Sponsored Content
Events
Year-end tax strategies webinar
December 2, 2021
The Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) is presenting a free year-end tax strategies webinar on Dec. 8, 2021, from 1-2 pm EST. The end of the year creates an opportunity for planning, both from a business and personal perspective. This webinar will discuss business and personal tax strategies for the remainder of 2021 and beyond. …
Industry News
American Boating Congress dates announced
December 1, 2021
The National Marine Manufacturers Association’s American Boating Congress (ABC) will be held in person from May 11-13, 2022, in Washington, D.C. It will bring together all segments of the recreational boating industry to share a collective voice on Capitol Hill. ABC 2022 participants will hear from members of Congress, administration officials, key committee staffers and …
Industry News
Rex Pegg acquires new company
November 30, 2021
Rex Pegg Fabrics, a wholesale upholstery supplier headquartered in Tacoma, Wash., has acquired Phoenix Trim & Supply located in Phoenix, Ariz. Phoenix Trim has served the surrounding area for the last 75 years and will retain its name while operating as a division of Rex Pegg. The acquisition creates an opportunity for the combined companies …
Events
NMMA postpones five shows to 2023
November 26, 2021
Due in part to supply chain disruptions leading to historically low market-specific boat inventory, the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) has postponed the 2022 Progressive® Insurance Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Nashville, and St. Louis boat shows to 2023. NMMA’s 2022 boat show and event schedule is as follows: Progressive® Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show®, January 20-23, 2022 …
Industry News
New leadership for NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations
November 25, 2021
The U.S. Senate confirmed President Biden’s nomination of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Rear Admiral Nancy Hann to lead the NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO) and NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps (NOAA Corps), one of the nation’s eight uniformed services, according to the NOAA website. “From flying into hurricanes to crewing remote …
Industry News
NOAA releases assessment and final rule for Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
November 24, 2021
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently released the final management plan, environmental assessment and rule for the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The new management plan includes proposed strategies and action plans for conservation and management of the sanctuary’s resources over the coming decade. The regulatory changes, which include minor changes to the …
Industry News
Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner program application now open
November 23, 2021
The application period to host a Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Station for the 2022 boating season is open through Feb. 1, 2022. The program started in 2008 and has made more than 83,000 life jackets available for boaters to borrow in 47 states and four territories. Presently, there are more than 800 Sea …
Industry News
Free recording of ABYC and USCG risk mitigation event available
November 22, 2021
A free recording is now available of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) one-day conference dedicated to mitigating the risk in designing and building recreational boats. The USCG Risk Mitigation Series 1: Regulations and Electrification event attracted more than 400 participants when it was held virtually on Nov. …
Industry News
2020 pre-owned boat market report now available
November 19, 2021
The Pre-Owned Boat Market section of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) 2020 U.S. Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract is now available. This report includes retail unit sales data, retail market values, average price information and pre-owned boat sales trends from 2008-2020. Data from the report show pre-owned boat sales exceeded one million units in 2020 …
Industry News
Report shows boating and fishing powered outdoor rec economy in 2020
November 18, 2021
The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) released its 2020 report on outdoor recreation’s positive economic impact, which confirmed that boating and fishing remain the number one contributor to this sector of the U.S. economy. The new numbers show outdoor recreation generates $689 billion in economic output, supports 4.3 million American jobs, and comprises 3 percent …
Sponsored Content
Supplier Spotlights 2022
Expo News
IFAI Expo: Shade sail dos and don’ts
November 3, 2021
Shade sails offer a great business opportunity for fabricators, but it’s important to keep some key “dos and don’ts” in mind. That was the message from Shazeebo owner and founder Patrick Howe during his presentation “Shade Sails Dos and Don’ts—A Deep Dive,” presented at the IFAI Expo in Nashville. There are several considerations for those …
Awards
IAA Awards deadline approaching
July 22, 2021
