Since buying Escapade, Martin and I have learnt so many new things and developed a range of skills that we would never have imaged we would need to.
Sewing
Those of you who know me well, know that I have never been particularly into the more traditional household skills of cooking and sewing, but, on the boat, needs must.
So, I took the plunge and invested in a second hand sewing machine. This was to open up a whole new world…
Starting with simple things, I have had a go at rectangular bags for clothes storage and then moved on to some curtains for the back cabin. Next on the list are curtains for the saloon and hatch covers. When I get brave, I will make some winch covers (harder because they are cylindrical!).
Then Martin has a list…a pedestal and wheel cover and also  one for our dinghy. They may have to wait a while!!
Bread Making
The current lock down situation has been ideal for practising provisioning for three or four week passages; what to buy, where and how to store it and being inventive with ingredients when we can’t get exactly what we want.
I have also had the chance to start bread making – once I could buy the ingredients!
I was quite impressed with my first attempt.
Mast climbing
This was one I have been putting off as I was little nervous! I am not good with heights and will never walk on glass floors in high building – it makes my stomach turn just thinking about it. But, it did need doing.
We have been watching the riggers when they go up the mast and taken their advice on harnesses and lines. So the time came to try it ourselves. For the first time, we chose a calm day with no wind so the mast would be fairly still. We checked the lines, fittings and harness and Martin started winching. I didn’t actually have to climb , just sit back in the harness and be slowly raised up.
The top of the mast is about 20m above the water, so you get a good view from the top!
My I am impressed with your new skill base. They will help to pass the time while your at sea.
Take care and stay safe.
Hello to you both,
Hope you and the family are well.
It has been a massive learning curve and very different from the day job….I don’t miss it at all!
x
Looks like you have it all sewn up! It’s very satisfying learning new skills – good to see you have mast-ered your acrophobia!
Certainly keeps the mind active!
Your sense of humour has not been effected then!!!
Well done you, Martin you could get a motor to winch Caron up there, just a thought..
Hi,
He didn’t do it by hand…he used the electric winch!!
x
Looks Great ! Well done – If you need some space to mark anything out, you are welcome to use the Elite Yacht Covers Loft – You might pick up some helpful tips as well 🙂
Sewing looks Great Well done !
If you need some space to mark anything out, you are welcome to use the Elite Yacht Covers Loft – You might pick up some helpful tips as well – Best regards Paul.
Thanks Paul,
I will definitely take you up on that! I have already been picking Joe’s brains about canvas and thread and will be emailing an order through soon.
I have also been taking pictures of the Bimini modifications and side screens so I can use them on a post later (once solar panels are on). When I post, I will also add a link to your website.
Caron
Fantastic Caron, although you’ve done well to be able to find flour to make bread!
There are just so many things that need consideration for your trip… A sewing machine just doesn’t seem like something you’d need, but of course it is.
Keep up the good work xxx
Hi Daisy,
Yes it was challenge finding all of the ingredients…It took several weeks!
The sewing machine has been useful already. Since the blog, I have also made a laundry bag (very useful for going to the laundrette) and cut down a kingsized duvet cover to fit a double duvet…
Very different from my previous life!!
Hope you are all well.
xx