Marine Fabricators Association 2024 Fabrication Excellence Award

325-Dufour-Dodger-Connector-BiminiChicago Marine Canvas was recognized during the 2024 Fabrication Excellence Awards, a competition celebrating design excellence in marine fabric applications. The awards ceremony took place during the Marine Fabricators Conference held January 25-27, 2024. Chicago Marine Canvas received an Outstanding Achievement award for its Woody Wants a New Dodger project. The project was recognized in the competition’s Sailboat Dodgers & Biminis category. 

325-Dufour-Mast-WindowMFA received a total of 104 entries submitted in 11 categories in this year’s competition. Winners were selected based on complexity, design, workmanship, uniqueness and function. Judges were certified Master Fabric Craftsman professionals or professionals with 10+ years of experience who were chosen for their knowledge in a particular product area.

325-Dufour-Dodger-InteriorAll entries receive prominent recognition at the Marine Fabricators Conference. Entrants receive additional publicity through coverage in the Marine Fabricator and winners not only receive additional
coverage in the Marine Fabricator but also on the MFA website and in future MFA marketing material.

325-Dufour-Dodger-StarboardThe goal of the awards is to promote awareness of the marine fabrics used in marine products and applications ranging in size and type.

profileThe Fabrication Excellence Awards is a competition sponsored by MFA, a division of Advanced Textiles
Association (ATA), a not-for-profit trade association whose over 1,500-member companies represent the international specialty fabrics and technical textiles marketplace.

Marine Fabricators Association 2023 Regional Great Lakes Conference

Chicago Marine Canvas welcomes over 75 fabricators and vendors to the 2023 Marine Fabricators Association Midwest Regional Conference
Chicago Marine Canvas welcomes over 75 fabricators and vendors to the 2023 Marine Fabricators Association Midwest Regional Conference

On Friday November 17, 2023, Marine Fabricators Association 2023 Regional Great Lakes Conference was hosted at Chicago Marine Canvas. Marine Fabricators Association members from across the country and different parts of the world including, New Zealand and Canada, traveled to the Windy City to be part of the two-day event being held at Chicago Marine Canvas. Fellow business owners, members of the MFA board, vendors, marine sewers and upholsters, and people wanting to learn more about the marine fabrication industry made up the list of attendees for the 2023 MFA Great Lakes Regional Workshop.

Everyone that attended this event did so for various reasons, maybe to learn something new, to network, to share business and product information, to exchange and expand their skills, or simply to be in the same space as like-minded business owners and partners.  Regardless of the reasons, Chicago Marine Canvas worked hard to ensure that there was something for everyone to take home with them by covering topics like:

  • Enclosures
  • Shop Safety 101
  • Shop Trucks
  • Sewing Machine and Cutting Tables Demonstrations
  • Upholstery

Enclosures

Chicago Marine Canvas owner Vince Innocenzi shows how to measure an enclosure with a Prodim Proliner

Using top of the line technology, Chicago Marine Canvas demonstrated how they take digital 3D patterns, design their covers in CAD software and fit their enclosures on a 1:1 scale frame. Not only that but they also fabricated windows from polycarbonate, pressed polished and rolled glass materials, discussing, and providing various examples of each one along the way.  Chicago Marine Canvas showed their sewing processes and fitting of the bimini top with different types of window panels.

Shop Safety 101

Shop Safety 101

We covered some common sense practices in the workplace, such as how work with sharp tools, equipment, potent chemicals, very loud noises, and other hazards, discussing the basic steps that every shop can take to ensure a safe workspace.  One key takeaway from the Shop Safety 101 discussion that surprised many fellow marine fabrication business owners, was the discussion of ototoxicants, certain chemicals that may cause hearing loss through exposure. This goes to show that there’s always something essential to learn in the marine fabrication industry.

Shop Trucks

Marine Tops Unlimited shop truck
Marine Tops Unlimited shop truck

Chicago Marine Canvas partnered up with Steve Griffith from Marine Tops Unlimited to show off their two different shop trucks. All the attendees were able to learn some of the tricks of the trade that both Chicago Marine Canvas and Marine Tops Unlimited use while they are on the road. Some of these cool features include custom made storage and drawers that Chicago Marine Canvas installed in their shop truck to ensure that they always have a secure spot for all their tools and equipment while they are on the road. 

