Specialty Fabrics Review December 2020 - 28

TRIMMING

If cost is an issue for the
fabricator, we'll recommend
something that's a woven
acrylic braid or centerfold
binding. But the more
expensive bindings are folded
[two-edge turned], have a
little more body, give a more
expensive look and give the
edge a stronger feel.
RICK HIRSCH
Manart-Hirsch Co.

Maximizing time for our
fabricators is key. We offer
a wide variety of colors in
welt or piping to help our
customers save time and
be more efficient on the job
when manufacturing their
own welt or piping might
not be an option.

When fabricators aren't able to find the
color they're looking for, they make their
own trimmings, which is a labor-intensive
process. " Making hidem and piping is a
real hassle unless you have an attachment
to make them-and most standard shops
don't have that, " Hirsch says. " That's why
we carry so many color options. "
Whether fabricators make or buy
trimmings, sewing the finishings can be
a time-consuming process. Griffin advises
his students to take their time. " It makes
no sense to invest in the best fabric, the
best thread, the best trimmings, only to
hurry up a job and have a crooked stitch
or a puckered corner, " he says.
Educating the client on options is a
vital part of the process. " We offer the
options, describe the function and purpose
of the embellishment, and have finished
cushion samples of each trimming we
use so a client can visualize the finished
product, " Maisto says. " Then we describe
the manufacturing process so the client
understands the increased labor costs. "

A CHANGING LANDSCAPE
As with all design, trends drive color
selections and marine fabrication is
no different. " Keep in mind-things
change, " Griffin says. " In the '70s we saw
multicolored stripes and panels in boat
seats with piping around every panel.
Today they are solid in color, no piping,
and a single topstitch in an accent color.
" Remember, too, that products change
as well. Just because we have used a
particular fabric, trimming or thread for
years doesn't mean that we should not
always be seeking out new products that
may be a better choice. Being flexible and
remembering that styles change will keep
you on the cutting edge and in demand. "
Sigrid Tornquist is a writer and editor
in Minneapolis, Minn.

WANT MORE? WE HAVE IT!

Search " marine shop " at
www.SpecialtyFabricsReview.com

STEVE DAEGLING
Trivantage

The companies that have
increased their " in-thefield " sales staff are reaping
rewards. Online forums are
another excellent source
for finding products.
RUSS GRIFFIN
Northcoast Marine
Specialties LLC

We always make our own
hidem and welt. It allows
for proper color match or
contrast, and using the same
fabric weight helps avoid
possible seam puckers.
KATHRYN MAISTO, MFC
Fairwinds Canvas LLC

Prefab piping is available in most standard colors; however, many marine fabricators
prefer to make their own accent piping for projects that require custom color and
textures. Photo: Sand Sea & Air Interiors Inc.

28 REVIEW DECEMBER 2020

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Specialty Fabrics Review December 2020

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