This collection of entries submitted over the years is a work in progress and will continue to grow as time goes on. Do you have a tool, tip or trick that makes your day easier or your business more efficient? Do you want to win some great prizes and make the whole industry a little better? Take a few moments to enter it in the next round of the Tools, Tips and Tricks competition! Click here for more details.

Submissions from previous years

20 Volt 2-in-1 Switchdriver (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: This is a WORK 20 volt Switchdriver. 2-in-1 Drill and Driver. This cordless drill driver holds two bits simultaneously on a rotating chuck so you can get your work done twice as fast with half the hassle. No more two separate drills to do one job. Just give the head a quick twist and switch from drilling to driving in an instant. Drilling a pilot hole then driving a screw just got much easier.

3D Printed Kedar Welt Cutter (video)

Submitted by Charleton’s Marine Canvas: 3D printed kedar welt cutter. This tool is designed to cut down the tab on the kedar welt to 3/8 inches.

3D Printed Rack for Organizing (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: We had a mess of grommet dies and hold punches, we first tried to organize them with closed cell foam. That was step in the right direction and inspired the next step. Our CAD department designed a rack system in Rhino and used our 3D printer to put it all together.

3D Printed Roll Up Strap Kit (video)

Submitted by Charlton’s Marine Canvas: 3D printed Roll up strap kit. Lift The Dot Punch guide and roll up strap end punch.

5 Star Google Reviews (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: Here is a tip on how to get a 5 Star Google review for your business every time.

Acrylic PhotoModeler Targets

Submitted by Canvasea Interiors, Inc.: It’s always a challenge using paper printed PhotoModeler targets to template a boat for marine canvas project. Paper is light and not waterproof. To solve this problem, we used a matte industrial grade acrylic-based material and engraved the coded target on it. The material is UV-resistant, fully waterproof, rigid, easy to clean, durable and long lasting. We also created varies shapes of target system to save time, and improve efficiency when processing the images in the program.

+ Paired target: Place two single targets on the surface at once to save time when preparing the surface for photographs
+ Paired Target Set with Offset Point: Save time and let the software to easily identify the location precisely and accurately
+ Paired Target Set with Offset Dot Snap Fastener: Save time and let the software to identify the location of the fasteners easier and quicker
+ Paired Target Set with Offset Common Sense Fastener: Save time and let the software to identify the location of the fasteners easier and quicker
*All paired targets can also be used as a scale to identify distance between two single targets.
+ Single target in square shape and round shape
+ Letter sheet

Adhesive Hooks (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: Things change quickly as we look for continuous improvements around the shop, fixing what bugs us. We need these changes to be smooth and painless. In doing so, we have used an adhesive hook and loop to allow us to more quickly adapt and change as we find new, better ways of organizing things.

Adjustable Frame for Patterning/Measuring

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: These adjustable straps are used to quickly tension and measure frames when patterning tops or enclosures. They snap on easily using DOT snaps that stay secure until intentionally released, and each strap includes a slider to quickly increase or reduce tension. Multiple strap lengths are made using different colors of webbing, with overlapping size ranges to cover various gaps between bows, arches, or frame components. Small keder-welt adapters with DOT snaps allow the straps to be used in track systems as well. This setup makes it easy to pre-tension frames, keep them symmetrical, and prepare accurately for Proliner work or traditional patterning.

Air Hose at Workstations

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: Installing an air hose at every workstation enhances efficiency and cleanliness in marine fabrication shops. These conveniently placed air hoses make it easy to quickly clean sewing machines, tables and work areas, ensuring a debris-free environment while reducing equipment wear. By eliminating the need for a single shop-wide hose, this setup prevents tripping hazards and saves time spent searching for or untangling hoses. With an air hose always within arm’s reach, fabricators can maintain a tidy workspace without leaving their stations, boosting productivity and creating a safer, more organized shop floor.

Aluminum Flashing for T-Nuts

Submitted by Southern Stitch Canvas & Upholstery, LLC.: When T-Nuts are not setting securely in 1/4-inch boards, use aluminum flashing to keep T-Nuts in place. Nothing worse than installing finished cushions and it pops loose when bolting up!

Awards Poster Display Frames

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: If a project is strong enough to submit for an MFA or ATA award, it’s worth showing to your customers as well. After each MFA Conference, we collect our award submission posters and bring them back to the shop. We frame them using inexpensive frames purchased online and display them throughout the showroom, bathrooms, and other customer-visible areas. The framed posters can also be easily taken off the wall and used at boat shows or events. This is a simple, low-cost way to professionally showcase your best work, alongside any plaques or awards your shop has received.

Bailing Bucket

Submitted by Paul’s Custom Canvas, Inc.: We attached an old coffee can to a fiberglass baton to allow us to bail the water out of covers before we uncover the boat or bring it in our building to work on. Additional photo.

Bendarc to Minimize Twist (video)

Submitted by In Stitches Customs: We ordered a mirrored bending setup from Bendarc and mounted it to an adjustable/sliding mounting so we can bend both legs of a bimini at once. It minimizes twist and saves considerable time.