On the other hand, Marine Tops Unlimited showed off their sewing machine along with the bits of fabrics and different kinds of thread that they keep on board for any quick and easy last-minute adjustments. Being able to see the different kinds of features from two different shop trucks, allowed the attendees of the MFA Great Lakes Regional Workshop to start thinking about how they too can start rolling in style by getting or modifying their shop trucks, in whichever way best meets their own marine fabrication industry needs when they are on the road.

Sewing Machine and Cutting Tables Demonstrations

Showing off our Double Needle Juki sewing machine and how it applies to upholstery projects

By continuing with a hands-on-approach, Chicago Marine Canvas displayed how they use a variety of sewing machines such as straight stitch, double needle, long arm, embroidery, and many other specialty sewing machines as well. There were a few brave attendees that dared to try out an unfamiliar sewing machine for themselves and a few other lucky ones were able to snag a custom keychain made by one of the Chicago Marine Canvas team members.

Almost 100 years old, this Singer sewing machine is still in use
Almost 100 years old, this Singer sewing machine is still in use

Team members demonstrated their Prosail and Gerber automated fabric cutting tables which are used in their production process. The tables have the capability of not only cutting a variety of windows but also the polycarbonate, Strataglass and rolled eisenglass used on boat windows.

Upholstery  

An in-depth conversation about reupholstering commonly found seats for Sea Ray Sundancers
An in-depth conversation about reupholstering commonly found seats for Sea Ray Sundancers

The conference concluded with an in depth look at the process of reupholstering seats on a Sea Ray Sundancer. Chicago Marine Canvas explained the steps taken to prepare, pattern and upholster some of the common seats found on cruiser style boats. One of the more time-consuming steps in the process is foam preparation which is the foundation of any upholstered piece. The group discussed the many different ways to achieve a great looking cushion at the end.

Special Thanks

Chicago Marine Canvas showcasing their Prosail automated fabric cutting table
Chicago Marine Canvas showcasing their Prosail automated fabric cutting table

Chicago Marine Canvas wants to thank all of those that attended. It was great to see old friends and make some new ones too! We look forward to collaborating with everyone at the national convention in January.  This event wouldn’t have been possible without the help of the Chicago Marine Canvas team, the members of the MFA board, and everyone else who attended and made the 2023 MFA Great Lakes Regional Workshop a memorable one.  Chicago Marine Canvas would like to extend a special thanks to all the vendors and sponsors of the event including:

  • AP Consulting and Technical Services
  • Continental
  • Ennis Fabrics
  • Fasnap
  • Herculite Products Inc.
  • Keyston Bros
  • Marlen Textiles
  • Miami Corporation
  • Sattler Corp.
  • Serge Ferrari Group
  • Sunbrella
  • Trivantage
  • WeatherMAX Performance Fabrics
  • Xtreme Seal

Sunbrella Marine Canvas & Upholstery Cleaners

Sunbrella Marine Canvas and Upholstery

It’s no secret that owning a boat has both its pros and cons but if you’re here you know that the pros heavily outweigh the cons. Whether you’re an established boat owner or a new one, owning a boat is a significant investment which is why you need to protect this investment. To get the most out of your boat, you need to treat your boat and all its components with great care and attention so that it not only performs well but also looks good for years to come. One of the best ways to ensure that your boat is in tip-top shape and ready to go is by keeping up with the cleanliness of it.

At Chicago Marine Canvas we work with many different companies and vendors to provide you with top notch results when you decide to start a new boating project or repair with us. However, when it comes to custom marine canvas covers and upholstery or re-upholstery, Sunbrella is the number one marine grade fabric we recommend and use due to its long-lasting, high quality, unparalleled quality and performance. Now, Sunbrella has released three brand new products specially formulated for Sunbrella to clean, extract, and restore your Sunbrella marine canvas and upholstery, all which will be available at Chicago Marine Canvas.

Sunbrella Clean Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner 16-oz Trigger SprayClean

Many times, customers reach out to us at Chicago Marine Canvas asking what they can use to clean their custom Sunbrella marine canvas covers and upholstery. When repairs are dropped off at the shop, it’s common to see dirt and grime from everyday use. Similarly, when we go out to boats to take measurements and do installations for new projects, we’ll typically encounter messes from food, drinks, and pets which is to be expected and completely normal. However, the question remains – what can you safely use to clean these common spills and messes on your Sunbrella marine canvas and upholstery?

