Author: Ireland Ashburn

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32.5 Dufour Sailboat California Dodger and Bimini Top

325 Dufour Dodger and Bimini Top The Salty Dog Sailing Company reached out to Chicago Marine Canvas to fabricate a new custom sailboat dodger and bimini top for their 33ft 2005 Dufour 325 sailboat. Using a combination of marine grade quality products and state of the art technology, we were able to not only meet the customer’s expectations but exceed them. 

At Chicago Marine Canvas we offer a plethora of styles and colors. This meets everyone’s needs due to a variety of selections ranging from loud and vibrant tones to classic and timeless colors. For this project, we used an elegant Sunbrella canvas in Marine Blue on the dodger along with matching Sunbrella Marine Blue binding.

The dodger features a canvas top and five adjoining windows made out of a super durable Aqua-lite UV polycarbonate material designed for high-impact, made to withstand even the most extreme weather conditions, and offers a clear view while also providing protection from the sun’s UV rays. 

Not only does the dodger feature custom stainless steel side grab rails installed on the dodger top.  The dodger is also sewn with black Solarfix PTFE Thread. This type of heavy marine grade thread is backed with a limited lifetime guarantee. The leather reinforcement along rigging lines and the fastener less connection to the topside of the sailboat, allow for a user-friendly and hassle-free daily operation. This was achieved with the use of a PVC track and Keder insert. 

The bimini frame was bent from 1″ stainless steel and was designed with a small mast window, an essential component of all sailboat biminis. The use of heavy duty, marine grade Lenzip Zippers on both the dodger and bimini top will ensure smooth operation and are a testament that even the smallest components were carefully selected to provide a durable and long-lasting result. 

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Electric Elk: Custom Aluminum Welding and Enclosure

Unveiling Electric Elk

Discover the thrilling world of biking in Chicago and elevate your riding experience with Electric Elk with the help of Chicago Marine Canvas. With a purpose-driven mission to accelerate the global transition to sustainable energy, Electric Elk designs and produces electric bikes that combine cutting-edge technology with eco-friendly materials. With a commitment to innovation, their electric bikes redefine urban mobility, offering style, substance, and a greener commuting alternative.

First Prototype
Second Prototype

Custom Aluminum Welding

Using the vision of Electric Elk, Chicago Marine Canvas worked on custom aluminum welding to create a sturdy cover that encompasses the entire bike. Our team worked with Electric Elk to create the first prototype (left) which was then expanded into the second variation (right). The result was a lightweight and durable addition that seamlessly integrated strength and aesthetics, providing the perfect solution for urban biking adventures.

Custom Canvas with Isinglass Windows

After the frame was created, the next step of the bike remodel project involved outfitting the bike with a custom canvas enclosure. Electric Elk’s primary concern was protecting their belongings and the rider from unpredictable weather while maintaining visibility. To address this, our craftsmen expertly incorporated Isinglass Windows into the design. This transparent and resilient material allowed for clear views while safeguarding the area against the elements.

Commitment to Excellence

The Electric Elk Project is a testament to our expertise and demonstrates Chicago Marine Canvas’ commitment to excellence. By combining Custom Aluminum Welding with a custom canvas enclosure featuring Isinglass Windows, we created a biking experience that excels in both form and function. Learn more about Electric Elk through their website: Electric Velomobile – Electric Elk. Beyond bike remodels, our team offers a diverse range of services, from custom boat covers to marine upholstery, ensuring we cater to all your outdoor needs.

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Beneteau Swift Trawler 34

Enhancing the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34

This Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 was enhanced by Chicago Marine Canvas adding custom covers that elevate the boating experience. A Bimini Top, crafted from durable Sunbrella black material, shields occupants from harsh weather elements while providing a cool, shaded space for sunny days. This practical and stylish custom top includes convenient openings for handling mainstay lines to the mast with ease.

Bow Pad Cover

Customize the Swift Trawler 34 with a Bow Pad Cover, expertly crafted from SergeFerrari Stamoid White material, renowned for its resistance to UV damage and mildew. This cover keeps the yacht’s bow area clean and secure, preventing debris and dirt accumulation. The Bow Pad Cover perfectly complements the other custom covers, completing the ensemble of protection and style.

