Collection: Metal

Custom Metal Fabrication for Boats and Yachts

Custom metal fabrication is the process of designing, cutting, welding, and finishing metal components built specifically for a boat or yacht. Unlike off-the-shelf parts, custom fabrication creates pieces that fit your vessel exactly and match your specifications for function, size, and appearance.

At Canvas Designers, our metal fabrication department builds stainless steel and aluminum solutions for boats of all sizes. We produce rails, ladders, pulpits, anchor fairleads, rod holders, Sunfly shade poles, and structural components in our 35,000 square foot Riviera Beach, Florida facility. Every piece is fabricated, welded, and finished in-house by our team of experienced marine metalworkers.

If you can imagine it, we can fabricate it.

What We Fabricate

Canvas Designers offers custom metal fabrication for marine applications. Our shop handles projects ranging from single rod holders to complete rail systems for mega yachts.

Rails and Handrails Custom boat rails require precise measurements and skilled fabrication to follow hull contours exactly. We build:

• Bow rails
• Stern rails
• San Juan rails
• Grab rails
• Boarding rails
• Flybridge rails

Ladders

Every ladder is custom built for safety, stability, and fit. Our ladder fabrication includes:

• Swim ladders
• Boarding ladders
• Aft brow ladders
• Transom ladders
• Tower access ladders
• Custom step configurations

Deck Hardware Beyond rails and ladders, we fabricate precision deck hardware:

• Anchor fairleads (standard and extended, multiple mounting styles)
• Rod holders and receivers
• Bow and stern pulpits
• Cleats and bollards
• Custom mounting brackets
• Cup holder mounts

Shade Systems Our Sunfly shade pole system combines metal fabrication with sun protection:

• Carbon fiber shade poles
• Aluminum shade poles
• Topping lift poles
• Custom shade sail hardware

Structural Components For larger projects requiring structural metalwork:

• T-top frames and supports
• Radar arch structures
• Tower frameworks
• Hardtop supports
• Custom aluminum frameworks

We work with 316 stainless steel, marine-grade aluminum, and carbon fiber depending on your application, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

Custom Rails for Boats and Yachts

Custom rails are the most common metal fabrication request we receive. Every boat has different dimensions, curves, and mounting points. Stock rails rarely fit properly and usually require modification anyway.

Our fabrication team specializes in all railing types for recreational boats, sportfishing yachts, and commercial vessels. The process starts with precise on-boat measurements, followed by templating and fabrication that matches your hull contours exactly.

What makes a quality custom rail:

• Tubing diameter matched to boat size and use
• Bend radius that follows the sheer line naturally
• Mounting points positioned for structural integrity
• Welded joints ground smooth and polished
• Finish matched to existing hardware

Materials for rail fabrication:

• 316L stainless steel offers the highest corrosion resistance for saltwater environments
• 6061-T6 marine aluminum provides lightweight strength with corrosion resistance
• Both materials available in mirror polish or brushed finishes

Custom rail projects typically take 4-8 weeks depending on complexity. We can work from your measurements, photos, or schedule an on-site consultation at marinas throughout South Florida.

Custom Ladders for Marine Applications

A ladder that works perfectly on one boat may not fit another. Hull angles, freeboard height, transom shape, and mounting surfaces vary between vessels. Custom ladder fabrication solves this problem.

Canvas Designers fabricates ladders for:

• Swim platforms requiring specific step spacing
• Transoms with curved or angled surfaces
• Boarding gates with limited clearance
• Tower access on sportfishing boats
• Flybridge access on motor yachts

Ladder features we build:

• Telescoping designs that extend and retract
• Folding mechanisms for storage
• Integrated handrails for safety
• Non-slip treads (welded or bolt-on)
• Quick-release mounting systems

Every ladder meets safety standards for step width, spacing, and load capacity. We test each ladder before delivery.

H2: Pulpits, Rod Holders, and Deck Hardware

Beyond rails and ladders, our metal shop produces custom deck hardware for every application.

Pulpits Bow pulpits and stern pulpits fabricated to your specifications. We replicate damaged pulpits from measurements or photos, upgrade existing designs with additional features, or create entirely new configurations for custom builds.

Pulpit fabrication includes:

• Single and double bow pulpits
• Stern pulpits with swim platform integration
• Anchor roller mounts
• Navigation light brackets
• Flag pole sockets

Fishing Rod Holders Custom rod holders and receivers in stainless steel or aluminum. We fabricate rod holders in various angles and mounting configurations for:

• Trolling (15-30 degree angle)
• Bottom fishing (vertical or near-vertical)
• Storage and transport
• Gunwale, rocket launcher, and T-top mounting

Anchor Fairleads Our anchor fairleads are known throughout the industry for their ergonomic design and elegant appearance. The fairlead guides your anchor rode cleanly over the bow while protecting gel coat and deck surfaces from chain wear. See the complete Anchor Fairlead section below for specifications.

