SPUR Grommet tool for DIY boat Awning? FABRIC reccomendations?

[Carl Wonderful]

Want to make my own awnings and things for my boat. Any recommendations for a simple grommet die setter for SPUR grommets? I'm fine with a hammer version to keep things cheaper and simple.

Heard SPUR Grommets are best so I don't wanna be a cheap jerk and use the light duty ones.

#2 seems like a good size for my needs i guess..?


FABRIC for AWNING...

Also trying to figure out what FABRIC/MATERIAL for my awnings. Sunbrella is so expensive. Any alternatives like treated canvas or something similar? I just want to make some beige colored awnings that will be up a couple times a week while we are out and anchored. I like to have some light glowing through or at least not a total blacked out awning.

Any info, tips, tricks, pics would be great.

I got a C22 and plan to make awnings over cockpit (6x8' with pvc or conduit, horizontal supports) and one small triangular cover up front at the bow so we can lounge up there.

THANKS!

 

[dLj]

Seems there is a kit that comes with grommets and the installation tools on Amazon. Doesn't seem overly expensive. You could them buy more of just the grommets if need be.

dj

Amazon.com

 

[Richard19068]

If you are just looking for shade and not rain protection you might look for "shade cloth" or "sunblock shade". It comes in a few colors and varying degrees of shade density. Commonly used in patios and gardens.

Here is an example:

shade cloth Search Shopping

Enjoy great deals on shade cloth at Bing Shopping! Find what you're looking for at a great price today.

www.bing.com

 

[garymalmgren]

Shade cloth (cheap and light) PVC electrical conduit,.
All tie downs to size with hooks on the ends.
3 minutes to set up. 2 minutes to pull down and stow up forward.
I made this one (the one in the Video) up as a test and as usual kept using it for 4 years.
Made a slightly larger one with darker (striped) shade cloth that I am using now.
I would recommend doing the same. make some thing up with the cheapest material and modify from there.
Not a difficult job and can be sewn on an ordinary machine.
gary
`

 

[Project_Mayhem]

For less than the cost of tools, I picked up a sun shade to use as a boom tent. I primarily use it to keep dirt off the boat when I'm away. It's shockingly good quality for the price. The only improvement would be more than four grommets but it works for my application. I believe this same brand has other sizes

Amazon.com

 

[...3TacksontheWater]

Sunbrella is a good investment if you plan to do the job once. Having said that, Sailrite is your friend and their site has excellent advice and plenty of tool suggestions and guides: Sailrite: Fabric and Sewing Supply Store

Now here’s some sun advice. I have spent a lot of time outdoors. Between cycling, golf, tennis and of course sailing for many years (I started sailing in my teens) and I am now back to it after a 20 year break. Back in the 70’s and 80’s it was my habit to always wear long sleeves and carpenter’s bibs while sailing to beat the heat and block the sun. Today’s much higher tech “HeatGear” by Under Armour is amazing. Much more comfortable and effective than what I started with. I wear HeatGear while sailing or cycling, the fabric keeps you cooler and blocks UV rays. I also wear the Heat Gear Leggings to go with my long sleeved tops. I would also encourage you to consider a wide brimmed Tilley hat which also has a high SPF rating for sun protection. Having this clothing will keep you protected from UV rays, comfortable on the hottest of days and give you some time to consider your options for the canopy. Just a thought.

George