Bridge Railing Covers

The vessel’s appeal is further upgraded with Bridge Railing Covers made from Sunbrella Black fabric. These covers protect the railing system against sun damage, scratches, and wear and tear, lending the yacht a polished and sophisticated appearance. Bridge Railing Covers ensure the longevity of the yacht’s railings while adding an extra touch of style

Comfort and Style

The addition of these custom covers elevates the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34, making every boating adventure a delightful experience. The durable Sunbrella Black and SergeFerrari Stamoid White materials not only provide superior protection but also add a touch of sophistication. Whether planning a coastal cruise or an open-sea journey, these custom covers ensure comfort and style throughout. 

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Sea Ray 420 Sundancer

Sea Ray 420 Sundancer

The Sea Ray 420 Sundancer at Prairie Harbor Yacht Club in Wisconsin has undergone a stunning transformation with the help of Chicago Marine Canvas. This popular boat model now features several upgrades, including the use of Captain Navy Sunbrella fabric, polycarbonate windows, Strata Glass, and top-of-the-line hardware like Lenzip zippers and Solar Fix PTFE thread. In addition, the Sea Ray is also crafted with flip-up center and side windows, taking comfort and convenience to new heights.

Captain Navy

One of the most striking aspects of the Sea Ray 420 Sundancer is the incorporation of Captain Navy Sunbrella fabric. Sunbrella fabric is well-known for its exceptional durability and ability to withstand the harsh marine environment. It offers reliable protection against UV rays, mold, and mildew, ensuring that the boat’s upholstery stays in pristine condition for years to come. The deep, rich navy color of the fabric adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the boat’s overall aesthetic.

Clear Views Ahead

Enhancing both safety and visibility, the Sea Ray 420 Sundancer features polycarbonate windows in the front. Polycarbonate is a highly robust and impact-resistant material that provides excellent clarity and durability. These forward-facing windows offer passengers an unobstructed view of the surrounding environment, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of the sea.

Complementing the polycarbonate windows, the Sun Ray incorporates Strata Glass windows at the back. Strata Glass is a marine-grade vinyl material renowned for its exceptional clarity, scratch resistance, and long-lasting performance. These windows not only provide an undisturbed view of the water but also create a comfortable and protected environment within the bridge area. Passengers can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about the elements.

Flip-Up Windows

Adding to the convenience and versatility of the Sea Ray 420 Sundancer, the boat features flip-up center and side windows. These windows can be easily flipped open or closed to control airflow and optimize ventilation within the cabin. This feature allows passengers to enjoy fresh air and natural light when desired while also providing protection and comfort during adverse weather conditions.

High Quality Hardware

When it comes to the hardware and stitching, the Sea Ray 420 Sundancer sets a high standard with its use of Lenzip zippers and Solar Fix PTFE thread. Lenzip zippers are known for their reliability and durability, offering a limited lifetime guarantee. These zippers ensure smooth operation and secure closure of the boat’s canvas components. Paired with Solar Fix PTFE thread, which is renowned for its strength, UV resistance, and ability to withstand environmental damage, the Sea Ray 420 Sundancer’s canvas components are built to withstand the test of time.

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Lady M

Lady M

Embarking on a summer journey to Canada, the 65ft Navigator, Lady M, underwent a remarkable transformation with the help of Chicago Marine Canvas. Through innovative design and craftsmanship, a custom lower aft frame was fabricated, creating the illusion of a fiberglass hardtop. Complemented by the choice of fabrics, both inside and out, Lady M now boasts a seamless blend of style, functionality, and durability.

The Illusion of Fiberglass

Chicago Marine Canvas took Lady M’s aesthetic to new heights by crafting a custom bimini top spanning an impressive 16ft X 10ft. Constructed with 1 ¼-inch stainless steel tubing, this frame showcases the team’s expertise in combining structural integrity with visual appeal. By utilizing Serge Ferrari’s Stamoid Top fabric in white, and then black through the windows, an extraordinary illusion of a fiberglass hardtop is achieved, per the customer’s design choice.

Visual Harmony and Lengthened Appeal

Lady M’s custom canvas design makes clever use of color to enhance the vessel’s aesthetics. The black fabric seamlessly blends into the horizon, creating a sleek and uninterrupted profile. This choice allows the eyes to focus on the boat’s captivating features, highlighting its length and sophistication. Meanwhile, the white fabric blends harmoniously with the rest of the boat, elongating the vessel’s overall appearance and drawing the viewer’s gaze across its entirety.

Superior Comfort and Enduring Style

Chicago Marine Canvas didn’t stop at enhancing Lady M’s exterior allure.  Custom bridge and bow cushions made from Sunbrella Horizon in Capriccio White gave a touch of luxury to the vessel. These cushions not only provide unparalleled comfort but also demonstrate remarkable durability while still offering timeless elegance.

