| Document and Entity Information Document | Sep. 20, 2019 |
| Document Information [Line Items] | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000082166 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 20, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | RAVEN INDUSTRIES INC. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | SD |
| Entity File Number | 001-07982 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 46-0246171 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 205 East 6th Street, P.O. Box 5107 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Sioux Falls |
| Entity Address, State or Province | SD |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 57117-5107 |
| City Area Code | 605 |
| Local Phone Number | 336-2750 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $1 par value |
| Trading Symbol | RAVN |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Amendment Flag | false |