The answer is Sunbrella Clean Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner. This is your go-to multi-purpose cleaner and it comes in a 16-oz. trigger spray bottle that works great on everyday dirt, grime, spills, and water-based stains. All you do is remove excess liquid and debris from any stain before cleaning. Then, spray a light mist evenly over soiled areas and gently agitate with a soft bristle brush before wiping with a damp cloth or rinsing thoroughly. Repeat this as needed and finish off by blotting any excess water remaining and air dry.

Sunbrella Extract Oil Based Stain RemoverExtract

Although Sunbrella Clean Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner powers through spills and stains to safely clean and brighten all Sunbrella fabrics, it works best on water-based stains and newer, everyday spills. Oftentimes, existing customers will come back to Chicago Marine Canvas to get a repair done or start a new project and they’ll have older, set in stains in their Sunbrella Marine canvas or Sunbrella Marine upholstery and express that they can’t find anything to remove these stubborn stains. 

This does not mean that they’ll have to replace their Sunbrella Marine canvas or upholstery altogether thanks to the Sunbrella Extract Oil Based Stain Remover. Sunbrella Extract Oil Based Stain Remover draws out the toughest, most set-in grease and oil-based stains for quick and easy removal. This product comes in a 5-oz. spray can and works with an easy two-step process for quick removal.

RestoreSunbrella Restore Fabric Protector & Repellent 16-oz Trigger Spray

Not only does Sunbrella offer the Sunbrella Clean Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner for every day, water-based stains, and the Sunbrella Extract Oil Based Stain Remover for tougher, set-in oil-based stains, they also offer a product that will help protect and restore all your Sunbrella marine canvas and upholstery. Sunbrella Restore Fabric Protector and Repellent adds an invisible layer of protection and restores water repellency without impacting the look or feel of your Sunbrella marine canvas and upholstery. Sunbrella Restore Fabric Protector and Repellent comes in a 16-oz. trigger spray bottle that is ideal for cleaning upholstery, cushions, fabric awnings, boat covers, bimini tops, canvas, and other water-safe Sunbrella fabrics.

All you do is spray Sunbrella Restore Fabric Protector and Repellent directly onto clean, dry fabric until evenly saturated, overlapping in a crisscross pattern and let it dry, without oversaturating. Cure the treated material 12-24 hours depending on the temperature and protect the Sunbrella fabric from rain or dew until it is fully cured. If you’re still unsure about what Sunbrella cleaning product to use on your Sunbrella marine canvas and upholstery, please refer the Sunbrella Cleaning Guide, where you can find both at-home solutions and Sunbrella solutions for anything from pesky bird droppings, coffee spills (we’ve all been there!), stains from cosmetic products, and not so fun ones like vomit and rust. 

Process of a Custom Canvas

The Process

  1. After receiving all of the customers information, project details and deposit, we are able to start the process of creating their canvas. The first thing we do in our process is take measurements using our digitized canvas measuring system. This measuring system is a quick and efficient way to make a template of the boat without needing the actual boat or old canvas at our shop.
  2. After measuring the boat, we use the measurements to create the digital template on the computer. From there we are then able to start cutting the fabrics using an automated fabric cutting table. Once the fabric is cut the seamstresses get to work sewing it all together, and the hardware is added.
  3. Now that the project is complete our team installs the canvas onto the boat. If necessary, the canvas may be brought back for minor adjustments. It’s as simple as that!

DIGITAL MEASURING

Chicago Marine Canvas uses the most advanced measuring and manufacturing processes available to the industry today. Our digitized canvas measuring process uses laser technology that gives us pinpoint accurate dimensions. Which then translates to a 3D template of your boat and new cover.

This not only gives you a perfectly tight boat canvas, but it also reduces our manufacturing time by up to 80% which saves you money.

We have used this process for full enclosures, cockpit covers, framing upholstery (new and reupholster), eisenglass window replacement, carpeting and much more. Please view at some recent projects we’ve worked on to see the results.

Our Marine Fabricator Magazine Article

Recently, we got the privilege to be published in the Marine Fabricator Magazine about our new shop space!

“Adjusting to a Bigger Shop” discusses the challenges and benefits we faced when transitioning to a larger workspace here at Chicago Marine Canvas. Emphasizing the importance of planning and organizing when expanding, we had some considerations to think about. Workflow optimization, equipment upgrades, and employee training, all had to be thought of. When upgrading the number of floors, we are also upgrading our productivity too!

