Re: HEY upinsmoke-
I'd be happy to share the process and include pictures. I'll post a link here in the near future with ideas, pictures, sources of materials etc. Are you considering a trailering cover or just a mooring cover? My walleye boat has an aluminum gunnel so I was able to put the snaps under the gunnel. This makes the cover roll over the side so there is no way air can get under the cover and billow it up. Since my boat also has a trolling motor (quick release), my cover snaps across the deck just behind the motor. This allows me to cover the boat without removing the troller. For travel though, wind would get under that portion so I have "bra" that covers the bow of the boat and curves under a little to direct air arond and down, and it also protects the bow from sand and other road debris that might be thrown up from the truck. A good cover requires good vinyl which means the backing material must be good quality. Most cheaper vinyl has a skimpy backing material that stretches too much. Good vinyl is thicker and has what I consider more of a felt looking backing. Gives the snaps a little more to hang onto. Snaps are always placed in the hem (the doubled over and double seamed area at the edge of the cover. For material quantity (sold by the linear yard) measure the boat at its widest point and note that dimension. Measure the center line length. Since vinyl is typically 54 (but sometimes 60 inches wide), divide 54 (or 60) into the length to determine the number of pieces you will need. Add the width of each piece to get the total length (in inches) you will need. Divide that number 36 to get the # of yards you'll need. As with any first time project, you will screw up at least one panel so buy at least enough to replace a panel if its cut wrong. If the picture in your post is the boat you are covering, you'll need to be creative to figure the cockpit area but the process is the same. A standard sewing machine using nylon upholstery thread (two spools) and a needle for vinyl or leather will work (buy a pack of five). You'll need a gazillion straight pins to pin the pieces of material together during the sewing process. Buy the type that have the little plastic ball on the end. Easier to push in and remove. A pack of band aids will be needed as you will stick yourself more than once. It may be awhile, but stay tuned. I'll post info.
