Taking the next step: Jeff Newkirk grows his business

September 1st, 2021

The client requested skylights for the replacement retractable roof of this Sunseeker Predator 58. In place of the stiffeners that were in each hinge section pocket, Newkirk stitched TUFFAK Marine 5 (Makrolon) between Stamoid™ hinges. The TUFFAK was sealed on both the inside and outside of the hinge pockets. All stitching is with Tenara® thread. […]

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Automation advantages

September 1st, 2019

Technology solutions offer marine fabricators expanded capabilities, opportunities for greater creativity, and new project and market options. By Pamela Mills-Senn  Ask Thomas Carlson, manager of Tulsa, Okla., Carlson Design Corp., about his number one competitor and he offers up a surprising response.  “It’s a pair of scissors. Most of our customers have been cutting manually […]

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Focusing on quality, creativity and customer service

September 1st, 2019

By building his business slowly, Carl Pellegrini keeps SeaCanvas focused on quality, creativity and customer service. by Jill C. Lafferty Each project we accept is a new chance to make a change in the current design,” says Carl Pellegrini, the owner-operator of SeaCanvas, based in Egg Harbor Township, N.J. “Let’s say an enclosure for a […]

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Balancing the benefits and drawbacks of automation

September 1st, 2018

It’s always important to measure the return on investment (ROI) of any purchase—especially in the areas of equipment. The challenge is to balance the capabilities (and availability) of equipment and employees as automation and technology drive the future of the industry. Canvas Innovations in Holland, Mich., focuses on custom marine canvas and upholstery products, says […]

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Considering automation in your shop? Read this first

July 1st, 2018

Automation continues to play an increasingly important role in everyday life. Its potential effect on a marine fabricator’s workplace has, unsurprisingly, become a focus of both research and reality. The topic can become a bit like playing 20 Questions: What jobs will or won’t be replaced by machines? Which equipment will serve as the best […]

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