Category Archives: Fav things

Sunbrella – Grade A

Marine canvas use isn't all the same.  So when you are looking at prices online be sure you are looking at the same fabric before you decide you have the best deal.  You also want the right fabric for the right job for the best performance and durability with exposure to the sun, wind and rain.  Most of us sailors use Sunbrella because, well,  it just works.  It is tough enough for our marine environment, but offers a variety of color and style choices.  It is fairly forgiving and easy to sew.  While there are other outdoor fabric brands to consider, we'll save that comparison for a future post. Here are some points to consider regarding the grades of Sunbrella most likely to be used aboard: Sunbrella Marine grade - This is Read more [...]

Five Tips Every Seamless Sailor Should Know About Canvas On Her Boat!

Originally appeared as a guest post for Women and Cruising Blog - October 18, 2012 Anyone else have canvas on her boat? Yes?! I do.  Lots of it. Big and small.  Canvas is important protective covering for your boat. It saves you money and time by protecting teak from the sun, keeping dirt out of your winches and instruments, and keeping you cool at anchor. Can you guess how many different canvas items you have on board? Quick without looking.  I counted 20+ unique items with some items having multiples in use at any given time on our Morgan sailboat, Magnolia.  That doesn't count functional and decorative fabrics below.  And I have plans to add more canvas on my growing sewing projects list! How many unique canvas items can you Read more [...]

From the Annapolis Boat Show 2012

This comes under the category of a bipolar sewing-related and un-related blog post.  Fun at the Boat Show... Sailrite - I meant to take a picture of me talking to Matt Grant, but I forgot!  Darn. He was gracious to take a few minutes to chat while the booth was almost packed.  I made my suggestion of needle faceplate with measurements engraved on it.  He acknowledged that home sewing machines often have that feature.  But he feels that Sailrite machines are in the industrial category which wouldn't have measurements there.   OK I made my case.  (It could offered as an added option!)  Thanks for hearing me out, Matt!  He sold me the three piece kit with the larger magnetic fabric guide, the new thread spool holder and stitch length Read more [...]