A fabric gazebo is a type of structure used as a temporary shelter from the elements. The fabric is stretched over and secured to a metal frame, usually aluminum or steel. A fabric gazebo covering can be made from canvas, cotton, nylon, or other synthetic materials that are water-resistant or waterproof and durable enough to withstand constant exposure to the elements. These types of fabric gazebo are not intended to be permanent structures, though heavy duty frames can hold up heavy duty materials, and the finished structure can be semi-permanent; the frame can be fixed permanently, and the fabric can be put on the structure or taken off it as needed.
These structures are often used as shade in the garden or the patio for meals, gatherings, or casual relaxation. A fabric gazebo can usually be left erect for an entire summer season, then broken down and stored for the winter. The storability of the structure depends on what kinds of materials are used to make it: aluminum poles used for the frame are very lightweight and usually compact, making breakdown and storage quite easy; thinner fabrics such as nylon or cotton can be stored easily, but materials such as canvas do not pack up as easily and are much heavier than lighter, synthetic materials.
Some fabric gazebo designs feature ripstop nylon as the material of choice for the covering. This synthetic material is resistant to water, making it a good choice for a shelter against the weather, and it features a weave that stops ripping should the fabric be punctured or otherwise struck by a sharp object. Any punctures can be patched with ripstop nylon patches as well.
Canvas fabric gazebo designs can often be more permanent. Canvas is made from cotton or linen, and it is a very durable material for use as a fabric gazebo. It tends to be quite heavy, so a thicker, sturdier frame will be required for a canvas gazebo. Such gazebos are often made so the walls can be opened or closed; the canvas flaps can be tied back against the frame, thereby making the shelter open-air. The flaps can be dropped and tied together at the middle to close off the shelter, thereby adding more protection from wind, rain, sunlight, or bugs.