Keeping your outdoor equipment clean isn’t just about appearance—it’s one of the best ways to protect your investment and extend its lifespan.
At Outdoor Sewing Solutions, we are often asked if we offer an awning and tent cleaning service. The answer is no.
Our expertise is in the professional repair and restoration of outdoor fabrics. From caravan awnings and drive-away awnings to bell tents, safari tents, boat covers, glamping accommodation and commercial canvas products, we specialise in bringing damaged equipment back to life.
However, we know many of our customers enjoy maintaining their own equipment, so we’re pleased to recommend a range of professional-grade cleaning products from HLS Supplies, a trusted supplier already used by one of our commercial customers.
Professional Products for DIY Cleaning
Rather than using household detergents or harsh chemicals that can damage fabrics and waterproof coatings, we recommend using products specifically designed for outdoor fabrics.
Some of the products we recommend include:
AT-55 Awning & Tent Cleaner
A concentrated cleaner developed for outdoor fabrics including:
● Caravan awnings
● Motorhome awnings
● Bell tents
● Canvas tents
● Gazebos
● Boat covers
● Outdoor furniture covers
● Tarpaulins
● Glamping accommodation
It removes dirt, general soiling, algae and many mould stains while being suitable for canvas, cotton and synthetic fabrics when used as directed. (HLS Supplies)
AM-100 Algae & Mould Remover
For more stubborn mould and algae staining, HLS recommends following the initial clean with AM-100 to tackle marks that normal detergents may not completely remove. (HLS Supplies)
FS-75 Fabric Sealer
Cleaning can reduce the effectiveness of existing waterproof treatments. After your fabric has been cleaned and fully dried, a quality fabric sealer helps restore water repellency and provides ongoing protection against the elements. (HLS Supplies)
Products Suitable for Many Outdoor Fabrics
These products are ideal for many of the items we repair, including:
● Caravan awnings
● Motorhome awnings
● Drive-away awnings
● Bell tents
● Canvas tents
● Stretch tents
● Marquees
● Glamping accommodation
● Boat covers
● Cockpit covers
● Sprayhoods
● BBQ covers
● Outdoor furniture covers
● Commercial fabric structures
Why We Don’t Offer Cleaning
Cleaning outdoor fabrics properly requires specialist equipment, chemicals and processes that are very different from professional sewing and repairs.
Rather than trying to do everything, we’ve chosen to focus on what we do best—expert repairs, alterations and restoration.
By recommending quality DIY products, our customers can safely clean and maintain their own equipment, while knowing we’re here if repairs are ever needed.
Looking Ahead
We’re currently recommending these HLS products because we’ve been impressed with their quality and professional results.
If there’s enough customer demand, we’re considering stocking a selected range of these products in the future, making it even easier for Outdoor Sewing Solutions customers to maintain their outdoor equipment.
Need a Repair After Cleaning?
It’s surprising how often a good clean reveals hidden issues such as:
● Worn stitching
● Small tears
● Split seams
● UV damage
● Failing zips
● Damaged webbing
If you discover any of these problems after cleaning, don’t worry.
Outdoor Sewing Solutions offers professional repairs that can often add years of life to your equipment, saving the cost of replacement.
Whether it’s a family camping tent, a commercial marquee, a luxury bell tent or a caravan awning, we’re always happy to provide honest advice.
Clean it. Protect it. Repair it when needed. That’s the Outdoor Sewing Solutions approach.
Beware of Ex-Display Tents: Why That Summer Deal Might Cost You More
Why Ex-Display Tents Are a Gamble
A typical camper uses their tent for about 4 weeks a year—weekends, short trips, or a family holiday. But an ex-display tent, pitched outside for an entire summer (often 12-16 weeks), endures constant exposure to sun, rain, and wind. This can simulate 5-10 years of regular use in just one season! Here’s what happens to those tents:
• UV Damage: Prolonged sunlight degrades synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, weakening the material and reducing its waterproofing. You might not see it at first, but the tent could tear or leak on your next trip.
• Mold and Mildew: Tents left pitched outdoors trap moisture, especially in humid or rainy conditions. This leads to mold or mildew, which can ruin the tent and make it unpleasant (or unsafe) to use.
• Worn Components: Zippers, poles, and guy lines suffer from constant weather exposure, becoming brittle or unreliable. A single storm could leave you with a collapsed tent.
• No Warranty, No Peace of Mind: Many ex-display tents are sold “as is,” with limited or no warranty. If issues arise, you’re often left to foot the repair bill.
What the Retailers Don’t Always Tell You
Some retailers, like Camping Recycled or Vango’s refurbished program, claim their ex-display tents are lightly used—sometimes only pitched for photos or short-term displays. They may even offer a 1-year warranty after professional refurbishment. But here’s the catch: not all sellers clarify whether their tents were displayed outdoors for extended periods. Without transparency, you could be buying a tent that’s already on its last legs.
For example, Boutique Camping notes that their ex-demo tents may show minor wear but are sold without standard warranties. If the tent was exposed to a full summer’s weather, “minor wear” could hide serious degradation. Always ask: How long was the tent displayed? Was it outdoors? Has it been properly cleaned and repaired?
