Utility Canvas - Online Only

Utility Canvas is the unique vision of Hal Grano and Jillian Kaufman-Grano, a store that embraces a versatile and practical style. Throughout history canvas has played a primary role as a sturdy and reliable industrial material. Here you find the same consistency of high-quality workmanship in their collection of bags, home goods, bedding, and clothing for both men and women, all made in the USA using 100% cotton canvas.

Founded in 1990, Utility was created from the inspiration of Jillian’s artistic talent and Hal’s use of canvas material during his time as a canoe guide in Maine. Just as every painter starts with an empty canvas, the couple began their craft with a simple canvas bag—Jillian was unable to find a suitable art supply bag and decided to design one for herself. Having to manufacture more than one, the couple ended up with a stock of art bags and sold them to local art stores. Once the couple moved to Hudson Valley they began making other canvas items selling to stores such as Barney’s, Macy’s and Bloomingdale's, beginning with their colorful line of generously sized "Aprons" and their "Classic Field Bag," —a timeless tote that remains their best seller today.

Since 2011, their business has resided on Greenwich Avenue, equipped with their popular canvas bags, clothing, and accessories, including wool hats and jackets with canvas trim and lining. Bags are made with sturdy 18 and 21 oz cotton canvas with some bags fabricated using water resistant waxed canvas. To ensure consistent sizing every Utility Canvas item is dyed (garment-dyed) and washed (garment-washed) after the product is sewn, creating a beautiful pre-shrunk and pre-washed item with a lovely soft patine. Utility menswear and womenswear lines are produced in a lightweight 7 oz canvas, and each feature a spring and fall collection, with an additional holiday line for women. You can find vibrant colorful seasonal fabrics in solids and handsome graphic patterns, globally sourced with production taking place locally in Manhattan’s garment district. The store has also expanded with a Tokyo location and carries on its traditional style through Archerie, Jillian's dress boutique located in SoHo.

Utility Canvas puts great energy into delivering simple and practical designs with quality sewing and durable fabric. With charming selections of colorful graphic quilted throw blankets, quilted place-mats and classic backpacks, customers are sure to walk away with a trustworthy brand for everyday use.