[GregT]

My boat came with the original 2001 Mariah snap covers which I thought was cool - until I tried to put them on. Those old, vinyl/canvas heavy tops had shrunk badly and no way they were going to fit. Tried to stretch them and still not close. Got a quote form a local upholstery shop for $3500 or so for both custom covers - yikes!

So here was the thought - learn to sew and make my own. After watching a ton of Youtube videos, like from Sailrite and EZ One where they make it look pretty easy, I decided to try it. Researched sewing machines and bought one from a high school kid in sewing class. Researched materials I would need mostly from Sailrite, bought thread, needles, etc. Researched materials to use, decided on Top Notch 9 fabric. Did some measuring and followed the process used by EZ One and started with the bow cover. That turned out good, so took on the rear cover in same manner. A bit more difficult working with so much materials all over the kitchen table but finished the final stitching over the weekend. Still need to go back and add some reinforcement material under the rub areas like along the windshield. Bought a kit to add snaps which was easier than anticipated also. Added a few vents in the design for cooling in this Texas heat.

Overall - great project to try, not overly difficult for a beginner
Give myself an A for overall completion - fits great
Give myself a C for stitching appearance - kudos to anyone who can sew a straight line

I estimate my total cost for everything to be right at $800, including a $95 used sewing machine.

I'm glad to share my lessons learned with anyone else if interested.

Having issues uploading pics again with the site - will post pics as soon as I can get it working again.

[GregT]

Had to resize to get them to upload finally.

[GregT]

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