The deadline to submit a project for the 2021 International Achievement Awards (IAA) is July 30. The IAA awards recognize the best projects across the specialty fabrics industry. The awards are an opportunity to showcase your technical skills and talents to the entire industry. Awards are given in seven major categories and 42 subcategories and …
Events
Messe Stuttgart’s Sun Shading Expo North America moves co-location debut with IFAI Expo to 2022
July 7, 2021
Messe Stuttgart announced that its new U.S.-based show Sun Shading Expo North America will not be held in 2021 as a separate trade show but will instead contribute its expertise in internal and external sun shading systems at IFAI Expo 2021 in the form of expert talks, open discussions and more. IFAI Expo 2021 will still take place …
Expo News
Grants available to North Carolina small businesses to exhibit at IFAI Expo 2021
June 8, 2021
Eligible North Carolina small businesses can take advantage of a program allowing for reimbursement of booth expenses related to exhibiting at IFAI Expo 2021, Nov. 2–4, 2021, at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn. The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) announced another round of funding for the North Carolina State Trade Expansion …
Expo News
Registration is open for IFAI Expo 2021
May 10, 2021
Registration is open for IFAI Expo 2021. IFAI Expo celebrates the 100th anniversary of the show this November, and you won’t want to miss it! After a long hiatus of in-person events, this year’s show is the perfect place to reconnect with your industry. Register now to get the Early Bird rate! Early Bird rates end …
Events
Call for IFAI Expo 2021 speakers, topic ideas
January 5, 2021
IFAI Expo 2021 organizers are looking for presentation topic ideas and interested speakers for Expo 2021, which will be held Nov. 1–4, 2021, at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn. Expo organizers are looking for speakers and topic ideas for 50-minute classroom education sessions and 25-minute campfire education sessions. Submissions are being accepted for …
Expo News
Standard for active illumination developed in Europe
November 16, 2020
In a session at IFAI Virtual Expo 2020, “Smart Textiles Standardization, Active Illumination,” Dr. Jan Beringer, senior scientific expert Hohenstein Group, explained the new standard for active illumination that will soon be implemented in European Union countries. Organizations worked together to develop the standards. It is notable, he said that both textile and electronics industries …
Expo News
Rapid prototyping = faster market launch
November 16, 2020
A presentation at IFAI Virtual Expo 2020, titled, “Rapid Prototyping and Textile Product Development” urged attendees to use “sticks and glue … whatever method you have to get your idea out there.” The presenter, Dr. Andre West, director of the Zeis Textiles Extension (ZTE), Wilson College of Textiles, NC State University, may not have meant …
Expo News
Textile industry leaders call for policy changes to support U.S. production of PPE
November 13, 2020
The U.S. textile industry has stepped up to meet the demand for face masks, medical gowns, wipes and other products necessary to combat the coronavirus pandemic, but it needs policy changes from Washington so that the U.S. is not caught off-guard again in a future crisis, according to association leaders speaking at Industrial Fabrics Association …
Expo News
The larger issues in respiratory protection
November 12, 2020
Dr. Bryran Ormond, assistant professor, Wilson College of Textiles, NC State explained respiratory protection in an “Ask an Expert” session with Jing Liang, Medical PPE Consulting LLC. Dr. Ormand has typically worked in the area of chemical and biological protective equipment, but with the onslaught of the pandemic, began to focus on respiratory protection generally, …
Sponsored Content
Supplier Spotlights 2022
Awards
MFA Fabrication Excellence Awards deadline next week
October 22, 2021
From design excellence to quality workmanship, the MFA Fabrication Excellence Awards showcase projects representing the breadth of the industry from tops and covers to interior and exterior upholstery. Submissions will be accepted through Oct. 30, 2021. Winners will be announced at the 2022 MFA Conference at Wild Dunes Charleston’s Island Resort, Isle of Palms, S.C., …
Feature
Shade sails on land and sea
September 1, 2021
Honing your math skills can open up new markets. By Jeff Moravec On the way to becoming the owner of Wyckam Fabric Creations in Portland, Ore., Amy Poe developed a set of eclectic skills that have come in handy in the wide world of fabrication. She earned degrees in physics and Spanish and specialized in …
Feature
New solutions to some sticky textile problems
September 1, 2021
Supply chain issues aside, advancements in marine fabrics bring long-awaited solutions to at least some of the problems that have plagued marine canvas manufacturers since the dawn of the industry. by Sigrid Tornquist Despite a log-jammed supply chain and an increase in the number of people who want to renovate their boats, this is a …
Feature
Taking the next step: Jeff Newkirk grows his business
September 1, 2021
Pushed by the pandemic, Jeff Newkirk envisions a growth plan for Precision Custom Canvas. By Michelle Miron Jeff Newkirk, MFC, started sailing at such a young age, he can’t remember a time when he wasn’t entranced with sailboats, the glide across open water and the call of the open wind. That’s why sail and …
