Canvas Top

One of the saddest things about the boat was the old canvas top. The aluminum frame was bent from winters of accumulated snow. The canvas material was faded and torn and discolored. It was a depressing mess. This shot of Linton and Scott actually makes it look better than it was, although it's probably just because your eyes are dazzled by these two great-looking guys!















So even though the restoration wouldn't be done this summer, we thought we'd better get a new top right away. Rain or shine, a top makes all the difference when it comes to me being comfortable in Puget Sound (bald guys, you know - we always know when it's raining.)

We decided to use L & T Canvas in La Conner. Les seemed to appreciate the Skagits, and we wanted to do at least some of the work locally. And they had time to get the job done by early summer; we didn't want the top to hold us up once we got the new engine in place.

Les strongly suggested using stainless for the framework, and though it was quite a bit more expensive, we're glad we made the decision. It just seems more nautical and professional looking, and it's really stout.















We were surprised when we saw the side curtains. They seemed, well, too big. But once you're under the top it's easy to imagine boating in a blustery cold northwest day and really enjoying the extra protection. With the windows in place it feels like the boat got an extra cabin.















Fran opted for blue trim on the windows. We thought it would give the whole job a more "50s" look. We still haven't decided on a new blue color for the hull, but we think this steely blue Sunbrella material will probably go with it nicely.

Here'a a close-up. Notice that L&T has already sewn in the zipper for the back canvas. That will come next year when we've done whatever we're going to do with the cockpit area seating.