The Sunbrella Horizon Difference

Sunbrella Horizon fabric delivers exceptional performance and practicality, making it an ideal choice for Lady M’s interior cushions. The fabric’s resistance to mold and mildew ensures longevity, even in challenging marine environments. Additionally, its resistance to cold-cracking and UV fading guarantees that the cushions will remain vibrant and intact, withstanding the rigors of the summer sun. Furthermore, Sunbrella Horizon’s bleach-cleanable feature ensures easy maintenance, allowing for worry-free enjoyment of every adventure.

Lenzip Zippers and Solar Fix PTFE Thread

Lady M acknowledges the significance of dependable hardware and sewing techniques. This vessel is furnished with Lenzip zippers and Solar Fix PTFE thread, guaranteeing exceptional efficiency and durability. Lenzip zippers are accompanied by a restricted lifelong warranty, offering reassurance and dependability with each utilization. Coupled with Solar Fix PTFE thread, renowned for its robustness, UV resistance, and ability to withstand environmental harm, these elements guarantee the longevity of the boat’s canvas components.

Elegance and Functionality

Chicago Marine Canvas has truly elevated Lady M’s elegance and functionality with their custom canvas work. The creation of a custom lower aft frame, expertly designed to mimic a fiberglass hardtop, showcases their dedication to both form and function. The careful selection of fabrics, with the black and white combination, enhances the vessel’s aesthetic appeal, lengthening its profile and captivating the eye. Inside, the Sunbrella Horizon cushions provide unbeatable comfort, resilience, and easy maintenance. Look out for Lady M as she embarks on her voyage to Canada for the summer and then to the Caribbean in the fall!

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Sol Mates

Sol Mates

Embark on a boating adventure with Sol Mates, a vessel that exudes elegance and incorporates top-of-the-line features. Recent upgrades by Chicago Marine Canvas showcase the finest materials and components, from Captain Navy Sunbrella fabric to polycarbonate and Strata Glass windows. This boat offers style, durability, and countless memorable journeys on the open seas.

Captain Navy Sunbrella Fabric

One of the standout features of Sol Mates is the use of Captain Navy Sunbrella fabric. Renowned for its exceptional durability and resistance to the elements, Sunbrella fabric offers reliable protection against UV rays, mold, and mildew. It not only ensures the longevity of the boat’s upholstery but also enhances its visual appeal with its deep, rich navy color.

Polycarbonate Forward-Facing Windows

Sol Mates takes visibility and safety to a whole new level with its polycarbonate forward-facing windows on the fly bridge. Polycarbonate is a robust, impact-resistant material that offers excellent clarity and durability. These windows provide an unobstructed view of the surroundings while protecting passengers and crew from inclement weather conditions.

Strata Glass Windows

Complementing the polycarbonate windows, Sol Mates features Strata Glass windows on the bridge facing the back of the boat. Strata Glass is a marine-grade vinyl material known for its exceptional clarity, scratch resistance, and long-lasting performance. These windows ensure an undisturbed view of the water while maintaining a comfortable and protected environment within the bridge.

SeaMark Fabric

To add a touch of elegance and functionality, the Sol Mates boat incorporates a laced-on bridge top made of SeaMark fabric. SeaMark fabric is renowned for its exceptional durability, water resistance, and color retention properties. This laced top not only offers protection from the elements but also adds a stylish finishing touch to the boat’s overall design.

Lenzip Zippers and SolarFix PTFE Thread

Sol Mates understands the importance of reliable canvas hardware and stitching. Equipped with Lenzip zippers and SolarFix PTFE thread, this boat ensures optimal performance and longevity. Lenzip zippers come with a limited lifetime guarantee, providing peace of mind and reliability in every use. Paired with SolarFix PTFE thread, known for its strength, UV resistance, and resistance to environmental damage, these components ensure the boat’s canvas components endure the test of time.

Stainless Steel Hardware

In line with its commitment to durability, all hardware on the Sol Mates boat is crafted from stainless steel. Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and rust, making it the ideal choice for marine applications. By incorporating stainless steel hardware, the boat maintains its pristine condition even after continuous exposure to saltwater and other harsh marine environments..

Style and Durability

Sol Mates is a testament to the fusion of style, durability, and functionality. With its premium upgrades, including the Captain Navy Sunbrella fabric, polycarbonate and Strata Glass windows, laced-on bridge top made of Seamark fabric, and robust stainless-steel hardware. For these improvements on your boat, contact Chicago Marine Canvas.