Fendermaker - Our Story And Materials
At Fendermaker, we specialize in crafting classic rope fenders for boats, designed to enhance both protection and style. Our fenders are not just functional; they also serve as beautiful decorative elements, perfect for creating a marine ambiance wherever you wish to highlight a nautical touch.
Our Story
Fendermaker was born from a deep passion for crafting fenders. The story began when our founder, Jimmy, stumbled upon an old fender in a boathouse. With a lifelong fascination for knots and ropes, he decided to learn this traditional craft and create his own fenders. This moment marked the beginning of Fendermaker—a company founded on the passion to create something beautiful, with the ambition to inspire boat owners to appreciate these stunning and eco-friendly fenders that add character and elegance to any boat.
Why We Do What We Do
Our mission is to revive the art of traditional rope fender making and to offer an alternative to conventional plastic fenders. While our fenders may require a bit more care than standard plastic ones, the reward is a product that elevates the aesthetics of your boat, enhances its individuality, and connects you to a rich maritime heritage. Our fenders are handcrafted using natural fiber ropes or poly-hemp for those who prefer a maintenance-free option.Handcrafted in Gothenburg, Sweden.
Made By Hand
Each fender is made by hand on the West Coast of Sweden, in Gothenburg, where the sea and the craftsmanship traditions inspire us daily. We take pride in our commitment to quality and sustainability, using only the best materials to ensure that each fender is both durable and beautiful.We ship our products worldwide, bringing a touch of Swedish maritime tradition to boat lovers around the globe. Whether you are looking to protect your boat or add a unique nautical flair to your decor, Fendermaker fenders are a timeless choice that combines function, beauty, and a passion for the sea.
#Materials - Natural fibers or Poly Plastic
Natural Manila Fiber
A fender made of manila rope is one of the best natural options for use in a marine environment due to its strength, water resistance, and durability. Manila rope, derived from the abacá plant (also known as Manila hemp), has been used for centuries in maritime applications.
Manila rope has good natural resistance to saltwater, meaning it does not degrade as quickly as many other natural materials. The fibers have a certain resistance to the effects of saltwater, which helps them remain durable in marine conditions.
Natural Jute Fiber
Jute rope is a traditional material often used in the production of classic rope fenders for boats. Jute’s natural fibers provide an authentic, rustic appearance that complements the classic aesthetics of traditional vessels. When used as a material for fenders, jute rope offers sufficient cushioning to protect the boat's hull from impact against docks or other vessels.
One key advantage of jute fenders is their durability, provided they are used correctly. As long as the fender is hung correctly above the waterline and allowed to dry thoroughly after exposure to moisture, its lifespan can be quite long.
Plastic Poly-Hemp
A fender made of poly-hemp rope is an excellent choice for boats in marine environments because it combines the appearance of natural hemp ropes with the benefits of modern synthetic materials. Poly-hemp is a synthetic fiber that mimics traditional hemp but with significantly better durability and resistance to weather and water.
Poly-hemp fenders offer the perfect balance of appearance and functionality. They are strong, durable, and low-maintenance, making them an excellent choice for boat owners who want the traditional look of hemp rope but with superior performance in marine environments.
Take Care Of Your Fender
When classic rope fenders made from natural fibers, such as jute or hemp, get wet for the first time, several changes occur. Initially, the fibers absorb water and swell, which can cause the fender to feel heavier and denser. This swelling effect can slightly tighten the weave or knots of the fender, making it firmer and more rigid. As the natural fibers absorb water, they may also temporarily darken in color, giving the fender a deeper, richer appearance.
However, prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to potential issues if not properly managed. The fibers can weaken over time if they remain wet for extended periods without adequate drying. Repeated cycles of wetting and drying can lead to brittleness, mildew, and eventual rot, reducing the fender's overall lifespan.
Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the fender is allowed to dry thoroughly after getting wet to maintain its integrity and extend its usability. Proper care will help mitigate the negative effects of moisture and preserve the natural beauty and functionality of the fender.
Our Story
Fendermaker was born from a deep passion for crafting fenders. The story began when our founder, Jimmy, stumbled upon an old fender in a boathouse. With a lifelong fascination for knots and ropes, he decided to learn this traditional craft and create his own fenders. This moment marked the beginning of Fendermaker—a company founded on the passion to create something beautiful, with the ambition to inspire boat owners to appreciate these stunning and eco-friendly fenders that add character and elegance to any boat.
Why We Do What We Do
Our mission is to revive the art of traditional rope fender making and to offer an alternative to conventional plastic fenders. While our fenders may require a bit more care than standard plastic ones, the reward is a product that elevates the aesthetics of your boat, enhances its individuality, and connects you to a rich maritime heritage. Our fenders are handcrafted using natural fiber ropes or poly-hemp for those who prefer a maintenance-free option.Handcrafted in Gothenburg, Sweden.
Made By Hand
Each fender is made by hand on the West Coast of Sweden, in Gothenburg, where the sea and the craftsmanship traditions inspire us daily. We take pride in our commitment to quality and sustainability, using only the best materials to ensure that each fender is both durable and beautiful.We ship our products worldwide, bringing a touch of Swedish maritime tradition to boat lovers around the globe. Whether you are looking to protect your boat or add a unique nautical flair to your decor, Fendermaker fenders are a timeless choice that combines function, beauty, and a passion for the sea.
#Materials - Natural fibers or Poly Plastic
Natural Manila Fiber
A fender made of manila rope is one of the best natural options for use in a marine environment due to its strength, water resistance, and durability. Manila rope, derived from the abacá plant (also known as Manila hemp), has been used for centuries in maritime applications.
Manila rope has good natural resistance to saltwater, meaning it does not degrade as quickly as many other natural materials. The fibers have a certain resistance to the effects of saltwater, which helps them remain durable in marine conditions.
Natural Jute Fiber
Jute rope is a traditional material often used in the production of classic rope fenders for boats. Jute’s natural fibers provide an authentic, rustic appearance that complements the classic aesthetics of traditional vessels. When used as a material for fenders, jute rope offers sufficient cushioning to protect the boat's hull from impact against docks or other vessels.
One key advantage of jute fenders is their durability, provided they are used correctly. As long as the fender is hung correctly above the waterline and allowed to dry thoroughly after exposure to moisture, its lifespan can be quite long.
Plastic Poly-Hemp
A fender made of poly-hemp rope is an excellent choice for boats in marine environments because it combines the appearance of natural hemp ropes with the benefits of modern synthetic materials. Poly-hemp is a synthetic fiber that mimics traditional hemp but with significantly better durability and resistance to weather and water.
Poly-hemp fenders offer the perfect balance of appearance and functionality. They are strong, durable, and low-maintenance, making them an excellent choice for boat owners who want the traditional look of hemp rope but with superior performance in marine environments.
Take Care Of Your Fender
When classic rope fenders made from natural fibers, such as jute or hemp, get wet for the first time, several changes occur. Initially, the fibers absorb water and swell, which can cause the fender to feel heavier and denser. This swelling effect can slightly tighten the weave or knots of the fender, making it firmer and more rigid. As the natural fibers absorb water, they may also temporarily darken in color, giving the fender a deeper, richer appearance.
However, prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to potential issues if not properly managed. The fibers can weaken over time if they remain wet for extended periods without adequate drying. Repeated cycles of wetting and drying can lead to brittleness, mildew, and eventual rot, reducing the fender's overall lifespan.
Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the fender is allowed to dry thoroughly after getting wet to maintain its integrity and extend its usability. Proper care will help mitigate the negative effects of moisture and preserve the natural beauty and functionality of the fender.