Affordable DIY Boat Restoration
1960 Chris Craft 17′ Sportsman Restored with ColorBond LVP OE
When it comes to DIY boat restoration, few things are as satisfying as bringing a faded, weather-worn vessel back to life. Whether you’re restoring a classic wooden runabout or updating the interior of a modern cruiser, having the right products makes all the difference. ColorBond is designed for professionals but easy enough for DIYers. Our revolutionary products make it possible to achieve stunning, durable results without the high cost of professional reupholstering or refinishing.
A DIY boat restoration project can seem intimidating, but with the right tools, you can achieve impressive, factory-fresh results. Many boat owners are discovering that ColorBond LVP OE provides professional-grade finishes that hold up beautifully against marine environments. Instead of replacing vinyl seats, dashboards, or trim, you can restore them for a fraction of the price and enjoy the satisfaction of doing it yourself.
Real Customer, Real Results. Check Out this DIY Boat Refinishing Project
We never pass up an opportunity to spotlight a boat refinishing project – especially when it involves a vintage 1960 Chris Craft 17-foot Sportsman.
The owner of the boat, Robert Larsen, used six total cans of Vette Red and Sea Ray Cutty white to restore the dash and cushions. Red is especially prone to fading so this is perfect to show how ColorBond can bring the material back to pristine condition.
He spent under $100 for what normally would cost thousands!
As a member of the Antique and Classic Boat Society and Chris Craft Boat Club, Mr. Larsen has received many compliments on the boat. People can’t believe that everything on his boat is still 100% original and that ColorBond helped him restore the original glory. They all assume he bought replacement parts!
Take a look for yourself on the great work…
Before Restoration:
After Restoration
ColorBond vs. Traditional Spray Paint
When comparing ColorBond to traditional spray paint, the difference is night and day. Unlike paint, ColorBond is a molecular bonding coating engineered specifically for use on leather, vinyl, and plastic surfaces, the materials found throughout most boat interiors. Paint simply sits on top of the surface and can crack, peel, or fade when exposed to UV rays, water, and changing temperatures. ColorBond, on the other hand, chemically bonds to the surface for a finish that looks factory-applied and remains flexible even under harsh marine conditions.
For DIY boat restoration projects, durability and adhesion are key. ColorBond products resist cracking and peeling, and their UV stability ensures colors remain vibrant season after season. Traditional spray paint can’t offer that kind of resilience. With ColorBond, you get a finish that not only looks great but also performs in the demanding marine environment. That’s why so many boat owners consider ColorBond the superior choice for any interior DIY boat restoration projects.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Using ColorBond LVP OE on Boat Interior Surfaces
Transforming your boat’s interior with ColorBond LVP OE is simple. Whether you’re restoring faded vinyl seats, dashboards, or trim, these steps will help you achieve professional-level results on your DIY boat restoration project.
Step 1: Clean Thoroughly
Use ColorBond Prep Cleaner to remove any dirt, oils, or conditioners. Even if the surface looks clean, hidden residues can prevent proper bonding.
Step 2: Mask and Protect Surrounding Areas
Cover areas you don’t want coated with masking tape or paper to prevent overspray. Take your time to cover seams, trim, and hardware carefully. Proper masking keeps lines clean, saves you from touch-ups, and ensures a professional finish once the coating is applied.
Step 3: Apply ColorBond LVP OE
Shake the can well and spray several light coats, allowing a few minutes of drying time between each one. The key is to apply thin, even layers rather than heavy coats.
Step 4: Let It Cure
Allow the coating to dry completely before touching or reassembling parts. Once cured, the finish will look and feel like new. This process is quick, clean, and cost-effective. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to achieve professional results using ColorBond LVP OE.
Start Your DIY Boat Restoration with ColorBond Today!
There’s no better time to take on your DIY boat restoration project than right now. Whether you’re working on a classic like Robert Larsen’s Chris Craft or just want to freshen up your family pontoon, ColorBond makes it easy to achieve stunning results at home. With its advanced bonding technology, marine-grade durability, and ease of use, ColorBond LVP OE is the go-to solution for anyone serious about quality restoration work.
Don’t let fading, cracking, or discoloration ruin your boat’s appearance. Take control of your DIY boat restoration today and bring your vessel back to life with ColorBond. You’ll save money, preserve originality, and feel proud every time you hit the water. Explore our full range of color coatings and get started on your next project today.