Feature
Members only content
Bedding projects that wow
July 1, 2021
The sleeping quarters are where marine fabricators can really show off their design chops, but for bedding projects that impress, asking clients the right questions and thoughtful preplanning are essential. By Pamela Mills-Senn Boats give marine fabricators plenty of chances to showcase their skills and some of the best areas on the vessel for doing …
Feature
Members only content
Digital patterning: 2D and 3D tools
July 1, 2021
How one fabricator stepped into the future. By Jeff Moravec Marine Tops Unlimited Inc. has been providing custom fabrication for Wisconsin boats for just shy of 40 years. Kyle Van Damme, who with his father owns the company in Omro, west of Oshkosh, has for the vast majority of those years done fabrication the old-fashioned …
Feature
Members only content
Tailored Solutions: Monica Stockburger profile
July 1, 2021
Monica Stockburger combines artistry with performance when repairing the vessels of Alaska’s Kachemak Bay. by Darcy Maulsby Southcentral Alaska is filled with spectacular natural beauty, hardworking people and an array of fishing boats and other vessels that are often in need of repair. The latter fact creates an opportunity for Monica and Mike Stockburger, …
Feature
Members only content
Tools of the Trade: Marine fabricators share their favorites
May 1, 2021
We asked marine fabricators to tell us about the “must-have” tools in their shop. The variety and creativity of submissions we received told us what we already knew—fabricators are a resourceful and innovative lot! By Cathy Broberg Hercules 1575 foam cutter with Bosch blade “A good quality foam cutter makes shop life so much easier,” …
Feature
Members only content
Managing difficult clients
May 1, 2021
Marine fabricators discuss their best forms of defense By Michelle Miron Most businesses have encountered these people at least once: impossible-to-please customers who make life miserable for everyone who has to work with them. Maybe they are disrespectful to you and your employees. Maybe they demand price breaks where none are due. Or perhaps they …
Feature
2021 Premier Product Showcase
May 1, 2021
High-quality products to help you create durable, attractive and successful projects. For this feature, we asked our contributors to send us information about their high-performing products. The product information was submitted by the participating manufacturers and suppliers by the established deadline. The products are organized into three categories: Fabric, Film, & Foam; Equipment, Tools & …
Sponsored Content
Supplier Spotlights 2022
Industry News
American Boating Congress dates announced
December 1, 2021
The National Marine Manufacturers Association’s American Boating Congress (ABC) will be held in person from May 11-13, 2022, in Washington, D.C. It will bring together all segments of the recreational boating industry to share a collective voice on Capitol Hill. ABC 2022 participants will hear from members of Congress, administration officials, key committee staffers and …
Industry News
Rex Pegg acquires new company
November 30, 2021
Rex Pegg Fabrics, a wholesale upholstery supplier headquartered in Tacoma, Wash., has acquired Phoenix Trim & Supply located in Phoenix, Ariz. Phoenix Trim has served the surrounding area for the last 75 years and will retain its name while operating as a division of Rex Pegg. The acquisition creates an opportunity for the combined companies …
Events
NMMA postpones five shows to 2023
November 26, 2021
Due in part to supply chain disruptions leading to historically low market-specific boat inventory, the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) has postponed the 2022 Progressive® Insurance Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Nashville, and St. Louis boat shows to 2023. NMMA’s 2022 boat show and event schedule is as follows: Progressive® Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show®, January 20-23, 2022 …
Industry News
New leadership for NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations
November 25, 2021
The U.S. Senate confirmed President Biden’s nomination of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Rear Admiral Nancy Hann to lead the NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO) and NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps (NOAA Corps), one of the nation’s eight uniformed services, according to the NOAA website. “From flying into hurricanes to crewing remote …
Industry News
NOAA releases assessment and final rule for Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
November 24, 2021
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently released the final management plan, environmental assessment and rule for the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The new management plan includes proposed strategies and action plans for conservation and management of the sanctuary’s resources over the coming decade. The regulatory changes, which include minor changes to the …
Industry News
Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner program application now open
November 23, 2021
