Chicago – Illinois
United States
From Excellence to Distinction: An Award-Winning Stamoid Top Installation
ABOUT
The owner of a 1999 Bluewater 68 Coastal Cruiser sought a permanent top that offered durable weather protection while maintaining a clean, polished look. Measuring 17 by 12 feet, the large structure required careful engineering to ensure strength and long-term performance.
CUSTOM ENGINEERING FOR CLEAN, LONG-LASTING PROTECTION
Chicago Marine Canvas fabricated a custom frame from Schedule 40 aluminum tubing—2-inch tubing for the primary structure and 1½-inch tubing for cross supports—welded in-house to minimize flex across the wide span. The cover was made from Serge Ferrari Group’s Stamoid Top in Pearl Grey, with double-stitched, seam-taped joins for watertight protection and hook-and-loop flaps to secure the top during high winds. The banded-style top was mounted using a stainless-steel rub rail system. During installation, the fabric was carefully stretched and tensioned using tie lines before the rub rail trim was installed and edges finished for a clean, seamless appearance.
We needed a fabric that could perform on a very large span while maintaining a clean, yacht-quality appearance. From a fabrication standpoint, Stamoid Top works exceptionally well in the shop. We’re always looking for materials that allow us to deliver both performance and craftsmanship. Serge Ferrari’s Stamoid Top played an important role in the success of this project.
RESULTS & RECOGNITION: A STANDOUT AWARD-WINNING TOP
Serge Ferrari’s Stamoid Top proved ideal. Its refined finish complements the yacht’s lines, provides excellent UV resistance, blocks harsh sunlight, and maintains long-term appearance. From a fabrication standpoint, it patterns accurately, sews cleanly, and produces crisp seams, resulting in a polished final installation that is easy to maintain on the water.
The project earned an Award of Excellence from the Marine Fabricators Association in the Tops and Sunflys category, recognizing the craftsmanship and technical precision behind the installation. It was further honored with the MFA Award of Distinction, the highest recognition presented, selected from among all category winners as the standout project of the competition.
List of Contributors
- Installer & Engineering Support: Chicago Marine Canvas
- Copyright: Chicago Marine Canvas