Best Stapler for Speed and any Fabric Thickness without Jamming (video)

Submitted by Nanaimo Canvas: For less than $20 the Fiskars Craft Stapler will easily go through 10 layers of acrylic fabric.

“Block” CAD Shortcut (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The “Block” CAD Shortcut is an ingenious trick to simplify and speed up the design process in CAD software like Rhino. Blocks are pre-saved design elements, such as cleat flaps for boat covers, that can be reused across multiple projects with a single click. Instead of redrawing common features from scratch, you simply insert the block—saving significant time and effort. These blocks are universal, meaning they save across all projects, ensuring consistency and eliminating repetitive tasks. Setting up a block is as simple as drawing the element once and saving it, making it an invaluable tool for efficiency and accuracy in design work.

Bimini Top Jig (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: Sometimes when working on a bimini top frame, you just need the bimini top and not the entire boat.
We use 2- to 4-inch by 4-inch by 12-foot pressure-treated pine timber. You can mount pad eyes and deck hinges wherever you need to, to fit any bimini top frame. Now you are on the ground and not climbing in and out of a boat all day. And because you don’t have the boat in your shop, you have more shop space for other projects.

Bimini Top Shop Light (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: This is a tip if you need to add extra lighting to a sewing station. We took a broken 7/8″ stainless steel bimini top bow, turned it on it’s side, attached it to the sewing table and add a fluorescent light fixture.

Binding Attachment (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: This homemade Binding Attachment is a versatile tool that simplifies the process of attaching binding to your projects. Designed for effortless installation, it clicks onto your sewing machine without the need for screws—saving time and hassle during setup. This attachment is available for both the right and left sides, accommodating various sewing machine configurations and user preferences. By streamlining the binding process and enhancing versatility, this tool ensures precision, reduces setup time and makes binding more efficient and user-friendly.

Binding Seam Testing (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The Binding Seam Testing Tip is a simple yet highly effective way to ensure quality after sewing binding onto fabric. Sometimes the stitching may miss the fabric, leaving gaps that compromise durability. To check for any missed spots, take a flathead screwdriver and gently run it along the edge of the binding. This quick test highlights any areas where the binding isn’t securely attached, allowing you to fix them immediately. This straightforward method ensures a professional finish and prevents issues down the line, saving time and rework.

Binding Loop Board/Screw

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: This simple yet effective tool ensures consistent binding loop lengths every time, featuring a board with a screw and a solid red line positioned 3 inches below it. To use, wrap the binding around the screw, align the end with the red line and sew it in place. This straightforward method eliminates guesswork, speeds up production and guarantees uniform results—enhancing quality and reducing material waste. By standardizing this repetitive task, the guide streamlines workflow and ensures professional results with minimal effort.

Binding Stool (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: We found a way to make make binding a bit more smooth by adding a piece of tubing to our stool attached with a lanyard and a pull pin for quick change out. The binding can come straight up through our legs.

Bobbin Counter (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: Growing your business means knowing your cost. Even bobbins matter. Here is how we track what we have used, so our inventory and costs are accurate. We used our 3D printer and some wooden dowels to make these.

Bobbin Marking Seam Allowance

Submitted by Southern Stitch Canvas & Upholstery, LLC.: Super glue a full bobbin, so you have a hard edge to roll the bobbin around the edge of your patten for a quick seam allowance add. Time is money! Additional photo.

Bolt Dip (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: Our “Bolt Dip” makes it super easy to put threadlocker on bolts. We put a piece of foam in a small tub and soak it with threadlocker. Then we just dip the bolt into the foam, and the bolt gets the right amount every time, and it saves a lot of time when putting hardware together. Additional photo.

CAD Template (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: An overview of our CAD template files and blocks inside the files. These help us be more consistent, more detailed and save us lots of time—at least two seconds faster.

CAD Training Documents (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: We spent time documenting our CAD process to better help us repeat what we do as well as train new team members.

Carpet Snap Trick (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: You are installing snap caps in snap-in carpet, and you need to align the new cap perfectly with the snap base. But without X-ray vision, it’s impossible to see where to punch your snap cap hole. All you need is some white chalk left over from your elementary school days. Place some chalk on top of the snap base, press down the carpet and now magically a perfect chalk circle outline appears on the bottom of the carpet. Now you know exactly where to place the snap cap hole. It’s elementary, my dear Watson.

Clear Vinyl Storage

Submitted by Paul’s Custom Canvas: We struggled with where to our clear vinyl sheets. We built a shelf on wheels that slides under our main table. Easy access without taking up any valuable table space!

Color Coding System (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: To speed up counting of commonly used and produced components, we have set up a color coding system.

