a mild soap and water solution. Next, identify the specific area that needs to be repaired and determine the best method for repairing it. If the canvas has a small hole or tear, it can often be repaired using a patch or by sewing the edges of the hole or tear together. For larger holes or tears, it may be necessary to cut out the damaged section and replace it with a new piece of boating canvas. In some cases, it may be necessary to reinforce the area around the repair with additional stitching or a reinforcing patch.

What is canvas made of on boats?

Canvas used on boats is typically made of a durable, water-resistant fabric such as cotton, polyester, or a blend of the two. The fabric is treated with a coating or finish to make it waterproof and resistant to fading and mildew. Boat canvases are often heavier and more durable than the canvas used for other applications, such as making tents or other outdoor gear, as it needs to be able to withstand the rigors of being used on the water.

What are some of the most popular boat cleaners for canvas? 

Meguiars Heavy Duty Vinyl Cleaner

A tough cleaner that removes heavy dirt and grime. Great for cleaning and prepping all vinyl, plastic, rubber and urethane surfaces. Apply to vinyl tops, bumpers, plastic door panels, car and boat interiors, luggage and furniture.

StarBrite’s Ultimate Vinyl Guard

Designed to work hand-in-hand with Star Brite’s Ultimate Vinyl Clean, Ultimate Vinyl Guard enhances appearance and UV protection for all vinyl, rubber, plastic and leather surfaces. Additionally, it is formulated to restore suppleness to vinyl exposed to the harsh marine environment and PTEF® polymers bond to treated surface to form a barrier that helps repel stains and damaging UV rays acting like a sunblock for vinyl surfaces.

Meguiar’s Vinyl & Rubber Cleaner & Conditioner

Cleans and revitalizes vinyl and rubber surfaces. Restores color with a rich natural sheen, not the typical artificial shine produced with conventional protectants. Screens out damaging UV rays that can dry out and crack the surface.

3M Marine Vinyl Cleaner And Restorer

3M Cleans, shines, conditions and protects vinyl, rubber and plastic surfaces. Deep cleans dirt and grime, enhances appearance. Restores natural sheen, protects surfaces.

303 Mold & Mildew Cleaner + Blocker

303 Mold & Mildew Cleaner + Blocker quickly and safely cleans and removes tough mold and mildew stains from virtually any water-safe surface. Not only does this product clean mold and mildew stains that have already formed, it also helps prevent mold and mildew stains from reoccurring on the treated surface. This product does not contain bleach, and will leave behind a fresh scent, with no strong odors. Works safely on vinyl, plastic, painted surfaces and even safe enough for use on fabric!

3M Marine Mildew Stain Remover

This product quickly removes mildew stains on vinyl, covers, cushions and other marine surfaces. It works well on light-colored and white vinyl to remove dark mildew stains and soil. The formula works quickly and requires little, if any, scrubbing. Follow-up with 3M Marine Mildew Block for long-lasting protection and to help keep surfaces looking cleaner and newer longer.