3 Bow Bimini Boat Top Instructions - Boat Design Net

marks one-half inch closer to the edge of thebimini. Use these new marks to position thezipper before sewing it. The slight "bubble" inthe sleeve that results allows for the insertionof the frame tubing. Use basting tape to holdthe free edge of the zipper tape flat againstthe cover. Then sew that edge of the zipper tothe top with a single row of stitches. Keep thestitch as straight as possible since it will bevisible on the top of the cover.The sleeve on the bow that supports anintermediate bow (this would include both thesleeves in a four bow frame) should be sewnwith two gaps in the stitching 2 to 4 incheswide 18 inches or so from the center line oneach side. These gaps will be used as exitpoints for the two "thin" 1 inch webbingstraps that run from the aft bow to the centerbow to hold it in place (Figure 16 ). Reverseover the stitches next to these access slits tokeep them from raveling.Run a binding tape all round the coverincluding the tails. Binding tape is prefoldedwith a crease in its center so it can be sandwichedover the edge that is to be protected.Either a straight or a zigzag stitch can beused to hold it in place. When finished, all rawedges should be covered.All that remains is the webbing straps.Four straps are used to support the Bimini.Two more are used from the "support" bow tothe intermediate bow (plus 2 more in the caseof a 4 bow frame) to hold them in position.These latter straps should be cut from 1 inch"thin" webbing 10 inches longer than twice thedistance from the rear sleeve to the centerbow. On one end of each strap, sew a 1 inchcam buckle into a small loop. Heat seal theother end so that it can be looped over thecenter bow and taken through the cam bucklefor proper adjustment (Figure 17 ).PHOTO 1PHOTO 2Fore & Aft Support StrapsThere will be two forward and two aft10