In-expensive Cushion(s) Improvement..

[jrhamp]

Of the many excellent suggestions/recommendations garnered on this site reference my newly purchased 1982 Catalina 30 (now at NAS Key West), the following may assist those who wish to modify/improve/recover their cushions.

Note the back cushions on the both sides (port and starboard) of the boat have 1/4" plywood backing. The fabric is attached using a stapler over the cushion foam or other to the wood backing.

I used this same method with the bottom cushions. Here's how!

I cut with a jig saw a template about 4 " less from the outside edge of the cushion. I used the cushion as the template. I then purchased 1" foam topper and cut to the size of the original cushion ..then glued the topper foam down with rubber cement on top of the old cushion.

I then took fabric (I used heavy duty wide beige whale corduroy) which I cut in the same template as the cushion allowing an addition 4-6 inches overlap so the fabric could be stapled to the 1/4" plywood backing.

The result was the bottom cushion was much better in terms of comfort using the topper foam..the beige wide whale corduroy. Using the same method with the side cushions resulted in what is an professional "cushion job".

I also "re-cushioned" the forward V berth. With the excess, I covered the rear cushion (rear starboard). The aft cushions...I threw out... and covered the back with indoor-outdoor beige carpeting..looks great!

Total cost was under $250.00. Note: I used corduroy fabric which had a woven backing to maximize strength and longevity.

I accomplished all working inside the boat...I would recommend alittle more space if you decided to try this alternative.

If you have any specific questions, please let me know. Randy

 

[jrowan]

We recovered our cushions last yeaar on a refit of our C 30. I had to replace the backrest cushions, as the originals were removed & pathetic replacements were left there by the P.O. We used the plywood in the backrest pieces, but not in the bottom cushions. Soundslike U did a good job, but I hope that fabric you used is a indoor/outdoor type of material such as Sunbrella. I always use outdor fabric in the cabin because it suffers from so much moisture & humidity exposure. We also sprayed ours with Scotch Guard as a precaution against stains. Although nothing can stop kids with chocolate on their paws from causing a stain or two. You are brave for using an off white fabric. It always looks great until you get a spot of motor oil, etc. on it. That's why I like to not put wood in the seat cushions. Cause you can flip them over when company comes over. Cheers.