How to make a cuddy for a Quicksilver

Nghost · 04 July 2003, 15:28

This is the email from Barbara who made the cuddy:

Hello Nigel,
I attach photos of boat with cuddy.
The first thing that we did with the boat was to attach round patches with loops and aluminium D's. Then we attached the cord through every D.
Then we attached 4 more patches at the front end of the boat and one at the bow, connected two fibre glass tent rods for the first arch and two and a bit fibreglass tent rods for the second arch. Connecting these through the D's on the boat. These rods are held in place with another rod from the extreme front of the boat to the last arch. Securing this rod with a felt tip top and tape into place the second arch secure with cord. One cord each side to strengthen the rods.
Purchase good quality tent canvas somewhere like touchwoods. Drape over structure, measure using chalk to mark the shape. leaving two inches to play with. I measured to the top of the quicksilvers bottom blue line then shortened to the top. There are 4 pleats where I made the canvas to fit 2 long and two short. All at the front. Fit the longest point towards the centre of the boat leaving a slight overhang. Do not put pins through material as every hole that you make will leave a potential leak. (tip, I used cloths pegs to get the general outline) when you have the general fit start to sew. Good sturdy lines so you should not have to go over. Always refit. A step at a time. Mark where you want your ties and again attach underneath using good strong thread.
Good luck.
It works very well and I have been told that I am now on my next adventure and will be making a rear to this so some one not far away (Ray) can sleep on board.

Nghost · 04 July 2003, 15:28

a piccy

Nghost · 04 July 2003, 15:29

another

Nghost · 04 July 2003, 15:34

another

Nghost · 04 July 2003, 15:38

anothe 1

Nghost · 04 July 2003, 15:39

yet another

Nghost · 04 July 2003, 15:39

and another

Nghost · 04 July 2003, 15:40

one more

Keith Hart · 05 July 2003, 16:09

Wow, thanks Nghost. You really have my creative juices flowing now. You have given me loads of ideas.

I see you used tent 'canvas'. Did you think of trying the lighter nylon type tent material?

Keith (cuddy, cabin sib, whatever next) Hart

Nghost · 07 July 2003, 22:06

The light tent canvas seemed about right. I would think that the lighter nylon stuff ma be a bit flimsy.

PS. I got a tiny (3m) rib today only £250 on a trailer (the trailer was worth that). It is a flatacraft force 3.