Compact Table Top Crownarc with Leg Roller Skates

Submitted by SALTY BUOY Marine Canvas Inc.: This compact table-top setup turns a traditionally awkward crowning process into a stable, operator-friendly operation. The Crownarc is mounted to a plywood base (½” and ¾” laminated and notched for hardware) so it sits flat on a worktable, positioning the tubing about 2″ above the surface and aligned with a Bendarc. Clamp small roller skates onto each Crownarc leg and the tubing stays locked in plane while the tool glides smoothly across the table. The result is smooth, consistent crowns without wall-mounting, floor work, or extra hands—an effective solution for shops with limited space that still need precise, repeatable results.

Commercial Flat Mop Kit

Submitted by Kodiak Canvas Company LLC: This is a cleaning tip. I now quickly and efficiently clean the layout tables and get into the far corners using the Rubbermaid Commercial Flat Mop Kit with Microfiber pads. It is way stronger than the ones sold for home use and extends easily. It’s a small tip, but makes it so much easier to reduce the fiber buildup from thread and fabric dust.

Computer and Cutting Table Organization

Submitted by Signature CanvasMakers LLC: Using a combination of foam and 3D printing, we are able to maximize space for our digital tools and keep things neat and organized.

Countersink Drill Bit – Phillips Head Screwdriver (video)

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: This is an all-in-one countersink drill bit and Phillips head screw driver that has a quick release and allows you to flip the head of the bit back and forth between the two. The #10 1/8-inch bit works perfectly for drilling a hole into fiberglass and using the countersink to remove a small amount of gel coat to ensure the screw stud is only fastened into the fiberglass and not the gel coat layer. Once you drill the hole, you slide the locking collar forward and quickly flip the bit around to the Phillips head side to install the screw stud. It is extremely quick and easy and saves a ton of time when you need to install screw into fiberglass. You can purchase new bits and the countersink collar when they start to dull.

Creating Covers Using Convex Hulls (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: When you are making a cockpit cover and need to keep the material fastened in place. All you need is a few suction cups with attached bungees. Make a small cut in the material, fasten the suction cups and then place on the windshield. Now your material is locked down and ready to be marked.

Creative Uses for Scrap Material

Submitted by Oyster Creek Canvas: Here are just some ideas for using extra scrap. Tote bag with custom screen printed shop logo from scrap canvas and webbing. Decorative planter/container with waterproof liner and base. Remnant bin for local DIYers to get creative. Tool belt/holsters for around the shop convenience.

Crocodile Clips

Submitted by Rick’s Custom Marine Canvas: Crocodile Clips for weighting down fabric over the side of the boat or bimini top. We make a small sandbag to attach to the clip, to provide weight along an edge that may not be able to be clamped. We use them in windy conditions to stabilize fabric while patterning. Adding three or four bags to an edge of a project can be a time saver. Additional photo #1. Additional photo #2.

Crown Bending Machine (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The Crown Bending Machine is an efficient tool designed to create a perfect crown on metal tubing with ease. Simply insert the tubing into the side of the machine, press the gas pedal and watch as it smoothly bends the metal into a precise crown shape. This machine not only saves significant time compared to manual methods but also delivers consistently beautiful results. Its user-friendly operation makes it an essential tool for any workshop that values precision and efficiency in metal framing.

Curved Bulkhead at Sewing Table Borders

Submitted by BAILLY Industrial: Problem 1: We were out of space for big sewing tables.
Problem 2: Big panels fall off the table and get stuck at the borders when being sewed.
Problem 3: Material drags at the wall when table is leaning at a wall or bulkhead.
Solution: Curved bulkhead at table borders. Textile panels just fold over themselves when it “hits” the curved bulkhead at sewing table ends, allowing us to save space with smaller tables while perfectly sewing big panels.

Curved Reinforcement/Facing

Submitted by Nanaimo Canvas: Add any curved reinforcement/facing in seconds. First, trim off excess fabric along raw edge and flip over for next step. Bind raw edge and you’re finished. You can make all kinds of shapes using the same method. If you want a third layer for adding hardware, stick an additional small piece of scrap fabric as needed during the initial stay stitch. I just recently figured this out, and was doing a way longer and tedious method before.

Cutting Fabric Cart (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: Cutting cart for organizing parts as we cut.

Daytona Wheeled Dolly (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: Check out this Daytona wheeled dolly. When you need to get that car or boat in your shop in just the right spot to provide you with extra space, this is a perfect solution. Each dolly holds up to 1,300 pounds.

Double Needle Trick

Submitted by TRS Industries: My trick is how we use our double needles for sewing webbing onto awnings, canopies and tarps. Our webbing is 2 inches wide, so we use a 1 and 1/4-inch gauge double needle machine with custom-made guides and a webbing roll holder. We put an aftermarket petal for reversing, so not only are we sewing our webbing in one pass, but we back stitch over the D-ring straps without taking our hands off of the fabric. Additional photo #1. Additional photo #2. Additional photo #3.

Edge Stripper

Submitted by WJB Inc.: There are many different tools being used to strip a portion of the protective film from polycarbonate. The one we use is called a Compass Cutter; they are inexpensive, can be easily adjusted for various widths and come with replaceable blades that can be bought separately. There are several brands and sources; a web search will give you many places to purchase them.