Click here to read it in full!

The magazine article highlights the real-life experiences of our fabricators who have successfully adjusted to a larger shop. Showcasing the positive impact it has on productivity, efficiency, and the ability to take on larger projects, our new shop has made many improvements. Ultimately, the article encourages other fabricators to carefully assess their needs and develop a strategic plan when transitioning to a bigger shop. It has led to significant growth opportunities for us and it can for you too!

Custom Embroidery

Close-Up of Embroidered Logo

Chicago Marine Canvas offers custom embroidery for all of your boating needs. We can embroider on upholster, canvas and other items. All we need is a picture of your boat name or design and let our experts take it from there.

What is embroidery? Embroidery is a way to decorate fabric using thread and a machine similar to a sewing machine. Since the designs are custom, we are able to add any words or images that you want making your boat more personalized. We have many color options of thread to perfectly match your design. And no design is too simple or too complicated. Embroidered designs are highly durable and should last a lifetime. It can withstand pressure, damage, and doesn’t fade. Which is perfect to withstand wear and tear that may occur on a boat, or when washing.

What can I embroider? Almost any fabric project can be personalized using embroidery. Such as boarding mats, that can be placed down moments before a guest boards and be easily cleaned at the end of the day. Another popular option is boat chairs, where people often put a unique design. We can also embroidery on a wide range of hats, sweatshirts, towels, polos, activewear and everything and anything apparel. This is a great way to show off your personal brand while boating!

Please contact us if you have any questions about embroidery or want to get started on your own customized project.

 

 

Custom Embroidered Boat Chair
Custom Embroidered Boat Chair w/ Boat Logo

Benefits on Non-Slip Fabrics for Marine Use

Non-Slip Custom Embroidered Boarding Mat

Chicago Marine Canvas offers one-of-a-kind fiberglass friendly non-slip fabrics which can be used on anything, you name it! There are many projects that can be done using non-slip fabrics. Such as non-slip custom embroidered boarding mats and non-slip cushion bottoms.

Non-slip fabrics are easy to put into place and remove. Which is perfect for a quick and temporary reusable solution. Or to move and use throughout the boat over time. Since there is no drilling into the fiberglass, the non-slip material can be placed on any surface with ease and no leftover damage.

Non-slip materials also help keep your boat clean when guest board your luxury yacht. Boarding mats can be placed down moments before a guest boards and be easily cleaned at the end of the day. Like the name states, the non-slip mats will keep people from slipping while keeping the boat nice and clean.

Any project, such as the boarding mat, can be embroidered with a personal custom design using our embroidering machine. Which adds a personal branded touch to any boat.

Non-Slip Cushion Bottom

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chicago Marine Canvas Wins Twin 2019 Outstanding Achievement Awards

28' Skater Speedboat - Exterior Upholstery by Chicago Marine Canvas
58' Bayliner Pilothouse - Canvas Enclosure by Chicago Marine Canvas
58′ Bayliner Pilothouse – Canvas Enclosure

(Long Beach, CA – Jan. 12, 2019) – Chicago Marine Canvas was recognized with the 2019 Fabrication Excellence Awards for design excellence in marine fabric applications, that took place Jan. 12th at the 2019 Marine Fabricators Conference, at the Queen Mary in Long Beach, CA.

Chicago Marine Canvas received two Awards of Excellence.   The first for it’s The Labor Day Weekend Show project which was recognized in the competition’s soft enclosures category.  The second for A “Skater” with Style in the exterior upholstery category.  

MFA received a total of 90 entries submitted in 9 categories in this year’s competition. Winners were selected based on complexity, design, workmanship, uniqueness and function. Judges were certified Master Fabric Craftsman professionals who were chosen for their knowledge in a particular product area.

28' Skater Boat - Captain Chair
28′ Skater Boat – Captain Chair

All entries receive prominent recognition at the Marine Fabricators Conference. Entrants receive additional publicity through coverage in the Marine Fabricator and winners not only receive additional coverage in the Marine Fabricatorbut also on the MFA website and in future MFA marketing material.

The goal of the awards is to promote awareness of the marine fabrics used in marine products and applications ranging in size and type.

The Fabrication Excellence Awards is a competition sponsored by MFA, a division of the Industrial Fabrics Association International, a not-for-profit trade association whose over 1,500-member companies represent the international specialty fabrics and technical textiles marketplace.