How to Spot a Safe Deal (or Avoid a Bad One)
If you’re tempted by an ex-display tent, protect yourself with these steps:
1. Inspect Thoroughly: Check for fading, brittle fabric, mold spots, or weak seams. Test zippers and poles for smooth operation.
2. Ask Questions: Confirm how long the tent was displayed and under what conditions. Was it indoors or outdoors? Has it been professionally cleaned or treated?
3. Negotiate Hard: If the tent has been exposed to the elements, demand a steep discount to offset potential repair costs or early replacement.
4. Consider Alternatives: Look for new tents on sale or from trusted retailers with full warranties. Alternatively, explore refurbished options from reputable sources, but verify their display history.
Repair and Reuse: The Sustainable Choice
At Outdoor Sewing Solutions, we’re passionate about keeping your camping gear in top shape. Instead of risking an ex-display tent, consider repairing or refurbishing your current one. Our expert sewing services can fix tears, reinforce seams, and replace zippers, extending the life of your tent and saving you money in the long run. It’s also a greener choice—keeping gear out of landfills and reducing the need for new purchases.
If you do end up with a damaged ex-display tent, don’t despair! Bring it to us, and we’ll assess whether it can be restored to full functionality. Our repairs are built to withstand the great outdoors, so you can camp with confidence.
Camp Smart, Shop Smart
Ex-display tents can seem like a steal, but those left outside all summer often come with hidden costs. By understanding the risks and asking the right questions, you can avoid a camping disaster. And if you’re looking to repair or upgrade your gear, Outdoor Sewing Solutions is here to help with expert craftsmanship and eco-friendly solutions.
Got a tent that needs some love? Contact us today or explore our repair services to keep your camping gear adventure-ready!
Happy camping, and stay savvy!
Sources Referenced:
• Camping Recycled: Notes ex-display tents are often pitched briefly, sometimes indoors, but buyers should confirm conditions.
• Vango Refurbished Program: Offers a 1-year warranty on refurbished tents, but exposure details vary.
• Boutique Camping: Mentions ex-demo tents may have minor wear and limited warranties, requiring buyer diligence.
• General Web Insights: Highlight UV degradation, mold risks, and the importance of transparency in ex-display sales.
About Outdoor Sewing Solutions EST 2014
Outdoor Sewing Solutions (OSS) is a specialized industrial contract sewing business based in Wetherby, North Yorkshire, England. It focuses on heavy-duty textile sewing solutions, serving a wide range of industries and individuals with repair, alteration, and bespoke manufacturing services for outdoor products. Here’s a detailed look at who they are, based on available information:
Background and Leadership
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Founder: The business is led by Martin Miller, a seasoned sailmaker with a deep background in textiles and outdoor equipment. Originally from New Zealand, Martin began sailing at age eight and started his career in 1984 with a four-year apprenticeship in canvas and saddlery at Hood Sails. His experience spans international sailing competitions (e.g., Admiral’s Cup, America’s Cup with Team New Zealand) and roles as a sailmaker and trimmer with North Sails International.
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Career Shift: After leaving sailmaking, Martin worked in the packaging industry, managing high-value equipment accounts across Europe, before returning to his sewing roots. His personal interest in caravanning with his family sparked the idea to repair awnings and outdoor gear, eventually expanding into a full-fledged business.
Location
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Current Premises: As of recent updates, OSS operates from Units 1/2, Grange Park Farm, Old Boston Road, Wetherby, LS22 4EJ. They moved to this location in 2022 from previous premises at Woodlands Farm, Building 10, Knaresborough Road, North Deighton, Wetherby, to improve working conditions while maintaining operational capacity. The new site, though smaller, offers a reconfigured workspace with a large sewing table, office, storeroom, and facilities.
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History: The business originally established in Harrogate In 2014 but relocated to Wetherby about six years ago when their initial premises were demolished for redevelopment.
Services
OSS specializes in heavy-duty sewn products, offering:
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Repairs and Alterations: They fix and modify items like caravan awnings, tents, sails, and boat covers. This includes sail repairs (e.g., luff curves, bolt rope tensioning), awning extensions/reductions (up to 500mm), and reproofing.
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Bespoke Manufacturing: They design and produce custom items such as yacht covers, bimini tops, sail shades, canvas bags, and glamping structures (yurts, bell tents).
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Contract Sewing: OSS serves commercial clients across leisure sectors (e.g., caravan accessory manufacturers, marine servicing, climbing wall producers) and other industries like the Institute for Outdoor Learning.
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Sectors: Their work spans caravanning, sailing, glamping, and general outdoor leisure, with a focus on durable, weather-resistant textiles.
Equipment and Expertise
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Machinery: OSS operates six industrial sewing machines, including four set into an 18-meter table for large projects, plus a bar-tacking machine and a zigzag machine for binding. Long-arm machines allow them to handle oversized materials without creasing, ideal for both repairs and new builds.