H2: 316L Stainless Steel Anchor Fairleads

The Canvas Designers Anchor Fairlead is one of our signature metal fabrication products. Built from 316L stainless steel using only the finest materials available in the industry, our unique design allows removal and spans over most toe rails with ease.

"Our strength is the difference."

We offer three mounting styles in two sizes (Standard and Extended) for a total of six configurations to fit virtually any sportfishing boat or yacht.

Anchor Fairlead Features

All Canvas Designers anchor fairleads include:

• 316L Stainless Steel construction for maximum corrosion resistance
• Black Delrin insert for smooth anchor rode operation and reduced wear
• Mirror polish finish standard on all models
• Standard mounting hardware included with every fairlead
• Backing plate included for proper load distribution
• Available with holes or studs for your preferred mounting method
• Optional drain tubes available
• Technical drawings available upon request

Standard Anchor Fairlead Models

Standard fairleads have a clearing height of 3.375" to 3.875" and are designed for boats with shorter anchor lockers or minimal bow overhang.

Standard Removable Fairlead (Slide Out) - Item #103120000 The slide-out design allows the fairlead chute to be completely removed and stored in your anchor locker when not in use. The permanent base remains mounted to the deck. This is our most popular model for sportfishing boats.

Standard Fixed Removable Fairlead (Deck Plate) - Item #103120002 Features a deck plate mounting system. The fairlead attaches to a flush-mounted base plate for a clean appearance when removed.

Standard Fixed Fairlead (Permanently Affixed) - Item #103120101 A one-piece design that mounts permanently to the deck. Best option when removability is not required.

Extended Anchor Fairlead Models

Extended fairleads have a clearing height of 7.625" to 8.125" and are designed for boats with deeper anchor lockers, steeper deck angles, or taller toe rails.

Extended Removable Fairlead (Slide Out) - Item #103120001 Same slide-out functionality as the standard model with increased clearing height for deeper anchor lockers.

Extended Fixed Removable Fairlead (Deck Plate) - Item #103120003 Deck plate mounting with extended height clearance.

Extended Fixed Fairlead (Permanently Affixed) - Item #103120100 Permanent mount option with extended height for taller toe rail configurations.

H3: Which Anchor Fairlead Do I Need?

Several factors determine which fairlead configuration fits your boat:

Clearing Height (Standard vs Extended)

• Measure the height from your deck surface to the top of your toe rail
• Standard models clear 3.375" to 3.875"
• Extended models clear 7.625" to 8.125"
• If your toe rail is taller than 4", you likely need the extended version

Mounting Style (Slide Out vs Deck Plate vs Fixed)

• Slide Out: Best for boats where you want to remove and store the fairlead when not anchoring. Most popular choice for sportfishing boats.
• Deck Plate: Clean flush-mount appearance when fairlead is removed. Good balance of aesthetics and removability.
• Fixed: Permanent installation. Best option when you don't need to remove the fairlead.

Other Considerations

• Anchor locker depth and geometry
• Windlass position and rode angle
• Deck angle at the bow
• Rode diameter (chain vs rope vs combination)

Our sales team can help determine the right configuration during a consultation call. We can also work from photos and measurements if you're not local.

H3: Anchor Fairlead Accessories

Complete your fairlead installation with these accessories:

Storage and Transport

• Standard Anchor Fairlead Bag (Black or White) - Item #101610032
• Extended Anchor Fairlead Bag (Black or White) - Item #101610031
• Anchor Fairlead Shipping Crate - Item #103120502

Storage Brackets

• Storage Bracket (2-Piece Delrin) - Item #103110003
• Storage Bracket (2-Piece Delrin with Base) - Item #103110003
• Storage Bracket (1-Piece Stainless Steel) - Item #103110510
• Storage Bracket (1-Piece Aluminum) - Item #103110520
• Storage Bracket (1-Piece Black Delrin) - Item #103110530
• Storage Bracket (1-Piece White Delrin) - Item #103110531

Installation Services

• Standard Installation
• Drill and Pin Anchor Service

Upgrades and Add-Ons

• Additional Large Roller - Item #103110070
• Additional Small Roller - Item #103110072
• Double Roller End Swivel Attachment - Item #103110074
• Bent Ends for Anchor Fairlead - Item #103110076

Contact us for current pricing on all fairlead models and accessories.

H2: Sunfly Shade Sail Pole System

The Sunfly Shade Sail Pole System is the best boat shade pole solution in the business. Designed and built by Canvas Designers, Sunfly poles combine advanced materials with elegant design to provide reliable shade coverage for sportfishing boats, center consoles, and yachts.

