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A rich history

First it was awnings, then it was boating and next outdoor furniture. Today it's residential interiors. From 1961 to present day Sunbrella fabrics continue to rise to the occasion, providing high quality performance fabrics for every corner of life.

A look at Sunbrella farbics from 1961 to 2011.

1961 was a game changer

Sunbrella fabrics debuted in 1961 as an alternative to the most popular awning fabric at that time, cotton. Sunbrella offered the rich look and feel of cotton, but did not fade or degrade, even in the brightest sun, and offered years of care free service.

Sunbrella boat ad (late 80's)

In the mid 70's boaters soon discovered the good looks and durability of Sunbrella fabrics for boat tops and sail covers.

Around the world today, Sunbrella is the No. 1 fabric choice for power boaters and sailors, enjoying universal name recognition synonymous with quality and durability.

Sunbrella cabana ad (early 70's)

Sunbrella fabrics on
premium furniture lines

Glen Raven Custom Fabrics, the makers of Sunbrella fabrics, took this winning formula – high-performance fabric with the look and feel of cotton – to the outdoor furniture industry. Marketing umbrellas and furniture cushions made with Sunbrella fabrics as fast drying, durable, easy to clean and beautiful. Over the years, all of the nation's leading casual furniture manufacturers have adopted Sunbrella fabrics for their premium furniture lines.

You will also find Sunbrella on the nation's roadways. Sunbrella is the leading choice for convertible car tops and is increasingly popular for recreational vehicles. Fade resistance, durability and popular colors have made Sunbrella a leader in these markets.


Sunbrella indoor ad (early 70's)

Sunbrella fabrics move indoors

While Sunbrella was gaining recognition in the great outdoors, Glen Raven was preparing Sunbrella to come inside the home. Thanks to intricate jacquard weaving, innovative yarn constructions and advanced fabric finishes, the design and manufacturing teams at Glen Raven created Sunbrella fabrics that match the look and feel of fine interior fabrics.

International design authorities Joe Ruggiero and Richard Frinier, along with Sunbrella fabric's own design team, have pushed the envelope on performance fabrics. Today you will find Sunbrella throughout the home, from decks, patios and poolside, to dining rooms, family rooms and even kitchen and bath. Sunbrella delivers a complete package of color, design, durability, fade resistance and ease of cleaning.

Sunbrella fabrics today have taken on the look and feel of worsted wool menswear, sensuous silks and luxurious velvet. The universal question on the lips of retailers and consumers alike echoes – “Are those really Sunbrella performance fabrics?” The answer is “yes.”

Sunbrella energy ad (mid 70's)

Meeting the needs of businesses around the world

In addition to meeting the needs of America's homeowners, Sunbrella fabrics are also a favorite with business and industry. You will find Sunbrella fabrics in awnings that decorate leading retail, commercial and resort locations around the world. Recent advances in the application of graphic elements to Sunbrella fabrics make them an ideal addition to corporate identity and brand-building programs, displaying detailed, full-color logos.

Design and performance creativity will continue to be the focus for Sunbrella fabrics. Wherever people demand fabrics that are beautiful, comfortable and dependable, Sunbrella will be there with fashion, right colors, designs and textures.