Woodwork and Brightwork

SHROUD COVERS

During a trip to New England a few years back, I noticed a number of sailboats with wooden shroud covers/rollers. Being partial to anything wood, my interest was peaked, until I saw what they were selling for. Once home, I determined to make for for my Capri 26. I purchased 4 large diameter rack handles with tapered ends I split each in half length wise with a table saw and then routed a 1/4" grove, 1/8" deep on the flat side of each half (making sure that the paired halves stayed together). I also routed 1/2" wide by 1/8" deep grooves around the full outside diameter of the poles in 4 locations evenly spaced along the length of the poles (to provide for securing the two halves together around the shrouds). After staining the pieces to match the other woodwork on my boat, I saturated all sides with penetrating epoxy and then applied 6 coats of varnish. Most of the boats that I saw used black electrical tape to secure the 2 halves together at the grooves. I initially planned to be more traditional by using line to secure but ultimatly realized that electrical tape provided for easy removal and inspection. I installed with the tapered ends up. Not only do they look good but they eliminate possible sail bind/chafe on the shrouds as they roll. Total cost was $12.00.