Canvas How-To Sites on Web?

Ross · Oct 4, 2008

Todd Bradshaw over on the woodenboat forum has some very detailed posts on canvas work and sailmaking in the archives. He is still an active sailmaker and usually participates in threads relating to canvas work questions.

Allan R · Oct 4, 2008

Have you tried Sailrite? They have some how to videos that you can view for free and others you can purchase.

http://www.sailrite.com/

Ed Schenck · Oct 4, 2008

Sewing, good thread!

Sorry, could not resist. But more about canvas work is a good idea. I made my bimini from a Sailrite kit. It is eight years old and still providing sun and rain protection. I made my cockpit cushions(too much work). I have made curtains, winch covers, and boat covers. I have patched many things, replaced zippers and basically saved a lot of money.

Two things that are required that I do not have, time and a good sailmaker's sewing machine. I did all the above without a walking foot. A close look at the stiching proves it.

I have the book that you mentioned. You will also find help on the Sailrite website: http://www.sailrite.com/Instructions-and-Tips . Good luck with your projects and getting something started.

Ross · Oct 4, 2008

Re: Sewing, good thread!

I did a "boat canvas forums" search on google and basically came up blank. Found one imbedded in a community forum and another one that boasted 6 members and was inactive. Sailrite didn't show up in my search so I my have to try different search words.

Buck420 · Oct 5, 2008

OK, Delphis, Here's My Threadbare Opinion

About 15 years ago I decided that I, too, was going to buy a sailrite sewing machine and make a new bimini, enclosure, sail cover, and dingy cover for the (used) 43' CC Morgan/Catalina that I owned at that time. The canvas maker wanted WAY too much !.. I decided I could do th job better and far cheaper.
My (then) wife could sew a nice straight seem, and I used the existing bimini and sailcover as patterns for new ones.
We did, in fact, make all of the above items for the boat. In the process I learned a GREAT deal about boat canvas work.... Knowledge that has served me well talking to canvas makers since then.
Among other things, I learned ( by painful trial and error) that canvas work is a skill that has lots of subtle "tricks" and is not nearly as simple as it looks.
In addition to the machine, materials, etc. etc. you will need a dedicated room with a LARGE table to do fabrication.
After it was all said and done, I saved (maybe) a few hundred dollars (if you don't count the MANY hours my wife and I devoted to the "project").
After we finished, I sold the machine and have, since then, used good canvas shops to sew what I have needed.
If you want a new hobby and are not concerned w/ actually saving any money..... If you have plenty of time and just want to learn something new..... And if you have plenty of room and patience (when you have to remake things), then jump into it.
However, If you are interested because you just want to save money .... WELL, good luck.

Ross · Oct 5, 2008

Delphis said:
It seems that there's a lot more to canvas work then meets the eye. I'll take your account into mind as I plug along. By way, what was your canvas guy charging per job?

Delphis, In all things there is a learning curve. Depending upon your sewing skills I suggest thet you start with projects that just challange your skills and work up. Tote bags are the basic starting point and you can't have too many. Covers are more forgiving than cushions. Biminis are perhaps the most demanding of all.
If you sew at all then you know that an "A"line skirt is much easier than a pencil line skirt. And skirts are easier than blouses or slacks. If you pay attention to sequence and pattern you will do fine.

r.w.landau · Oct 5, 2008

You got it right, keep asking.... you will decide what you will do.

To explain the head line, you have a need, there is great advice here... You are the one that is going to make it fit your boat.
Sailrite is a great place to buy and ask questions.
I have sewn everything on my boat because my wife doesn't sew.... I needed it done, I did it. Not always pretty, but done.
The worst that can happen is that it doesn't work...... try it again, it will.
r.w.landau

Ross · Oct 5, 2008

Re: You got it right, keep asking.... you will decide what you will do.

Sometimes you can get a very good deal on sunbrella on Ebay. Not always just the right color or pattern but remnants from upholstry shops at 4-6 buck a linear yard.

Buck420 · Oct 6, 2008

Re: Thanks BUCK 420

Cost depends on the job... shop several canvas shops; many people are slow these days because of the economy.
I had a new (replacement) enclosure (bimini and 10 panals) made in August. Top shop quoted $3500.00 in June; but 2 months later called me and said he was slow and if I would do it now (August) he'd give me another 10% off. I did.
Oh, I would suggest one of the vinly fabrics like 'Stamoid' instead of basic Sunbrella; they cost a little more, but are FAR more durable and waterproof.
Also, use "common sense" fasteners... they will hold much more reliably than "button snaps" or lift-a dots"...
More tips... liberally apply vasiline on your zippers; keeps them from corroding and becomming stuck. Use candle wax on ALL of your stitching, it will help the thread last longer.
Use ONLY microfiber cloths to clean Isinglass panals... anything else will gradually scratch the material and reduce your ability to see thru it. Don't use anything w/ ammonia ( like Windex) to clean Isinglass. Don't use "Rain-X".
I have found a product called "Frenzy" (sold in auto parts stors). Best stuff I've ever used for clear vinly, port, etc. ..
Google http://www.geoffreybodinefrenzy.com/geoffrey_bodine_s_waxing_frenzy_.html

Hope this helps... Buck

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