How to Make Coaming Bolster Pads for Your Boat
Details
Details
Coaming pads or coaming bolsters are long, cushioned pads that are found around the perimeter of the boat and offer a soft, cushioned surface to lean against or use as a backrest. Coaming bolsters can be found on any type of boat — fishing boat, sailboat, speedboat, you name it! These pads are not only functional in providing a cushioned surface, but they also add a nice-looking feature around the perimeter of the boat and dress up the boat's appearance. We'll be showing you how to make your own coaming pads using supplies from Sailrite®. Let's get started!
Essentially, you can add coaming bolster pads anywhere you don't want a hard rail. They are typically found around the inside perimeter of fishing boats to lean against while you reel in a catch. They are also found on sailboats at the inside top edge of the hull before the gunwale.
We're using CushionRite® Premium Antimicrobial Foam for our coaming pad. The foam will be wrapped in Silk Film and covered in a waterproof vinyl, so there is little chance of water reaching the foam. You can also choose Dry Fast Foam for your coaming pad. If you go with Dry Fast, we recommend installing vent grommets under the coaming pad to allow breathability so that the CushionRite® Dry Fast Foam can dry out if water reaches the foam.
Your coaming pad will need a backer board. We used PVC trim board that we purchased at a local hardware store. Once you have your trim board cut to the size you need, next comes cutting the foam. Then we'll show you how to cut and sew your fabric panels together. We chose EverSoft™ Vinyl Channeling Fabric for our coaming pad. You can use regular vinyl upholstery fabric as well, but we like the look of the pleated channels of the EverSoft Channeling Fabric.
Watch the video below to learn how to make DIY coaming bolster pads. At Sailrite, we provide you with all the fabric, tools, hardware and how-to instructions you need to start your sewing journey. Explore our inventory of products and free how-to content and get inspired to DIY for your boat, home, auto and more.