The Journey of Ship Shape Sewing: Transforming Boats and Our Lives

In 2016, Katherine and Peter Olmstead brought home a used 18-foot Crownline bowrider. It was a beautiful, well-built boat, but it had one small problem: the seats had seen better days. For many, that might have been the end of the story. But for Katherine, it was just the beginning.

A Passion for DIY Projects

With a background in interior design and a lifelong love of DIY projects, Katherine rolled up her sleeves. She set up her home Janome sewing machine at the kitchen table. Recovering bow and sundeck seats on a household machine? Most would have said it couldn’t be done. But stitch by stitch, panel by panel, she transformed those worn-out cushions into something spectacular. When the boat hit the water that summer, it didn’t just turn heads — it sparked an idea.

Building a Community

Living in Port Severn on beautiful Georgian Bay, boating isn’t just a pastime — it’s a way of life. Neighbours and friends soon began asking Katherine for small repairs. A torn seam here, a weathered cover there. Word spread quickly through the marina docks and cottage gatherings. What started as a simple project became a steady side hustle, fueled by passion and pride in craftsmanship.

Seizing Opportunities

In 2020, while visiting a small marine fabrication shop on 3 Mile Lake to purchase fabric, opportunity knocked. Katherine and Peter took a leap of faith and purchased the entire business. What began with one worn-out bowrider seat became Ship Shape Sewing — a full-service marine fabrication boutique serving the local boating community.

Crafting Custom Solutions

Today, Ship Shape Sewing designs and creates custom boat tops, covers, and seating tailored to each client’s vision and vessel. From weekend cruisers to cherished family runabouts, Katherine and Peter pour the same care into every project as they did into their very first boat. They understand that each boat tells a story, and they strive to enhance that narrative with their craftsmanship.

The Heart of Ship Shape Sewing

Nearly ten years later, they’re still inspired by the sunsets over Georgian Bay and the stories shared by fellow boaters. Because for them, it’s never just about fabric and thread — it’s about helping families feel proud of the boats that carry their memories.

In conclusion, the journey of Ship Shape Sewing exemplifies how passion can transform not just a boat, but also a community. By embracing opportunities and nurturing relationships, Katherine and Peter have built a business that resonates with the values of quality and care. They are committed to ensuring that every boat they work on is not just a vessel, but a cherished part of their clients' lives.

For those seeking top-tier custom marine canvas, upholstery, and detailing services, Ship Shape Sewing stands ready to ensure vessels are protected and look their best for years to come.

Ships Shape Sewing is a marine canvas, boat upholstery shop located in Port Severn on beautiful Georgian Bay. We manufacture and repair Boat Tops and Windows, Boat Covers, Seat Upholstery and marine flooring.