7 Things to Know About Ordering New, Soft Furnishings

Published: Monday, March 15, 2021
By: Laura Gills

Punxsutawney Phil has said that the boating season is upon us but, as I write this, it's snowing! That’s actually just fine because when it comes to soft furnishings for one's boat or yacht, the off-season is the best time to get things done.

As you consider your new soft furnishings project this spring, here are some things you should know.

1. Mattresses, linens, and bedding are almost always custom. Sometimes on larger vessels like yachts, beds will be standard, but it is unusual up here on the Great Lakes. Staterooms are typically uniquely shaped and items are not a click-to-purchase sale.
2. Custom products involve having template(s) made. Unless I've been on your boat to make a template, we don't have one. Part of the lead time for production is gaining access to board your boat. If you are fortunate to be in heated storage, that process can be sooner versus later.
3. Anything custom often takes 6 to 8 weeks, sometimes more. With COVID causing manufacturing delays, lead times are often longer and unpredictable.
4. When choosing fabrics for bedding, cushions, and pillows, pay attention to your vessel’s design. When designing for my residential clients, I often remind them that we need to pay attention to the architecture. Is your boat sleek and modern? Is it traditional and nostalgic? What are its inherent neutrals? These should guide your choices.
5. Consider how long you will keep your boat. This is one of the most common questions I ask boat owners. Often, people don't really know. However, if this is "THE BOAT," your investments into it will be quite different than if you only think you’ll have it a few years before the next one.
6. Resale value. Home or boat, the conversations are really similar. Anything that is basically permanent should be neutral, classy, and hard-wearing. On a boat, this means wall coverings, bolsters, upholstery, keeper rails (the upholstered rails that keep your mattress from flying), flooring, and window coverings.
7. Decide where you want to add pattern and color. This is where it can get more personal. Custom bedding and pillows are not inexpensive but are relatively easy for the next boat owner to change out. Pillows often drive people crazy on a boat, but a few of the right ones can really add sparkle and personality. They are also super easy to switch out.

I hope these pointers are helpful as you figure out what you may want to have done on your boat. For info and inspiration, please check out www.freshwatergills.com.  And don't forget to check the blogs and Facebook for videos and helpful tips.

A version of this article appeared in the Spring Issue (Mar/Apr) 2021 of Great Lakes Scuttlebutt magazine.

tags: Accessories, Spring Commissioning

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