Navigating the future of labor
August 31st, 2023
Organizations need to be thinking about tomorrow and, more specifically, how the future of work, the workforce and the workplace will be dramatically different from what we know today. And more important, from what it has been in the past. Warp-speed changes ahead Let’s start by thinking about today and taking a pulse of the […]
Boat interior upholstery techniques
August 31st, 2023
You’ve undoubtedly heard someone say, “Just let the next guys worry about it,” which usually means the product they’re sending out will be nearly impossible for the “next guys” to work on or repair. Boatman Marine Canvas works on all sorts of lake boats that are 38 feet and smaller. Time after time we find […]
Sailor-friendly sailboat dodger designs
August 31st, 2023
This California-style dodger has five attachable panels that can be used in any configuration. California-style dodgers provide maximum flexibility for different sailing conditions. I have been a sailor longer than I have been a marine fabricator. In fact, being a sailor is how I got into this business. I often hear from fellow fabricators that the […]
Versatile engineered fastener
August 31st, 2023
C.S. Osborne’s LOXX® self-locking, quick-release two-part engineered fasteners are strong and versatile. Once the male lower and female upper parts are locked, the only way to release the fastener is to pull up on the upper cap where there is an internal tension spring to control the action when locking and releasing. Available in high-grade […]
Stronger boat cover fabrics
August 31st, 2023
AquaTop fabrics are built for strength and durability in extreme marine conditions. AquaTop Air is a 7.5- ounce solution-dyed fabric that is up to 1.5 times stronger and built for extreme UV resistance in sunbaked climates. AquaTop is an 8.75-ounce coated fabric that is up to 1.7 times stronger for added strength, puncture and water […]
Spring-loaded hole punch set
August 31st, 2023
Stimpson’s new spring-loaded hole punch set allows fabricators to single-source everything needed to set grommets and washers confidently, accurately and securely. The industrial-grade hole punch is made from high-quality W1 steel. It features a hardened guide pin for precise hole placement every time and a hardened cutting edge for superior cutting performance. For enhanced safety, […]
Seamstick taper tool
August 31st, 2023
Invented to make taping zippers easier, the Seamstick Taper is designed to apply seamstick tape to one side of a zipper, webbing or facing. The tape block on top is interchangeable to accommodate whatever the fabricator is taping. With the removal of a single bolt, the tape block is easily changed to other block types. […]
Waterproof stitched seams
August 31st, 2023
Whether fabric is stretched from wind or body movement, seams bear the brunt of the stress. Needle holes enlarge and sewn material pulls away to leave paths for water to seep through. Seam Sealer coats these areas with an invisible non-silicone waterproof barrier that doesn’t change the fabric’s feel, flexibility or color. Works equally well […]
Marine Industry Events
August 31st, 2023
All calendar events are subject to change. Please check websites for updated information. Sept. 22–23, 2023MFA Pacific Northwest Regional WorkshopOyster Creek CanvasBellingham, Wash.textiles.org/marineworkshops Nov. 1–3, 2023Advanced Textiles Expo 2023Orange County Convention CenterOrlando, Fla.advancedtextilesexpo.com Nov. 17–18, 2023MFA Great Lakes WorkshopChicago Marine CanvasChicago, Ill.textiles.org/marineworkshops Jan. 25–27, 2024MFA Conference 2024Tradewinds ResortSt. Pete Beach, Fla.textiles.org/marineconference
New members join MFA
August 31st, 2023
The Marine Fabricators Association (MFA) provides resources and programs for marine fabricators and establishes standards of excellence for business practices, products and craftsmanship. The MFA is a division of the Advanced Textiles Association, formerly known as IFAI. Join the only trade association today that represents the entire specialty fabrics and advanced textiles industry in the […]