For those following Roberts discussion of using Shelter-rite for biminis and enclosures, you may be interested in a price comparison with the more commonly used materials- Weblon and Sunbrella.

Shelter-rite is available in two weights, 18oz and 22oz, is a vinyl coated, nylon reinforced material. I believe Robert said that they use the 18oz.

Weblon yacht fabric (Regatta)is a 13oz, vinyl laminated, polyester reinforced material.

Sunbrella I think we are all familiar with, but for those who aren't, it is a 9.5oz, acrylic material, which by the way is very chafe prone.

Comparing wholesale prices, 18oz Shelter-rite is essentially the same price as Weblon, both are about half the price of Sunbrella.

Sounds like Robert has hit on a great alternative, if you can find someone willing to fabricate with it. I wonder if Robert has a traveling, suitcase sized sewing machine?

Rudy
Briney Bug, Panama City, Fl

Good topic since I am getting ready to replace my enclosure.  I agree with
Rudy's assessment on cost as I have the ability to purchase from TriVantage
direct and have made pretty much the same price comparison.
I have a sample of the 18oz. Shelter-Rite coming.  I also have a Sail Rite
LSZ-1.  It has been a great machine for my limited use. Which brings up
another point:  The group, perhaps except for Robert seems to agree that
Tenera thread is just plain hard to use.  I believe that Robert had a
machine tech come in to set their machines to use it.

I purchase some about a year ago and it would not work well on my machine.
If you don't know, the sail rite is a "limited" walking foot machine built
on a Thompson frame.  I don't know of a better portable under $1BU to have
on board.  But I did not have good luck with the Tenera.  Has anyone else
experienced the frustration of working with Tenera?  Any pointers.  Needle
size / type?  I would love to use it again.  My current enclosure is about
6YO and did not hold up well.

Greg