Building a sofa for Carver 355

[Sailor Jerry]

I plan to replace the original sofa in my 355 this winter. The old sofa is somewhat worn, but the biggest complaint I have is its so heavy. As you know, one has to move the sofa to service the port engine. I cannot lift it and have to take it apart (partially) to move it. I plan to build a sectional replacement. Does anyone have any experience doing this?

Unless someone sends me a plan, I will create my own plan and build a sectional replacement. I intend to design and build a frame; cover it and have the cushions made professionally. The area I live in (northeast Mississippi) is home to several furniture factories. There are plenty of skilled folks around who should be able to help make this come off okay. If there is any interest, I will make photos of the project and post here for anyone interested.

[mjk1040]

Maybe a couple reclines instead?

[Sailor Jerry]

I thought about buying another sofa or recliners, but they have to fit through the companionway, and I want storage under (like my sofa has).

[Dymonddan]

I am very interested in your project.
I need to replace the couch in my 355 as well. Do you have a lower helm?

[km1125]

No matter what, definitely do PICTURES!!

I have an older 3607 and replaced the seats that were in there. I made it into two sections that you can pull together to make a bunk when the couch is folded down flat. Otherwise, they're at 90 degrees to each other with a table in between. I built boxes for the storage underneath.

I wish I would have used some type of "pinned" hinge that you could pull apart easily for the seats on top of the boxes. It would be much lighter and easier to move around. I have three screws you have to remove to pull the hinge support off, then you can remove the seats from the base. I do that sometimes for the off-season, because then I can move them to the v-berth or aft cabin to empty the salon for more workspace.

[Sailor Jerry]

Dymonddan, I do have a lower helm. I will need to leave some room there, or somehow allow for easy use of that feature.

[RGrew176]

Sounds like an interesting project. And like posted above, pictures please.

[quickdecision]

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