Tools, tips and tricks

Published On: September 1, 2019Categories: Shop Techniques

These are submissions to the 2018 and 2019 Marine Fabricators Conference Tools, Tips and Tricks contest. 

The 2020 contest submission deadline is Dec. 10 at marine.ifai.com/marine-fabricators-conference/tools-tips-and-tricks/.

Tip 1 

Prevent burning on stainless steel frames

Here is a simple and clean solution for keeping window materials from touching and burning stainless steel frames. Attach a narrow piece of felt or carpet backed with 3M VHB Tape (very high bond tape) to the frames. This will last for seven-plus years on frames that are in full sun or Florida-like conditions.

David Elliott, David’s Custom Trimmers 


Tip 2 

Device to store scissors, pencils and tools 

This old dishwasher utensil rack has been repurposed to store scissors, pencils and other tools for day-to-day operations. 

Joni Johnstone, Lakeside Marine Canvas 


Tip 3 

Sharpie eraser for patterning (2019 Third-place winner)

When patterning, everyone needs to erase a mark or adjust a line. You can easily erase a sharpie mark with a Goo Gone Pen. Works like a charm
and no more confusing lines when you’re back at the shop and trying to figure out which line or notation to use. Find it on Amazon or  www.googone.com/on-the-go-pen. 

Victoria Babylon, Canvas by Victoria