"Your boat is our passion."

H3: Why Sunfly Shade Poles?

We recognize the significance of having enough shade on your boat to ensure comfort and protection from the sun. Sunfly poles are designed to provide shade to the boat's occupants, helping to prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion.

Key Benefits:

• Strongest carbon fiber pole in the industry
• No support straps needed
• Fits most rod holders with 1-1/2 inch diameter
• Pleasing to the eye and built to last
• Versatile for small fishing vessels to large yachts
• Available in multiple materials and finishes

H2: Metal Polishing and Finishing Services

Nothing reveals the beauty of marine metalwork like a proper finish. Our polish department delivers finishes that meet yacht-quality standards.

Mirror Finish Polish Mirror finish polishing removes all surface defects and creates a highly reflective surface. The metal reflects its surroundings like a mirror.

The process involves progressively finer abrasives until the surface reaches approximately 0.2 microns. This level of finish requires skill and patience. Our polishers work through multiple grit stages to achieve consistent results across the entire piece.

Mirror finish is ideal for:

• Bow rails and stern rails on sportfishing boats and yachts
• Anchor fairleads and visible deck hardware
• Cleats, bollards, and fittings
• Any stainless component where appearance matters

Brush Finish (Architectural Finish) Brush finish creates uniform, directional polishing lines using 120-180 grit belt or wheel polishing. The result is a professional appearance with a softer look than mirror polish.

Brush finish advantages:

• Hides minor scratches better than mirror finish
• Easier to maintain over time
• Professional appearance without high reflectivity
• Matches many OEM hardware finishes

Brush finish is appropriate for high-traffic grab rails, ladder treads and frames, components that see regular contact, and architectural or industrial applications.

Metals we polish:

• Stainless steel (304 and 316 grades)
• Aluminum (mill finish to polish)
• Brass
• Cast aluminum
• Bronze

Restoration services: Our polishers repair and restore existing metalwork. If your rails or hardware have scratches, oxidation, water spots, or dull areas, we can restore them to like-new condition. Restoration typically costs less than replacement and preserves original hardware.

H2: Our Metal Fabrication Process

Understanding our process helps you know what to expect when you contact us for a custom fabrication project.

Step 1: Consultation We discuss your project requirements, review photos or drawings, and determine materials and finish options. For complex projects, we may schedule an on-site visit to take measurements directly.

Step 2: Design and Templating For rails and fitted components, we create templates that match your boat's contours exactly. We confirm specifications before fabrication begins. Technical drawings are available upon request.

Step 3: Fabrication Our metalworkers cut, bend, and weld your components in our Riviera Beach facility. All welding is performed by experienced marine fabricators using appropriate techniques for stainless steel or aluminum.

Step 4: Finishing After fabrication, pieces move to our polish department for mirror or brush finishing. We inspect every piece before it leaves the shop.

Step 5: Delivery or Installation We ship completed work or coordinate installation at your marina. For anchor fairleads and other deck hardware, we offer professional installation services. For local customers throughout South Florida, we can install at your marina or boatyard.

Typical timelines:

• Simple components (rod holders, brackets): 1-2 weeks
• Standard rails and ladders: 4-8 weeks
• Anchor fairleads: In stock models ship within 1 week
• Sunfly poles: In stock models ship within 1 week
• Complex projects (full rail systems, structural work): 4-12 weeks

Timelines vary based on current shop workload and project complexity. Contact us for a specific estimate.

H2: Why Choose Canvas Designers for Metal Fabrication

In-House Fabrication Every piece is designed, fabricated, welded, and finished in our Riviera Beach facility. No outsourcing means better quality control, faster communication, and shorter turnaround times.

40+ Years in Marine Fabrication Canvas Designers has served the marine industry since 1985. Our fabricators understand saltwater environments, corrosion challenges, and the quality standards yacht owners expect.

35,000 Square Foot Facility Our shop has the equipment and space to handle projects from single components to complete rail systems for mega yachts. We maintain inventory of common stainless and aluminum stock for faster turnaround.

Custom Solutions Only We don't sell off-the-shelf parts. Every rail, ladder, fairlead, and component is built to your specifications and your boat's exact dimensions.

Quality Materials We use 316L stainless steel, marine-grade aluminum alloys, and carbon fiber. These materials are selected specifically for saltwater corrosion resistance and long-term durability. Our anchor fairleads feature black Delrin inserts for smooth operation and reduced rode wear.

Professional Finishing Our polish department delivers mirror and brush finishes that match or exceed OEM quality. We take finishing seriously because it's what you see every day on your boat.

