Some clear vinyls are sensitive to scratching, as has been revealed in our multiple tests. And, if not protected from the sun, it can yellow and grow brittle over years. For years weve been directing readers to roll their clear plastic in cotton sheets to prevent scratching, but the patented Clearstow bag offers a more practical solution.
The patented Clearstow bag is constructed like a giant expandable folder with soft cloth dividers to keep the plastic separated. Once the windows are filed, Velcro closures and plastic clips keep the bag compactly rolled and easy to stow or transport. For storage, they can be laid flat.
Clearstow was designed for center console boat owners. The large curtains were a pain to roll up (rolling up any curtain often causes scratches) and hard to stow. Soon sailors requested them for their cockpit enclosures.
In warmer weather, many cruisers like to remove the side curtains because they wont need them again until winter. Measuring 44 by 53 inches, the bag will fit three curtains of average size. Custom size bags can be ordered.
We found the bag to be well made and easy to use. It is important to make sure that your windows are clean and dry before storing them. If dirt or salt accidentally gets in between the leaves, the bag can be vacuumed clean.
The Clearstow was developed by Dave and Marty Love of Johns Canvas in Beaufort, NC. First opened in 1956 by John Moore, the familiar canvas shop was purchased by Dave and Marty in 1993. The Clearstow retails for $118 on the Clearstow website.
I use tubular webbing as a chafe cover over braided nylon lines.
A line can be threaded through a short length of one inch webbing greatly
increasing the live span of an eye on the end of the line.