Eliminating Unnecessary Movement (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: Any wasted motion team members have to perform during the course of their work, such as looking for, reaching for or stacking parts, tools, etc. Also, walking is waste. Here is a simple example of eliminating reaching and looking for parts.

Employee Training Aids

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: We’ve created small, labeled sample versions of many items we fabricate regularly, including different construction methods and design variations. These samples are used as visual training aids for employees learning new tasks or refreshing skills they haven’t used in a while. For example, we show multiple ways a bimini top can connect to side curtains and track systems, depending on the application. We also keep samples of common details like cutouts, cleat flaps, and ratchet strap pockets. These hands-on references help employees understand construction options quickly and build consistency across the shop.

Extra Large Easy Rolling Fabric Rack

Submitted by Mikes Marine Custom Canvas Inc: This extra large fabric rack, made of 2 x 4’s can store and use 8 rolls of fabric up to 110″ wide! 4 Steel hooks from Lowes are screwed to the 2 x 4 legs on all four corners and 10-foot galvanized pipe goes inside the fabric tubes and hangs on the hooks. The base is 24″x 12″ and has 4 HD Casters that allow one hand rolling ease!

Fabric Carousel

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The Fabric Carousel is a time-saving tool designed to streamline the process of unrolling fabric onto a cutting table. Simply place the roll of fabric onto the carousel, then guide it along the table as it effortlessly unrolls the fabric in a smooth, controlled manner. This innovative tool eliminates the need for manual rolling, reducing effort and significantly speeding up the workflow. By making fabric preparation faster and easier, the carousel enhances efficiency and minimizes strain—making it an invaluable addition to any cutting operation.

Fabric Mover

Submitted by TRS Industries Inc: The Fabric mover is a cart that catches material that rolls off the conveyor belt. It then gets pushed to under the welding table until the welder is ready to load the table. Dimensions are 72″ long by 27″ wide by 20″ high.

FCT Canvas Carts (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: We build tops in batches of five; moving the canvas from the sewing area to the shipping was made easier and with less waste with the addition of the casters on this basic plastic bin. All five can now be transferred in one trip.

Fixing Tangled Binding (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: We added an eye strap to our machine to help prevent our binding from getting tangled in the knee lift and falling on the floor.

Foam Cutout Toolbox Organizer

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The Foam Cutout Toolbox Organizer is a custom-built tool designed to keep your toolbox neat, organized and efficient. Each tool has a designated slot cut from foam, ensuring a perfect fit and providing a clear visual indicator when something is missing. This not only saves time by eliminating the guesswork of locating tools but also maintains accountability and ensures no tool is left behind after a job. The foam design protects tools from damage, keeps them securely in place and maximizes space within the toolbox—making it an essential upgrade for any professional workspace.

Game Changer

Submitted by Tarps R Us: The Dewalt 20v Max Planer tool was a game changer for us this year. Rather then sanding for hours to prep pontoon plywood for new flooring.  This planer prepped the whole floor in less then an hour.  I cant believe we didn’t think of this sooner.

Grinding Attachments

Submitted by: Southern Stich Canvas and Upholstery, LLC: Grind down your die attachments for custom-fitted tools. This socket die now can get closer to the fastener and press a stronger and prettier mushroom. Additional photo #1. Additional photo #2.

Handy Dandy Adjustable Frame Holder

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: This adjustable frame holder is made by cutting a standard bimini frame clip in half and mounting each half to the end of an adjustable boat-cover support pole. It allows a bow to be temporarily secured at the center of a frame while fabricating custom bimini or camper-back bows. The holder lets you slide the bow into the mounted eye fittings and set it at the exact height and position needed. You can then step back, check the setup, and accurately measure support arm lengths before final assembly. It’s a simple, reliable “extra set of hands” that makes frame layout faster and more accurate.

Hidden Thread Storage Rack (video)

Submitted by SugarHouse Industries: This hidden thread storage rack provides a way to keep thread at your sewing station without it being in your way. Simply slide it out to get access to the thread and slide it back in out of your way when you are done with it.

Hitch Receiver for Onsite Frame Bender

Submitted by Yachtsman’s Canvas: This tool is fantastic for making on-site frame adjustments. The tool is currently shown with a kidney bean style bender. I have also mounted a 10″ and 12″ BendArc block and BendArc crowner, all of which worked very well. A hitch mount vise plate was mounted to piece of plywood with a 2″ x 4″ wood block to secure stainless-steel tubing while bending. The assembly is easy to slide into the vehicles hitch receiver for quick onsite frame bending/adjustments. Additional photo #1. Additional photo #2.

IPT Tool

Submitted by Signature CanvasMakers: The green track tool is used with the Proliner when using the IPT tool. IPT is used when whatever you are patterning is outside of the “line of sight.” The tool allows you to rotate the IPT tool around the desired point without damaging the track; the three indentations allow you to take the exact point needed depending on the pattern. The tool slides nicely along the track to easily take the next point while still being tight enough to not move while taking the current point. Additional photo.