58' Bayliner Pilothouse Bridge - Canvas Enclosure by Chicago Marine Canvas
58′ Bayliner Pilothouse Bridge

International Achievement Award

2017 International Achievement Award Powerboat Rigid Enclosures Chicago Marine Canvas

NEWS RELEASE

           Contact: Chicago Marine Canvas
www.chicagomarinecanvas.com
(312)-487-1133

 

Chicago Marine Canvas Wins 2017 International Achievement Award

 

(New Orleans, LA – Sept. 28, 2017) – Chicago Marine Canvas, Chicago, Illinois, was recognized with the 2017 International Achievement Award (IAA) for design excellence in specialty fabrics applications.

 

Chicago Marine Canvas received an Award of Excellence for its Blarney Island: Keeping the Customers Warm project. The project was recognized in the competition’s Powerboat-Rigid Enclosures category.

 

For seven decades, IAA has recognized excellence in design and innovation, highlighting truly spectacular work in the specialty fabrics and technical textiles industry. The International Achievement Awards competition is sponsored by IFAI, a not-for-profit trade association who’s over 1,600 member companies represent the growing international specialty fabrics and technical textiles marketplace.

 

IFAI received a total of 235 entries from 11 countries that were submitted for 42 categories in this year’s competition. Winners were selected based on complexity, design, workmanship, uniqueness and function. Judges included industry experts, editors, architects, educators and design professionals who were chosen for their knowledge in a particular field of study or product area.

 

All entries receive prominent recognition at the IFAI Expo, the largest specialty fabrics tradeshow in the Americas. Winners receive additional publicity through coverage in IFAI magazines and press releases distributed to media professionals.  

 

For photos and a detailed project description, visit https://iaa.ifai.com/awards/177746/.

 

2017 International Achievement Award Powerboat Rigid Enclosures Chicago Marine Canvas

We aren’t your typical canvas shop. Here at Chicago Marine Canvas we use lots of labor-saving, cost-effective tools! For all of our jobs we use our 3d measuring device to help save us time and you money. We do all custom cockpit covers, full enclosures, upholstery work, canvas repairs, zipper replacements, window replacements and vinyl flooring. After we gather our measurements, we go back to the office and pop on the computer and start our design process using our CAD (Computer-Aided Design) program. Here we can easily customize your cover adding windows, zippers and fasteners. Our CAD program takes into consideration the relaxation of the fabric and other variables which would take days, and multiple trips out to your boat to figure out manually. At the end of your experience with us, your cover will fit your boat perfectly. We promise to deliver these solutions on time and within budget!

 

We work on Sea Ray, Rinker, Regal, Tiara, Maxum, Four Winns, Baja, Cruisers Yatchs, Wellcraft boats and more!!

 

Need a new cover? Want all of the upholstery redone on your boat? Is your canvas in great shape but your windows aren’t? Do you have a few zippers falling off of your cover? Bimini in need of restitching? Give us a call! 312-487-1133

Chicago Marine Canvas Wins 2017 Award of Excellence

 Chicago Marine Canvas wins 2017 Award of Excellence

(Jacksonville, Fla. – Jan. 21, 2017) –  Chicago Marine Canvas was recognized with the 2017 Fabrication Excellence Awards for design excellence in marine fabric applications, that took place Jan. 21 at the 2017 Marine Fabricators Conference, at the Jacksonville Marriott Suites in Jacksonville, Fla.

Chicago Marine Canvas received an Award of Excellence for its Blarney Island – Keeping the Customers Warm project. The project was recognized in the competition’s Powerboat – Rigid Enclosures category.

MFA received a total of 82 entries submitted in 9 categories in this year’s competition. Winners were selected based on complexity, design, workmanship, uniqueness and function. Judges were certified Master Fabric Craftsman professionals who were chosen for their knowledge in a particular product area.

All entries receive prominent recognition at the Marine Fabricators Conference. Entrants receive additional publicity through coverage in the Marine Fabricator and winners not only receive additional coverage in the Marine Fabricator but also on the MFA website and in future MFA marketing material.

The goal of the awards is to promote awareness of the marine fabrics used in marine products and applications ranging in size and type.

The Fabrication Excellence Awards is a competition sponsored by MFA, a division of the Industrial Fabrics Association International, a not-for-profit trade association whose over 1,500 member companies represent the international specialty fabrics and technical textiles marketplace.