Company:
Chicago Marine Canvas

Project Details

Fabric 1

Sunbrella
Producer: Glen Raven Custom Fabrics LLC
Supplier: Keyston Bros.

Fabric 2

Strataglass
Producer: Strataglass LLC
Supplier: Keyston Bros.

Fabric 3

SolarFix 2400 Denier Black
Producer: Quality Thread and Notions
Supplier: Keyston Bros.



Please describe the project specifications

As we drove out of the last harbor/install on the Friday before Labor Day weekend the phone rang, someone spotted our van and wanted us to come by for an estimate ASAP. As much as we were ready for the weekend to begin, we went by to take a look at the 58' Bayliner Pilot House, Southern Cross......


What was the purpose of this project? What did the client request?

The customer just purchased the yacht and needed a bridge and aft deck enclosure along with nine window and upholstery covers which would be our largest project of the year. The bridge had a venturi windshield and viability was crucial. They also wanted multiple roll up windows for fresh air and screens. The aft enclosure panels were all to have roll ups, screens and also privacy curtains that could be rolled up too. The customer had specific goals for the enclosures and gave us the design freedom to accomplish this.


What is unique or complex about the project?

The most challenging aspect of this project was that the boat was leaving to start the Great Loop in two weeks and it needed to all be completed within the time frame. Our entire shop went into overtime completing other projects and jumped right on this job.

Design and Technical difficulties started with the yacht having zero hardware installed. We needed to install Flex Rail track for the aft and bridge drop panels along with a variety of fasteners in all areas. The bridge drop panels were not able to follow a typical design "line" due to the odd shaping of the seating and placement of the dingy. The design and install of the forward bridge windows over the venturi windshield were also difficult. We used a heavy vinyl (Ktex) on the inside area of the panel which rubs against the windshield to prevent chaffing over the long term. The multi-ply aft enclosure panels with roll ups, screens and privacy curtains (secured via hook/loop) were also very challenging not only design but also for our seamstress to sew in an effective manner.


What were the results of the project?

The customer could not believe the transformation of his yacht, he loved it! Everything turned out great with not only the design but most importantly the functionality of the enclosures. The forward bridge panels fit extremely well over the venturi windshield along with the other bridge panels. The aft enclosure worked great with the privacy covers and roll ups. The project was completed on schedule and the customer is currently traveling the great loop!


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