Exterior project designed with sail plans for dimensions
Sharp’s Custom Canvas, Georgetown, S.C.
This project, which won an Outstanding Achievement Award in the full exterior canvas sailboat 27’ and up category of the 2008 MFA Awards, included a dodger with frame, clear connector from dodger to bimini, three-bar bimini top with split frame, dogleg and Gemini supports. The seven panel enclosure has double zipouts so clear vinyl and screen can roll up separately. Aft side panel zipper follows contour of dogleg frame. Dodger mounted to Costa Track with zippered welt and handrails are removable so dodger can fold down when racing. Job was designed without boom or rigging installed, so Sharp’s Custom Canvas used the sail plans for dimensions. Deck had no attachment point for dodger. The dodger is 20-inches wider than the bimini, and the bimini frame was designed around the winches.
Project data
Designer: Chris Sharp, Sharp’s Custom Canvas
Fabricators: Chris Sharp, Jim White
Project manager: Chris Sharp
Installers: Chris Sharp, Jim White, Jonny Sharp
Boat type: 55-foot Giffe racing cruiser
Materials used: Marine Blue Sunbrella, SeaFlex 40-mil. clear vinyl, 1-inch stainless steel tubing, polyester mesh, Costa Track, Gemini struts and fittings