Keeping Boxing Organized (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: Keeping your boxing organized.

Ladder Pads

Submitted by Paul’s Custom Canvas: We asked for some scraps from our SeaDek fabricator and put them on to the sides of our ladders to help protect the boat if the ladder bumps against the side of the boat.

Ladder Tray Tubbing Trolley

Submitted by SALTY BUOY Marine Canvas Inc.: Working from a third-floor shop meant finding a better way to move 20-foot tubing once it was upstairs. This mobile trolley keeps long stock off the floor and easy to maneuver. It’s built from a 10-foot aluminum ladder cable tray mounted to ¾” plywood and rides on swivel casters at the ends and mid-span. The tray rungs are padded with dense fiberboard made from compressed recycled paper (homastote) to protect the tubing and reduce noise during transport, and collapsible handles at each end provide full control while moving. The 12″ wide tray comfortably holds ten 1″ tubes with room for a second layer, making it a light, strong, and simple solution for moving long tubing inside the shop.

Laser Cutting Fabric Safety Tip

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The Laser Cutting Fabric Safety Tip is a critical step to ensure safe operation when cutting fabric with a laser. Certain fabrics can release harmful gases when exposed to a laser, so it’s important to check their safety first. To do this, heat a small piece of metal and melt a sample of the fabric onto it. Then, apply a flame—such as from a blowtorch—to the melted material. If the flame burns green, it indicates the presence of hazardous components like chlorine, making the fabric unsafe for laser cutting. If the flame burns in typical red or orange hues, the fabric is safe to use. This quick and easy test protects both workers and the environment by identifying unsafe materials before they are laser cut.

Laser Level (video)

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: Laser level to match teak lines for flooring. When pieces are on steps or a different plane this is a sure way to know your finished pieces will all be aligned with one another.

Light Under Workbench (video)

Submitted by Nanaimo Canvas: Mount a trouble light below the edge of your workbench and you can quickly and easily transfer patterned sharpie marks on Tyvek from one side to the other.

lil Weggie (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: You might not need a lil Weggie often, but when you do, it is fun to have. This lil Weggie will grip onto material, and you can tie a rope to the other end and pull up whatever you need using this lil Weggie!

Magic Eraser (video)

Submitted by Tommy, Rocket Upholstery

Macro Pad

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The Macro Pad is a game-changer for streamlining repetitive tasks on computers. A macro pad allows you to program commands or sequences of actions into its buttons, enabling you to execute them with a single press. This is particularly useful for tasks performed frequently, such as actions in CAD software, drawing programs or other technology-related processes. By replacing multi-step commands with a simple button press, a macro pad saves time, reduces effort and ensures consistency. Whether you’re navigating complex workflows or automating simple operations, this tool is a must-have for boosting productivity.

Magnetic Trailor Plug

Submitted by Banner Canvas: This is a magnetic plug for trailers that lock when backing up with a locking brake system. Additional photo.

Masking Tape and the IPT Tool for the Proliner (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: Using the IPT tool for the Proliner can be tricky on slick surfaces. We have found that running two layers of masking tape along the surface will help keep the point of the the IPT in place, helping prevent it from slipping.

Milwaukee M12 Rivet Gun

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: Many may have already seen this tool already, but for those that have not, the Milwaukee Tools M12 Rivet Gun is a game-changer for anyone that even semi-regularly has to install pop rivets. This tool comes with interchangeable tips and includes both the 1/8-inch and 3/16-inch, which are the common sizes used in our industry.

Part 2 of this tool: The 1/8-inch tip can easily be slightly modified with a file or grinding wheel to allow it to fit inside the snap stud and enable you to use 1/8-inch pop rivets with the snap studs. It also makes quick work out of the large 3/16-inch rivets for bimini frame hardware and other uses. This is one of those tools that you will buy and wonder how you ever lived without it!

Mini Boat Display

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: This mini display boat was built from a small aluminum hull and transformed into a fully finished showcase piece for boat shows and the showroom. It features a faux windshield and dash, custom paint and graphics, a stainless frame with bimini and enclosure, and mixed window materials including polycarbonate, sheet glass, and clear vinyl with a screen option. To demonstrate additional capabilities, the boat also includes a cockpit cover, full travel cover, wood flooring, seating bases, floor mats, and EVA foam decking on the bow and swim platform. The result is a compact but highly effective display that highlights a wide range of canvas, enclosure, flooring, and upholstery services while drawing strong attention from customers.

Modified Plier Stapler

Submitted by In Stitches Customs: Problem: Stapler doesn’t set staple properly when stapling zippers from the teeth side.
Solution: Weld a plate into the bottom of a Bostitch P3 Plier stapler, then machine a groove to hold the zipper teeth. This allows the stapler to properly set the staple. We also added an adjustable stop to allow you to set the zipper easily at different distances from the edge. Additional photo #1. Additional photo #2. Additional photo #3.

