Some fabrics stretch, fade, or wear more than others, and even shock cords may not be able to take up the slack of cheap fabric or wet, untreated canvas. We ve found heavy-weight fabric advantageous in building these structures. And when in doubt as to the best fabric weight for a specific application, we call our supplier and ask his opinion. No matter how it s designed or which fabric is used, a structure that flaps, sags, or leaks is as bad as none at all. A good support system is the key to success.
Every boat offers different options for se- curing and supporting fabric structures.
Battens, ridgepoles, upright poles, and shock cords can provide tension and support. Fabric also needs slope to effectively shed moisture. Even a heavy dew will fill pockets in a flat and loose-fitting piece of fabric. And a bit of flex is necessary because a stiff and unyielding fabric structure will strain lines, bend supports, and stretch fabric. Simple Supports Options for framing and support of a fabric structure are limited only by the imagination.