Bill; My Winter project was finally making that sun shade I've wanted for my M-15. I studied the various fabrics, and chose Sunbrella because of durability, and also because I found a deal on an end of roll from a local shop I like. Same thing as previous post: reinforced pockets for tent pole glass battens, tabs for corner tie downs, and lift loop for the middle, ties fore and aft for tautness, and (hopefully) enough flexibility to rig it several ways. I don't plan to use it underway, I made it big enough to cover the hatch, and left room to stand at the stern if desired. It's just wide enough for a fair chance at rain drainage too. We'll see! Oh, battens out and folded, it's about the size of a stadium blanket. Ron Stanton, in warm and sunny Michigan. Really! M-15 #249 In a message dated 3/20/2012 9:55:19 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, billwick@gmail.com writes: We want to get a cockpit canopy made, or make one ourselves. I have pored over various pictures of M-boat gatherings looking at the different setups. I think some stiff battens or PVC conduit will work across each end, and a lift loop in the centre for the halyard. I have a real nice picture of what I recall is Larry Yake's "Corn Dog" at anchor. Question is what fabrics have people used, or like. Choices are Sunbrella (or similar) or Nylon. Sunbrella fabric gives very good shade. Not sure how bulky it would be to stow. Nylon, depending on the weight, may give some glare, but will roll up very compactly. Opinions anyone? Thanks. Bill