Modular Workshop Fabrication and Sewing Machine Feed Tables

Submitted by Lighthouse Marine Canvas: These modular 4-foot x 8-foot worktables are designed around standard lumber and plywood sizes for simple construction and maximum flexibility. Each table features a full lower storage shelf and a replaceable, sacrificial tabletop made from a ¼” birch plywood skin over a ½” plywood base, providing a smooth, durable surface that’s easy to flip or replace when worn. Built from 2 × 4 framing and set at a 40″ working height, the tables are strong, comfortable for standing or seated work, and can be pushed together with flush edges to create multiple layout configurations. Optional step-down casters allow mobility when needed, and integrated power and under-table lighting add everyday shop convenience, making these tables a cost-effective, adaptable foundation for a modern canvas shop. Additional photo.

Multi-Purpose Table

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: We designed and built this multi-purpose table at our shop when we moved into this new facility. It is used for taking pictures of patterns to digitize them, as well as a layout table and a frame crowning table with our flip-up Crown Arc crowner. This table also has cabinets with drawers on one side and open storage space on the other side. However, the coolest part of this table is the flat polycarbonate and sheet glass storage underneath the top layer. We have the table top split into two parts and they are both hinged on one side. There are electric actuators underneath to raise the table tops at the touch of a button and expose the large storage compartments for the clear glass material.

Never Lose Your Thread Snips (video)

Submitted by Seahawk Marine Canvas LLC: Simply clip a retractable key holder to your machine to always have your thread snips handy-cut and let go and it retracts automatically.

Organizer Box

Submitted by: Southern Stich Canvas & Upholstery, LLC: Custom made from light weight wood organizer box for bobbins, sewing feet, binders, etc. Additional photo #1. Additional photo #2.

“Order More” Supply System

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The “Order More” Supply System is a clever trick to ensure seamless supply management and prevent downtime due to running out of materials. When new supplies are received, a small portion is set aside in a bag labeled with the item’s details and paired with an “Order More” card. This bag is placed at the end of the supply stock. When the main supply is depleted, the remaining bag signals that it’s time to reorder. The “Order More” card is then placed in a designated spot for immediate action by the ordering team. This proactive system minimizes delays, keeps the workflow uninterrupted and ensures critical materials are always in stock.

Peg Board Storage

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: We built a strong door with a peg board front for our binding storage rack. We used standard pegboard hanger rods to organize and store our zippers. We have labeled each hanger to be able to easily find the zipper you are looking for and this also allows us to see how much stock we have of each zipper and color. Simply unsnapping the webbing strap and opening the door reveals more storage where all our binding and webbing rolls are stored.

Pre-Folder

Submitted by WJB Inc.: We tried many different tools to cut polycarbonate. Most were hand tools similar to metal shears, heavy-duty scissors and the like.
Because of the volume of polycarbonate we use, we need a power tool. We use 600 to 1000 sheets of 30 gauge and 300 to 600 sheets of 60 gauge. We looked for a battery-powered metal shear. There are several brands; we decided on a DeWalt. It has an adjustable cutting blade and has held up well. The original is eight years old and still working well. It allows for cutting curves and angles very well, offering a clean-cut edge. These are but a few that we have been using and designing over the years.

Pre-Packaged Fasteners and Hardware

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: We purchased some small inexpensive bags from amazon and then used Microsoft Word to create some simple labels that we staple to the bags in which we pre-package some various items that customers often come into our shop or call looking for.  It looks more professional and is pre-priced and ready to sell.  We make a little money on the items to make it worth having on the shelves and offer a good service to our customers.

Precision Laser Alignment Tool

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The Precision Laser Alignment Tool is an invaluable resource for achieving accuracy and consistency in various tasks. By incorporating lasers into processes like aligning metal tubes, positioning materials for the heat press or other various other things, this tool ensures precise placement and uniform results across projects. The visual laser saves time and reduces errors, while improving the overall quality of work. This commitment to precision not only streamlines operations but also enhances reliability, making it an indispensable tool for maintaining consistency and efficiency in any workshop.

Pulling out Snaps and Grommets

Submitted by Banner Canvas: You can use fence-post pliers for pulling out snaps and grommets.

Purple Photogrammetry QR Target

Submitted by Signature CanvasMakers, LLC: We created a series of reusable targets to dull out gel coat and break up large spaces of a single specific color, which helps realign and reconstruct 3D scans allowing us to reduce the time needed to scan.

QR Codes (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: We have started using QR codes to help with everything from inventory to project management.

Removing Permanent Marker

Submitted by Yachtsman’s Canvas: We’ve all run into the issue of accidentally getting permanent marker on our customer’s boat. This is an effective method for fully removing marks from the fiberglass.