The application period to host a Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Station for the 2022 boating season is open through Feb. 1, 2022. The program started in 2008 and has made more than 83,000 life jackets available for boaters to borrow in 47 states and four territories. Presently, there are more than 800 Sea …
Industry News
Free recording of ABYC and USCG risk mitigation event available
November 22, 2021
A free recording is now available of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) one-day conference dedicated to mitigating the risk in designing and building recreational boats. The USCG Risk Mitigation Series 1: Regulations and Electrification event attracted more than 400 participants when it was held virtually on Nov. …
Industry News
2020 pre-owned boat market report now available
November 19, 2021
The Pre-Owned Boat Market section of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) 2020 U.S. Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract is now available. This report includes retail unit sales data, retail market values, average price information and pre-owned boat sales trends from 2008-2020. Data from the report show pre-owned boat sales exceeded one million units in 2020 …
Industry News
Report shows boating and fishing powered outdoor rec economy in 2020
November 18, 2021
The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) released its 2020 report on outdoor recreation’s positive economic impact, which confirmed that boating and fishing remain the number one contributor to this sector of the U.S. economy. The new numbers show outdoor recreation generates $689 billion in economic output, supports 4.3 million American jobs, and comprises 3 percent …
Industry News
2020 Canadian Boating Statistical Abstract now available
November 17, 2021
The 2020 Canadian Economic Factoids report is now available as a part of the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s 2020 Canadian Boating Statistical Abstract. This report looks at Canadian economic indicators from 2007-2020 and identifies trends impacting the retail markets. Gross domestic product (GDP), disposable income, industry capacity utilization, manufacturing capacity utilization and unemployment rate are …
Sponsored Content
Supplier Spotlights 2022
Products
Leather-like upholstery fabric
September 1, 2021
Stamskin® Top Club has a new leather-grain texture for the already popular Stamskin Top upholstery range. Available in 15 modern colors, the fabric emulates the look of worn leather and performs well in demanding environments such as outdoor, marine and hospitality. Rated as a heavy-duty material, it withstands more than 600,000 double rubs in Wyzenbook …
Products
Corrosion-free screw stud
September 1, 2021
The CAF-COMPO composite screw stud blends with any design. Now introducing new M6-threaded versions that are suitable for installation on aluminum or steel, offering a 100 percent corrosion-free solution. No galvanic action on window profiles or other aluminum or steel surfaces. The stud is the lower part of a snap or press fastener system. Available …
Products
Smooth and comfortable seating
September 1, 2021
For exterior and interior boat seating, Causeway features a polycarbonate-based top coating for ease of cleaning and extended performance. It offers durability, stretch and recovery, color retention, and water and mildew resistance. Available in 16 embossed colors, it comes in marine fabric, Roll-N-Pleat and Foam Back styles. May be paired with matching marine-grade hidem gimp …
Products
Vegan leather upholstery fabric
September 1, 2021
Compo-SiL® silicone rubber-based marine leather is a green alternative to toxic leather and leatherette materials used for interior and exterior marine upholstery. Non-toxic and free of PPA, lead, latex and halogens, it is maintenance-free and easy to clean. It withstands the harsh sunlight and salt-rich ocean environment, is mildew resistant and can be customized to …
Products
Chic yet durable fabrics
September 1, 2021
Designtex has launched four fabrics that look and feel like silk and velvet, but they’re tough enough to be used in any environment. Glimmer has the subtle, metallic glow of raw silk, but it’s decked out in a tough topcoat that stands up to whatever comes its way. Nook, a hybrid textile with a silicone …
Products
Alternatives to mattress foam
September 1, 2021
As mattress manufacturers grapple with industry-wide foam shortages, Precision Textiles fiber products can be used in a mattress’s top comfort layer as well as an alternative to firmer foams that support spring units. Ecoloft is high-quality quilting fiber, Ecoloft Lux combines down alternative pillow fill with bicomponent polyester, and Vertically Lapped Densified Eco-Pads are formulated …
Products
Substance and style
July 1, 2021
Delivering powerful protection from extreme precipitation and moisture, Sunbrella® SeaMark® is a top-rated marine-grade fabric that doesn’t sacrifice style. Fabricated from Sunbrella performance fabric with a 100 percent impervious waterproof backing, the product is available in a range of colors for use on biminis, dodgers and cockpit enclosures, as well as restaurant patio enclosures, awnings …
Products
Durable elegance
July 1, 2021