H2: Frequently Asked Questions

What is custom metal fabrication for boats? Custom metal fabrication is the process of designing and building metal components specifically for a boat or yacht. This includes cutting, bending, welding, and finishing metals like stainless steel and aluminum to create rails, ladders, hardware, and structural pieces that fit your vessel exactly. Unlike off-the-shelf parts, custom fabrication produces components matched to your boat's dimensions and your specifications.

What materials do you use for marine metal fabrication? We primarily work with 316L stainless steel, marine-grade aluminum (5052 and 6061 alloys), and carbon fiber. 316L stainless offers the highest corrosion resistance for saltwater environments and is the standard for visible yacht hardware. Aluminum is chosen when weight reduction is important or for components that will be powder coated. Carbon fiber is used for specialized applications like our Sunfly shade poles where strength-to-weight ratio is critical.

What is 316 stainless steel? 316 stainless steel is an austenitic steel alloy containing chromium, nickel, and molybdenum. The molybdenum content (2-3%) provides superior corrosion resistance compared to 304 stainless steel, making it the preferred choice for marine applications. 316L is the low-carbon variant, which improves weldability without sacrificing corrosion resistance.

What is an anchor fairlead? An anchor fairlead is a deck-mounted guide that directs the anchor rode (chain or rope) cleanly over the bow of a boat. It protects the gel coat, deck surface, and toe rail from wear caused by the anchor chain. Canvas Designers anchor fairleads are fabricated from 316L stainless steel with black Delrin inserts and are available in removable (slide-out), deck plate, and fixed mounting configurations.

What sizes of anchor fairleads do you offer? We offer Standard and Extended sizes. Standard fairleads have clearing heights of 3.375" to 3.875" for boats with shorter toe rails. Extended fairleads have clearing heights of 7.625" to 8.125" for boats with taller toe rails or deeper anchor lockers. Each size is available in three mounting styles: Slide Out, Deck Plate, and Fixed.

What are Sunfly shade poles? Sunfly shade poles are boat shade poles designed by Canvas Designers to support shade sails and sun covers. They feature a 1-1/2 inch diameter to fit most rod holders, require no support straps, and are available in carbon fiber (powder coated or anodized) and powder coated aluminum. Sunfly poles are sold in pairs in 6 ft. and 8 ft. lengths.

Do Sunfly poles fit my rod holders? Sunfly poles have a 1-1/2 inch diameter, which fits most standard rod holders. If you're unsure about compatibility, contact us with your rod holder specifications and we can confirm fit.

How long does custom fabrication take? Turnaround depends on project complexity and current shop workload. Simple components like rod holders or brackets typically take 1-2 weeks. Standard rails and ladders require 4-8 weeks. In-stock anchor fairleads and Sunfly poles ship within 1 week. Complex projects like full rail systems or structural frameworks may take 4-12 weeks. Contact us for a specific timeline based on your project.

What is the difference between mirror finish and brush finish? Mirror finish creates a highly reflective surface with no visible grain lines, achieved by polishing to approximately 0.2 microns. Brush finish (also called architectural finish) has uniform directional lines created with 120-180 grit polishing. Mirror finish shows scratches more easily but looks more refined. Brush finish is more forgiving for high-contact applications and easier to maintain.

Can you match existing hardware finishes? Yes. We can match mirror polish, various brush finish grades, and satin finishes to blend new fabrication with your existing hardware. Bring us a sample piece or photos for comparison.

Can you repair or restore existing metalwork? Yes. Our polish department repairs scratched, oxidized, pitted, or dull stainless steel and aluminum. We can restore existing rails, hardware, and fittings to like-new condition. Restoration is often more cost-effective than replacement and preserves original hardware.

Do you fabricate for boats outside Florida? Yes. While we're located in Riviera Beach, we work with boat owners and yards throughout the United States and internationally. Anchor fairleads ship in protective bags or crates. Sunfly poles ship nationwide. For remote projects requiring custom fabrication, we work from detailed measurements, photos, and templates. We can coordinate with your local installer for fitting and installation.

Do you offer installation services? Yes. We offer professional installation services for anchor fairleads and other deck hardware throughout South Florida at marinas and boatyards. For customers outside our service area, we provide detailed installation instructions and can coordinate with your local marine service provider.

H2: Request a Quote

Every boat is different. Contact Canvas Designers to discuss your custom metal fabrication project.

Phone: 561-848-2111

Email: info@canvasdesigners.com

Location: 1500 Australian Avenue, Riviera Beach, FL 33404

Website: www.canvasdesigners.com

Hours: Tuesday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM

Our sales team can help determine specifications, materials, finish options, and pricing based on your boat and requirements. Technical drawings are available upon request for anchor fairleads and other products.