Bed sheets
The classified and small space ads in the back of most sailing and boating magazines offer sheets and other bedding to fit vee berths and other odd sized sailboat bunks. They ain't cheap. The problem with using standard rectangular sheets is that there is too much material to tuck neatly. I've found a way that works for me. It takes a few minutes for the initial setup. After that, it's a snap. I purchased four good sized alligator clips and some bungee cord. Lay both sheets on top of the vee berths evenly. Tuck the excess under on one side and fold back the tops of both sheets so that the center separation of the vee berth cushions is exposed. Lift the cushion opposite the one that has the folded sheets on it. Using an alligator clip, grasp the tucked under sheets about 18 inches from the bow end and about 12 inches from the center where the cushions will meet. NOTE: Because of the excess of material folded under, you won't be grasping the sheets along the edge. Do the same thing about 18 inches in from the stern end of the vee berth cushions. Measure the length of bungee cord that will reach from the alligator clips to the center line of the vee berth. The aft ine will be longer. Double the lengths and cut them. Fasten with a small knot to the alligator clips. Tie an alligator clip to the free end of each bungee cord. Straighten out the cushions and the sheets but do not tuck in on the free side. Fold the free side cushion together with the sheets so that the sheets fold on the centerline. Next, with the sheets sandwiched neatly between the cushions, fold the excess over the edge of the cushion lying on top. Bring the free alligator clips around, stretch the bungee cord a bit, and grasp the sheets. Unfold the cushion and sheet sandwich and view your work. If you are lucky, the sheets will be stretched tight and will be wrinkle free. If they are a bit loose, adjust the alligator clips. After you have slept on the sheets a few times, you'll know where the clips should be placed for correct tension. Mark these spots with a waterproof marker or a few needle stitches with contrasting thread so you'll know where to place the clips after the sheets have been laundered. If you wish, you can use the same method to secure blankets and comforters. As with most things on sailboats, a little improvising and adjusting makes a difference. If you're handy with a sewing machine, you may wish to do some trimming and hemming. Just go easy so you don't remove too much. Have fun and save some money.