Made to withstand adverse weather conditions, DUO is 100 percent water repellent with a natural appearance and agreeable texture. The reversable two-sided technical fabric is durable, lightweight and offers high UV-radiation resistance and eliminates condensation with a specific anti-mold treatment. Recommended for marine applications, upholstery and awnings. Easy to handle and dries quickly. www.decoabrusci.us
Products
Lightweight and waterproof
July 1, 2021
Waterproof yet breathable Tempotest Marine Coated fabric is lightweight compared to other waterproof products, and its acrylic back coat will remain clear and flexible. The fabric has high colorfastness and comes in a wide range of colors with a 10-year warranty. Recommended for boat covers, bimini tops, sun shades, sprayhoods, enclosures, awnings and canopies. www.miamicorp.com
Products
Luxury on the water
July 1, 2021
UV-stable Trevira CS Outdoor textiles are inherently flame retardant and are recommended for indoor use to comply with fire safety regulations and outdoor use where materials are required to perform against tearing and the elements. Appropriate for drapes, decorative fabrics, upholstery materials, sunscreen systems, wallcoverings or bedding textiles on cruise ships and other marine applications. …
Sponsored Content
Supplier Spotlights 2022
Exterior and Cover
Pontoon enclosure process honed to perfection
September 1, 2021
By Michael Charpentier Here at Paul’s Custom Canvas Inc., we have seen our fair share of pontoon boats over the years. Some of the first were a few pieces of wood bolted to two pontoons with basic seating and a rail to keep you from falling in the water. They had a 75-horsepower motor that …
Interiors & Upholstery
Products and techniques for custom cushions
September 1, 2021
By Terri Madden and Alayna Wool What do you do when a customer requests something that is outside your realm of experience? How do you elevate your skills in order to work on the type of projects you love? How do you learn about new product offerings and materials from suppliers? By reading columns like …
Awards
Marine Fabricator wins publishing awards
November 12, 2019
The Minnesota Media and Publishing Association recognized Marine Fabricator magazine, led by senior editor Elisa Bernick, with a Bronze Award and a Silver Award in publishing excellence for how-to articles, “Seam finishing for marine cushions and covers” and “Zipper basics and helpful sewing techniques.” Both articles were written by Terri Madden, owner of Sand Sea …
Interiors & Upholstery
Window Treatment Trends
July 1, 2017
Interest in window coverings for marine applications has experienced a rebirth of sorts and more consumers, fabricators and designers are using innovative window treatment designs. When Krisha Plauché, owner of Onboard Interiors in Marblehead, Mass., is fabricating drapery for a stateroom, she often uses blackout applications, but Plauché has found that lining drapery with a …
In the Shop
Fresh updates for older vessels
January 1, 2017
Most interior fabrication projects occur on fixer-uppers. The vessel might be vintage or it might be less than ten years old. While I always welcome the challenge of doing a better design than the original, there is a fine line between aesthetics and practicality. After all, the boat needs to be both comfortable and secure …
How-To Articles
Constructing snow flies for the Alaskan climate
January 1, 2017
Our winters in Fairbanks, Alaska, can be cold or very cold with lots of snow or little snow; it all depends. One condition we don’t see often is wind. In my 26 years of living here, I can remember only one time when the wind blew and the snow flew. Most of our snow falls …
How-To Articles
Meticulous prototyping leads to attractive cylinder cushions
September 1, 2016
Over the years I have been asked to fabricate several unusual items. I never know if that item will be a one-hit wonder or will become a customer favorite. In most cases, I create prototypes that help me creatively solve design challenges. I charge a prototype fee of a few hundred dollars to develop and …
How-To Articles
Marine fabricators meet customers’ window wish lists
August 1, 2016
When making boat windows for customers, marine fabricators often have a specific set of requirements of their materials. “Our fabricators require a sheet that is easy to handle, durable and can be cut and sewn easily without fear of damaging the product,” says Lyle Shipley, product manager at O’Sullivan Films, Winchester, Va., for O’Sea and …
How-To Articles
Complex and compound frame bending
July 1, 2016
Incorporating unconventional design into dodgers and biminis. I often suggest that my customers try to think out of the box when envisioning what their boats can look like. I tell them, “If I have done my job properly, the cover will become part of the boat.” Take a spray dodger, for example. I generally recommend …
Interiors & Upholstery
The art of project management on contour cushions
July 1, 2016
Marine fabricators are a unique group of craftspeople and business owners. Many of us are familiar with the notion that creative pursuits are right-brain activities, while math and logic are left-brain activities. As marine fabricators, we utilize the right sides of our brains for design solutions that meet customers’ aesthetic and practical expectations. At the …
