Merriam-Webster’s defines craft as: “an occupation or trade requiring manual dexterity or artistic skill.” As this relates to marine fabricators, I would tweak this sentence to read: “requiring manual dexterity and artistic skill.”

The finest efforts by marine fabricators are works of art, as anyone can see by looking at The MFA Fabrication Awards. Here you’ll find projects that go well beyond form and function to achieve true artistic beauty and excellence.

There’s an art to deftly incorporating basic hardware into a project so it works dependably without drawing undue attention. The Zippers 201 article provides techniques for working with zippers to help you finesse some particularly tricky situations.

Well-constructed tensioned-fabric shades certainly require an artistic imagination as well as careful execution. The article discusses the software and hardware requirements for creating shade structures that protect clients from sun exposure without using a bimini frame.

Our columns this month include Clint Halladay’s practical and creative suggestions for working with the new wave of exterior flooring, and Terri Madden’s expert flair for fabric patterning will help you deliver gorgeous projects that satisfy your clients and give you a sense of personal satisfaction.

Merriam-Webster’s definition of craft includes several variations: “the members of a trade or trade association,” “a boat especially of small size,” and “skill in deceiving to gain an end.” After meeting many of you at the MFA conference in Savannah in January, I think these all relate to marine fabricators—especially being masters of deception. You deceive yourselves by believing the artistry in your work is available to every skilled craftsperson. It is not.