Popper alternative

[big_si]

no, i am not wanting to try any kind of happy pill or LSD equivalent...

is there a decent kind of replacement for the poppers that keep the boats canvas held in place. some are now either being pulled from that canvas or are shearing off.

thanks heaps
Simon

 

[barryhall]

As it happens I have been "Googling" for a replacement for one that is missing from my sail cover - these are very secure and are screwed together through the canvas.
http://www.holden.co.uk/viewProducts.asp...5&group=075
Barry

 

[tangofour]

The traditional 'poppers' have one major drawback and thats the fact that one half always ends up exposing some sort of metal pin or lug exposed to toes and soles.

These www.perfix.nl appear to be a great alternative however when ordered in singles from the UK local supplier they are just plain expensive. I'm looking for a couple of guys to share a bigger order with to get the price down a bit.

 

[big_si]

Tangofour, those perfix fastners look just the ticket.

Not sure off the top of my head how many i would need. With the camper canvas and the tonneau cover, 100 perhaps...

I could get a better idea of how many next time i am on the boat. Also willing to wait if you want someone else in on a bulk order.

 

[sticky]

I would be happy to join you both on coming in on a bulk buy of Perfix, but I only need a dozen. Too piddling?
www.contender.co.uk of Fareham , 01329 849 036 seem to be selling this fastener in the UK.

 

[geoffatstanpit]

The poppers on my halyard bags fell apart when I took them off at the end of last season. Replaced with "lift the dot" fasteners. A much better bit of engineering. Now done the same with the pramhood fasteners.

 

[William_H]

The problem with poppers and in fact eyelets is that there is no reinforcing around the material so there is high stress around the popper and the fabric lets go.
My personal preference although it looks ugly is a strip of fabric folded to about 4 thicknesses sewn to the canvass over a reasonable length ie 10cms one flap on top one flap underneath to make a loop for rope attachment. If it is a corner attachment then use 2 strips each sewn at rightangles onto each hem. You can add another at 45 degrees into the canvas passing the rope through all 3 loops to create a strong attachment. A normal sewing machine will usually do the job. You can put whipping twine stitches in or even rivets to make even stronger. Ordinary thin sewing thread doesn't last so long with UV and chafe but at least you can redo it and the canvass is not damaged by poppers pulled out. olewill