Marine Canvas “Makers Space” by Mike Reese

Marine Canvas – Maker’s Space

We are super excited about our latest boat canvas offering! Here is your opportunity to tackle some canvas repair or construction projects using our equipment and larger project areas at the college. We know of no other opportunity in the country that allows you to fix or make marine canvas without a substantial investment in equipment and with a professional canvas fabricator standing by to answer your questions. Here is how it works:

1. By signing up, you reserve your seat and have access to one of our walking foot sewing machines for the day.
2. When the day begins, we’ll take you through the basic operation of the machine. (If you have attended one of our other classes, this step is optional.)
3. Go to work on your project. Our canvas guy, Mike Reese will be around to answer questions and give you advice. That stated, this is your project, and it is up to you to tackle. It is a great time to hone your sewing skills while making your boat more beautiful, safe and reliable!
4. That’s it! Have fun and make something AWESOME!

Important Notes:

• Other than light duty restitching of sails, we are not equipped for large sail repair. This class is designed for boat canvas work only. Contact us is you have questions on if your project is suitable.
• If you want to hone your skills or just get some experience on Sailrite style machines but cannot think of a project to work one, we have found small navigation organizers, equipment covers, companionway hatches and deck hatches as great starter projects.
• Our machines are capable of most marine canvas projects, except for sewing polycarbonate windows (vinyl windows are fine.) Again, sails are outside the scope of this course.
• Since you have only the day to use the machines, plan the project ahead of time and choose tasks that can be done within the day. Our instructor, Mike is willing to chat with you for a brief consultation over the phone for free. Other onsite consulting can be arranged for a small fee to cover his costs.
• If you are repairing existing canvas, make sure it is clean. Dirty canvas can cause damage to the machines.
• We can help you buy raw materials that you will need. Please email us for more information. Otherwise make sure to buy all material for your project. We will provide white V-92 polyester thread and needles for the machines. The rest is up to you.
• Seating is limited. Because you will be reserving equipment, we cannot refund cancellations.

This is an exceptional offer! We sampled costs of having professional marine canvas work and we found many shops will not replace zippers or repair canvas at all. Others had a $300 minimum charge regardless of project because it would take up production time. Others charge $75 to $100 per hour plus materials. Spending $600 – $800 versus our program at a fraction of the cost.

Important note: In order to ensure the best possible results, this class is strictly limited to 8 participants. Sign up early to ensure your seat! We only have 8 machines so every participant has their own machine.

Instructor Bio

Mike is a life-long boater and 30-year veteran of the marine industry. His passion for sailing and powerboating has inspired him to learn as much about boats and marine systems as possible. Mike is a professionally trained Marine Surveyor and Marine Canvas Fabricator. He has seven ABYC Certifications, including Marine Electrical, Corrosion, Systems, Diesel Engines, AC/Refrigeration, and more. In previous roles, Mike has managed sailboat rigging shops and installed & serviced marine systems. He has also worked for many of the industry’s premier manufacturers and suppliers of heating systems, marine hardware, running gear components, and propellers. When not helping his clients, Mike and his wife Linda can be found cruising in Northwest waters on their 40-foot trawler or racing around the buoys on their 30-foot sailboat.

Mike loves sharing his knowledge and passion for boats and hope