WTB bimini top for our 16' Angler

Connie Fisher · Guest

Hello from Guttenberg, Iowa,

I’m looking to buy a bimini top for our 16' Angler.

Does anyone have one that they are willing to sell?

Or can can the group tell me what exactly, how to specify, where I should order etc.

Thank you & best regards,

Ron, Connie, Bear & Dolly Fisher
ron@ronfisher.com
_________________
1983 22' C-Dory Classic MFN221080183
1990 16' Angler

thataway · Posted: Wed Jun 01, 2011 9:02 pm Post subject:

King Canvas in Seattle has the patterns and made the "factory" bimini's in the past. However, having ordered a King Canvas vs a locally built and fitted Bimini--I found that the local canvas firm did a better fit, and used better quality materials.

If you have a local canvas shop--then get a bid from them. You can probably get a top which will serve your exact needs best. (Such as full standing head room, a removable pannel in the front for better ventillation if at anchor, camper canvas sides, a fold down option which allows you to fish without the bimini bows in the way etc.

Connie Fisher · Guest

Thank you Bob,

I can already see that this is going to be another ”learning adventure”.

Being in Iowa and a long way from any other C-Dorys, I’m wondering if the local canvas/upholstery shops will have access to the metal “hoops” etc.

Are the “hoops” fabricated at the canvas shops or somewhere else?

I/we probably need photos of the options.

I have had wonderfully crafted replacement tops and covers made but the metal “hoops” were always present on the boats when purchased used.

Let me know.

Regards,

Ron, Connie, Bear & Dolly Fisher
ron@ronfisher.com

thataway · Posted: Wed Jun 01, 2011 10:03 pm Post subject:

Many canvas shops bend their own tubing to produce the bows. It is not that hard for the gradual bends--but sharp bends are harder. It is done best with a hyraulic bender--but can be done by hand, with a conduit bender. Some shops just order the bows from metal working shops.

I prefer Stainless steel bows and fittings I have SS on the C dory, and Aluminum bows, with plastic fittings on the Caracal 18 (it came that way). The aluminum is not as sturdy.

Even inland towns often have canvas workers--for awnings, and other canopies, as well as upholustry. A Bimini is fairly easy to make if you have the correct sewing machine, and bows etc. I like to see the edges bound with Sunbella tape, instead of just hot knifed. A good top should last at least 10 years.

jennykatz · Posted: Thu Jun 02, 2011 6:18 am Post subject: bimini top

If you can't find a canvas shop google bimini top and go to one of the many vendors or try Overton's they sell alum and S/S bimini tops take your measurements and go for it .The fittings will just skrew in or you can through bolt them .Good Luck . Jim

Connie Fisher · Guest

Thank you Jim,

My question to the group is, has anyone ordered a bimini top for a 16’ C-Dory through Overton's? If so, please tell us about your success story and what exactly did you order.

Regards,

Ron, Connie, Bear & Dolly Fisher