Formula Upholstery Project

Cape Canvas & Rigging, West Yarmouth, Mass., United States

The client needed the high-use areas of his boat reupholstered to match the remaining cushions. Matching fabric, style and design was his priority.

The first hurdle was locating the fabric to match the vintage Formula. Three types of Nautolex® (Stratford, Navigator, Sunlaser) and Formula’s custom white vinyl were used. The Sunlaser was discontinued and was found in deadstock. All of the plywood frames were rotten and had to be copied and replaced with new marine plywood coated with epoxy. After the frame fabrication each piece of the cushion skins had to be unstitched, flattened and used as a pattern. The number of panels meant there was little room for error. All the seams match the original design, including double and single topstitching and piping. Some pieces required sew foam. The upholstery required staples for the wood section and glue to secure the fiberglass section. The helm features hydraulic articulating seats.

The client was thrilled when he saw the work and has committed to finishing the rest of the boat’s upholstery this winter. This project is Cape Canvas & Rigging’s go-to example when showing prospective clients our upholstery work.