Wesley Mancini Collection
Published On: March 1, 2017Categories: ProductsWesley Mancini has teamed up with outdoor fabric manufacturer Al Fresco Functional Fabrics for a new collection. The collection will feature more than 35 new designs, incorporating a wide array of new colors, novelty yarns and constructions. Made in the U.S., all fabrics are bleachable, antimicrobial and UV resistant. www.altizerco.com
Good people, bad choices
Published On: March 1, 2017Categories: Business, Shop TechniquesAsk an average person, “Would you voluntarily do something that is unethical or illegal?” Generally, he or she will reply something like, “Heavens, no!” People naturally prefer to do the right thing. However, when faced with enough pressure, some people will be tempted to cross the line. In my work as a professional ethics consultant [...]
Beyond process improvement
Published On: March 1, 2017Categories: FeaturesThe award-winning fabrication projects pictured here reflect the commitment to quality that management and employees at Marco Canvas bring to their work. Marine fabricator amps up teamwork and quality results There is a common thread with custom manufacturing—it’s very labor-intensive, very expensive and typically done by artisans and skilled trades people,” says Ed [...]
WeatherStrong® Outdoor Cabinetry
Published On: March 1, 2017Categories: ProductsFlorida-based Ideal Cabinetry has introduced a new modular Outdoor Cabinetry program under the brand name WeatherStrong®. These new cabinets are manufactured from a marine-grade waterproof polymer and feature 304-grade stainless steel hardware. WeatherStrong cabinets are built with precision dowel alignment and a fast-cure solvent-free structural adhesive system that provides excellent bond strength. www.idealcabinetry.com
SS71 Bonding Tape
Published On: March 1, 2017Categories: ProductsDeveloped by Miller Weldmaster, SS71 Bonding Tape is available exclusively from Trivantage®. Made with polyurethane adhesive, it uses proven bonding technologies for the clean assembly of projects. The welding tape is designed to work with Sunbrella®, Sunbrella® Plus, FIRESIST® and other acrylic fabrics. It creates clean, waterproof seams. www.trivantage.com
High-Performance Sewing Machines
Published On: March 1, 2017Categories: FeaturesEvery trade has its tools, and marine fabrication is no exception. A critically important tool of marine fabrication is the sewing machine. Regardless of the brand, a sewing machine has to be durable, reliable and easily maintained, because it is, after all, the workhorse of a productive shop. Purchasing a professional-grade sewing machine, however, is [...]
2017 MFA Fabrication Excellence Awards
Published On: March 1, 2017Categories: Awards, MFA Excellence AwardsSponsored by the Marine Fabricators Association (MFA), the Fabrication Excellence Awards contest is designed to recognize excellence in marine fabrication. The entries are displayed throughout the MFA’s Marine Fabricators Conference and are judged by a panel of Master Fabric Craftsmen. Awards of Excellence and Outstanding Achievement Awards are given in each category. The MFA recognizes [...]
Q-SNAP® fasteners
Published On: March 1, 2017Categories: ProductsManufactured by SUREFAS, Q-SNAP® is the only secure fastener that incorporates a stretch function. The snap is joined by a small lever to help secure and stretch the fabric enough to easily fasten a boat cover in place. While fabrication is similar to other fasteners, Q-stud-holders, stud-markers and Q-installation pins make installation up to three [...]
A mobile sewing unit grows a business
Published On: March 1, 2017Categories: Exterior, Shop TechniquesA Ford Transit Connect is a practical vehicle to equip with a mobile sewing machine for onsite repairs. As my canvas and sail repair business continued to grow, efficiency became critical. I needed a system that would accommodate me in doing offsite repairs with only one trip from the shop. I decided a [...]
Diamond Pleat vinyl
Published On: March 1, 2017Categories: ProductsAction Upholstery Supply has added a dielectric diamond pleat vinyl to its stock. Available in two colors: Seabrook chalk and ebony. This 54-inch-wide product is extremely durable to suit all marine applications. www.actionup.com