Used only a few times for golf practice in the yard nearly 40 years ago. At the time, it was hung from a garden tree. Material... A blend of polyester and cotton, but I'm not certain. It has a substantial weight, and the ball is caught firmly, so I think it contains a considerable amount of cotton. It was stored in a shed, and there is almost no fading. I think there are various ways to use it, such as a pet enclosure, etc.