Acquisitions of and Investments in Businesses and Technologies - Pro forma consolidated condensed financial results of operations (Details) (Vista Research [Member], USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2012
Vista Research [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Pro forma net sales	$ 395,974
Pro forma net income attributable to Raven Industries, Inc.	$ 49,907
Pro forma earnings per common share:
Basic (in usd per share)	$ 1.38
Diluted (in usd per share)	$ 1.37