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Materials: They work with a variety of fabrics (canvas, leather, heavy-duty synthetics) and advise against harsh cleaning methods that degrade textiles, reflecting their technical know-how.
Reputation and Clientele
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Customer Feedback: OSS enjoys a strong reputation for quality and service. Clients praise their quick turnarounds (e.g., same-day awning repairs), skilled craftsmanship (e.g., sail and tent repairs that look “as good as new”), and personalized attention. Reviews highlight Martin’s professionalism and willingness to prioritize urgent jobs.
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Partnerships: They’re an authorized repairer for Telta ApS (a caravan awning brand) and collaborate with glamping companies for winter servicing of yurts, teepees, and bell tents.
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Community: Based in Wetherby, a town known for its vibrant community and proximity to the A1, OSS serves both local outdoor enthusiasts and broader UK trade clients.
Philosophy and Operations
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Motto: “We’ve got the outdoors sewn-up,” reflecting their comprehensive approach to outdoor textile solutions.
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Practical Advice: They emphasize proper care for sewn products, recommending gentle cleaning (e.g., with Iosso or Wet & Forget) over chemical-heavy methods that rot threads and brittle fabrics. They refuse about 1 in 20 repair jobs if the material’s condition is too poor to ensure lasting results.
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Accessibility: Open Monday-Friday 9:00 AM–5:30 PM and Sundays 9:00 AM–5:30 PM (closed Saturdays), with contact via phone (0776 467 9449) or email (info@outdoorsewingsolutions.co.uk).
Conclusion
Outdoor Sewing Solutions is a niche, expert-driven business in Wetherby, blending Martin Miller’s global sailmaking experience with a practical focus on repairing and crafting durable outdoor gear. It’s a go-to for caravaners, sailors, and glamping operators seeking reliable, heavy-duty sewing services, backed by a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. For more specifics, their website (outdoorsewingsolutions.co.uk) or social media (e.g., Facebook) offers direct insights into current offerings and projects. Want me to dig deeper into their latest activities or a specific aspect? Let me know!
New Premises for OUTDOOR SEWING SOLUTIONS
6 years ago we moved from our Harrogate premises to Wetherbyas they were knocking down our Harrogate premises for an old people home.
Now we are the move again to better premises in order to take the business forward in better kinder working premises.
The premises will be smaller but offers the same table size in a different configuration.
With offices, storerooms and all the facilities to making our working life more comfortable therefore better results for you the customer.
From a very small room in Harrogate with a table of 6 meters X 1.5 meters to 2300 square feet and a 16-meter table.
Our new premises although smaller will supply us with a table of the same area (shorter and wider) giving us a more efficient shape for spreading out most jobs.
It includes an office, storeroom, kitchen, and toilet facilities.
So we look forwards to greeting you all in the new year!
OUTDOOR SEWING SOLUTIONS have 6 industrial sewing machine of which 4 are set into an 18-meter table.
The two machines not set into the table are the Bar tacking machine and the Global zigzag machine we use for binding.
Machine range from straight stitch to zigzag and bar-taking machines.
Two machines are long-arm machines that allow us to manage larger jobs by reaching further into the middle of panels. This goes for new manufacturing jobs so we do not crease the materials while sewing and great for repairing large jobs being able to get more material under the machine.
The different stitch capabilities of each machine mean we can work more efficiently. One job might require different stitch types and thread weights.
Units 1/2 grange park farm, Old Boston Road LS22 5DY
Sewing Capabilities
Covid-19
COVID-19
Regarding the Government announcement of the national lockdown from Thursday 5th November, we will continue to work on-site and remotely.
We are ready to support you with your enquiries so please phone us to see how best you can have your items delivered to us and safely returned to you.
#handsfacespace
Courier
Notes
Order Now: We no longer collect due to people not being at home. You send it to us and we will deliver back to you on completion of work and once payment has been made.
Courier Charges from £30.00 Nationwide Please ensure that all items are free from dirt and wildlife. Only dry products can be repaired.
If you require us to dry your product please advise us prior to delivering as this may lengthen the time we require to complete our work and return your item to you.
All items will be checked for wear and tear and our clients will be advised of any recommended maintenance work. No additional work will be undertaken without the prior agreement of the charge.
We have the facility to service/repair items from small-bespoke bags to Marquees including garden furniture, canvas and heavy leather products.
Clearly, indicate or take a photo (email) of the area for repair.
3-4 day turn around for those wishing to be back in their caravans for the weekend
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How to make a RS Feva
The RS Feva is a two- person sailing dinghydesigned by Paul Handley in 2002. It is manufactured and distributed by RS Sailing.[1]The RS Feva is an International Sailing Federation (ISAF) International Class, a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Supported Junior Class
RS Feva are a rotational moulded boat.
There are 3 layers to the plastic Feva
- Polyethylene outer layer giving it the tough rigidity of the outer layer
- Inner layer expanding foam
- Inside layer natural polyethylene to give it rigidity on the inside.
The mould is loaded with pallets and rotated into an oven where the plastic slowly melts and set with a cooling process.
This process is repeated for each layer of material.
YouTube Video.
How to make a plastic boat by Steve Dean