Repurposing Hog Ring Plier

Submitted by Precision Custom Canvas: Repurposing a hog ring plier: Secure a snap cap for easy removal. The contoured groove in the jaws of the hog ring plier securely grip the snap cap so that you can hold the cap and material in one hand and drill out the rolled side easily with your other hand. Additional photo #1. Additional photo #2. Additional photo #3.

Reverse Foot Pedal (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: How our reverse foot pedal works on our all our sewing machines.

Rope Catcher

Submitted by Paul’s Custom Canvas, Inc.: We tie down our travel and storage covers with rope to go under the boat and to the other side. This keeps the cover tight to the boat for travel. We recommend to our customer to straighten a wire coat hanger to fish the ropes from under the boat. Nice long stick with a hook on the end of it.

Salmon Ladder Style Fabric Rack

Submitted by Up-North Upholstery: We built a fabric rack to hold rolls of fabric we are currently using. It was inspired by a salmon ladder, a style of workout equipment. It was easily made with four 2-by-4s and galvanized pipe. It makes switching out fabric incredibly fast and easy, and makes rolling out fabric a breeze.

Sample Boards (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: We use sample boards to set standards and teach how to make our products.

Sew Table Pads

Submitted by Signature CanvasMakers, LLC: Using soft car cover material and cabinet grip material, we created pads that allow a sewer to easily spin heavy or sticky material around on their table. Additional photo.

Shop Layout Color-Coding System

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The Shop Layout Color-Coding System is a simple yet highly effective tip for streamlining organization and inventory management. By designating sections of the shop with colors and further subdividing them with letters, numbers and positions, every item can be precisely located with ease. For example, an item labeled “Red A1.04” indicates it’s in the Red section, shelf A, on the first level from the ground and in the fourth position from the left. This system translates seamlessly to a digital inventory, allowing team members to quickly identify and retrieve items without confusion. The combination of visual cues and digital references eliminates wasted time searching for materials and enhances overall shop efficiency.

Staple Jars

Submitted by Up-North Upholstery: We keep mason jars full of staples on each workstation so we don’t have to go back and forth every time we run out. It may not seem like much, but cutting out repetitive tasks contributes to making each job more efficient.

Stayput Installer Tool (video)

Submitted by TRS Industries Inc.: The Stayput installer tool is a 6″ x 4-1/2″ x 1″ thick HDPE with a notch cutout to hold the Stayput for installation. The tool lines up with the edge of the material and holds it straight for a perfectly set Stayput every time.

Storage Table (video)

Submitted by All Marine Canvas One, LLC

Suction Cup with Bungee Attachment (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: When you are making a cockpit cover and need to keep the material fastened in place. All you need is a few suction cups with attached bungees. Make a small cut in the material, fasten the suction cups and then place on the windshield. Now your material is locked down and ready to be marked.

Suction Cups (video)

Submitted by Rocket Upholstery

Table for Bending from Center of Frame

Submitted by WJB Inc.: Bending frames is a primary function. We use a table set up to allow bending from the center of the frame. This allows us to make the frames symmetrical, which also allows us to make half patterns on the boat, in turn saving time and pattern material. The bending table is approximately 4 feet by 10 feet. We have various wooden dies for different radii. There are also dies for putting crown in the width of the frame; this is necessary on wider tops to allow for drainage. The wooden dies eliminate any scratching of the tubing. The table has a measurement scale at the top, clamping the tubing to an angle iron running the length of the table at the desired width allows you to bend one side, flip the tubing to bend the other side. We bend every size tubing from 7/8-inch to 1 and 1/4-inch stainless. Over the years I have seen many different bending tools; none have given me a desire to change from our table.

Tape Measure Tips (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: Here are a few tips about a tool you use every day. We are showing you 3 tape measure tricks you probably never knew—but fair warning, this video might be a little upsetting for some of you.

Toolbelt with Extra Pouches

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: Toolbelt with extra pouches to carry a range of fasteners and tools. Improves efficiency as you aren’t spending as much time going back and forth to the dock, work van, etc.

The Jesus Board – Walk on Water

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: When a boat is tied to a dock on only one side and you still need access to fasteners over the water, the “Jesus Board” comes in handy. This setup uses either a rigid inflatable dock or an inflatable paddleboard as a stable work platform alongside the boat. The inflatable dock (5-foot × 8-foot, 6″ thick) provides a wide, steady surface that can support two adults and works well for most users. For more experienced installers, a paddleboard can also be used, though it is far less stable. While not for the faint of heart, these floating platforms allow access where docks don’t reach—and they definitely draw attention around the marina. Additional photo.

The Window Book

Submitted by Marine Tops Unlimited: The Window Book is a padded, zip-up sample book with soft sleeves that hold small 2-foot × 3-foot window samples. It includes examples of every clear material we use, along with different finishing methods, U-zip styles, U-zip-with-screen options, and various screen configurations for camper-back enclosures. Customers can touch, see, and compare options so they clearly understand what they are selecting before ordering. The book also serves as a visual training tool for employees involved in design, cutting, and sewing. Its zippered, protective design keeps samples in great condition and makes it easy to take to customer boats or boat shows, while helping upsell higher-quality window materials and the right screen options.

