Luminaire by Enduratex is an innovative PVC upholstery with exclusive LTE technology that allows light transmission through the fabric, and it pairs with a variety of lighting methods. Use it to literally highlight branding elements such as a logo in seating in restaurants, boat interiors or corporate environments.  enduratex.com

Build your portfolio with more captivating images that showcase your craftsmanship and inspire new customers  Tips from renowned marine photographer Marc Montocchio & Sunbrella®  Show your project in context on the boat, positioned on a clean, simple background Focus on the project by minimizing clutter—don't forget to remove ladders, tool bags, buckets, etc.   Consider environments that [...]

What we now call “hacking” has been around almost as long as humans have existed. Today’s version focuses on technology, but the behavior takes many forms that even go back to the story of the Trojan horse. Hacking is simply the act of exploiting a weakness to gain access to something, whether that is in [...]

This 32-foot Fountain project completed in 2010 remains one of the author's favorite designs to date. How does a company go from simple box cushions to complex designs? It is not as hard as you might think. Our shop, Paul’s Custom Canvas Inc., was opened in 1979 by my father, Paul Charpentier. Like most fabricators, [...]

A perfect fit using the actual finish-fabric to produce the pattern produces a perfect fit when finished. Most everyone is familiar with the term patterning: as in to make a pattern of something. Basic patterning requires a material with which to create the pattern such as a clear plastic like Canvex®, Tyvek® or even cardboard. [...]

This Yachtsman’s Canvas project, which included a full canvas redesign and installation of a dodger, with frame, bimini and connector for a classic 1988 36-foot Sabre sailboat, won a 2023 MFA Fabrication Excellence Outstanding Achievement Award in the Sailboat Dodgers & Biminis category. When Keri Ames discusses her unlikely career path in the marine fabric [...]

Autometrix, which makes automatic cutting machines in Grass Valley, Calif., says its equipment is capable of enabling the highest production efficiencies. The key? “You need to set yourself up for success,” says product manager Gary Unitt. Photo: Autometrix Inc. Perhaps someday, thanks to artificial intelligence and who knows what else, marine fabricators will just need [...]

According to Gloria Mei, regional manager for Sileather® North American Division, a growing trend since COVID-19 is in van conversions, such as this Sprinter van. Its popularity provides a booming market for automotive upholsterers. Photo: Outside Van The textiles on floors, walls and windows in homes and commercial buildings often catch people’s attention. Now, automotive [...]

Defend is a lightweight, breathable, water-resistant, multilayer fabric that offers extreme protection for delicate surfaces against harmful UV rays and the elements. It is an excellent choice to use as a protective barrier underneath any marine canvas to prevent chafing on delicate gel coats or woodwork. Applications include automotive covers, boats and recreational vehicles. manart-hirsch.com

The term “future proofing” loosely means anticipating the potential shocks and stresses of the future and developing methods to minimize their effects. It’s an idea often used in industries like technology, health care, industrial design, climate change forecasting and, I would argue, it applies to nearly any business, including marine fabrication. It requires consciously understanding [...]