Track System (video)

Submitted by Rocket Upholstery

Transforming Business Documentation with AI

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: AI tools like ChatGPT have revolutionized how I handle business documents, saving hours by producing polished results in seconds. From analyzing email threads to crafting responses, drafting employee documents and collaborating with external partners, the key is teaching the AI about your business—much like onboarding a top-performing employee. Once customized, it becomes an ultra-efficient assistant, streamlining tasks like writing our on-hold prompt and even organizing thoughts for this submission. By investing time upfront to tailor the AI, I’ve unlocked a powerful tool that enhances efficiency, quality and focus on strategic priorities.

Tubing Clamp

All Marine Canvas One, LLC: This clamp is shaped to fit 7/8-inch or 1-inch stainless steel or aluminum tubing to assist in fitting bimini tops. Additional photo.

Trimming Tools

Submitted by Charlton’s Marine Canvas: One tool will trim the outside edge masking of your polycarbonate to and exact measurement you desire. The other tool will trim 1.5 inches of the masking exactly for installing a U-zipper on polycarbonate. Additional photo.

Using Acrylic Sticks To Cut Fabric With Snap Off Razor Knife

Submitted by Boat Canvas Outfitter: An acrylic windshield contact of mine cut up some of his scraps to make me a bunch of measuring sticks.  Instead of measuring with a ruler, chalking marks and drawing lines, I just stack up the sticks to the desired width and then use a snap off razor knife to quickly cut perfectly straight lines. It’s a lot easier and faster than measuring with a ruler—making the chalk marks, drawing lines and cutting with a scissors. Additional photo.

U-Zip Electric Shears (video)

Submitted by Yachtsman’s Canvas: My tool submission is a pair of $30 electric shears to easily cut a U-zip opening smooth, clean and perfectly centered every time.

Under-Table 3D Tool Organizer

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The Under-Table 3D Tool Organizer is a space-saving innovation designed to keep essential tools securely stored beneath your worktable while remaining within fingertip reach. This 3D-printed organizer features custom slots and compartments for your most-used tools, ensuring a clutter-free workspace and making it easy to spot when something is missing. Its under-table design maximizes available space, perfect for compact workstations, and streamlines efficiency by eliminating the need to rummage through drawers. Lightweight yet durable, this organizer enhances organization and accessibility, saving time, reducing downtime and keeping your workflow seamless.

Variable Speed Motors

Submitted by WJB Inc.: Replacing the old-style sewing machine motors with the new variable speed will greatly improve your sewing skills. The new ones allow you to reduce speed’s for sewing difficult or detailed projects. Clutch motor pedals have to be pumped to allow control of the speed. At lower speed you don’t have full power, making for an even more difficult situation. With a variable speed you can turn down the RPMs, but have the full power of the motor. This is especially good for teaching new seamstresses—they are much less intimidated by the machine. You can purchase motors to retrofit any machine.

Velcro on Shelves

Submitted by Paul’s Custom Canvas: We use Velcro on our shelves to label our material and how much we need to keep in stock. Using Velcro allows us to easily change as our needs change due to seasons or color trends.

Webbing Box (video)

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: This is our “webbing box.” It has solved a few problems from organization to easy of use (sewing onto covers) to keeping each sewing station stocked with webbing, hook and loop and boat vents.

Welt Scissors

Submitted by All Marine Canvas One, LLC: These scissors cut vinyl or cloth 1 and 1/2 inches wide to sew welt with a finish seam of 1/2 inches. Additional photo #1. Additional photo #2.

Wench Lift (video)

Submitted by Boatman Marine Canvas: This tool we created, using a boat winch, coated steel cable, and a few well-placed pulleys and hooks, we can raise and remove even the largest rear engine lids for repair with ease.

Welt Stretching

Submitted by Signature CanvasMakers: Using a series of clamps and custom lazy Susans, we can stretch welt in long distances without taking up space elsewhere. With this design it takes about one and a half to two minutes for one person to stretch two runs of 400 inches of welt. Additional photo.

Zipper Head Attachment Tool

Submitted by SewLong Custom Covers: The Zipper Head Attachment Tool is a game-changing innovation for anyone working with zippers, designed to simplify and speed up the process of attaching zipper heads to zippers. This tool securely holds the zipper head in place, allowing for quick and hassle-free alignment and attachment to the zipper track. Whether you’re tackling a large-scale project or a quick repair, this tool saves time and frustration, ensuring a smooth, consistent result every time. Its ergonomic design and ease of use make it an essential addition to any marine fabricator’s toolkit.

Zipper Tooth Counter

Submitted by Lakeside Marine Canvas: If you need to match a panel and do not know how many teeth are on the zipper. Take your handy-dandy tooth counter and simply zip it to the zipper in question and voilà! Takes the guess work out of the project! Additional photo #1. Additional photo #2.