Canvas repair/Sewing machine recommend?

F

FB400

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Joined
Mar 2, 2004
RO Number
12883
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28
Hello all -
My bimini top is coming apart at the seams. Not ripped but the stiching is coming undone. I need to sew the seam back together. It is probably 2.5 feet long. I don't wan't it to look like I did it by hand.

Can someone recommend an inexpensive sewing machine? I already have the thread I want to use - type 92 UV resistant.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks all.
Tom
 
Remove it and take it to a canvas shop. He already has the machine and the expertise. Cheaper then buying a new sewing machine!
 
Look for a vintage Singer. Most anything made before the late 1960's as these are all metal machines. Look around and you can usually find something inexpensive. I found one on Ebay for $20.00. Just make sure its in working condition as parts and a tune up can cost more than the machine is worth. Most machines take up to a size 18 needle which should work for V92 thread. Use a denim needle for Sunbrella.
 
I am with Flutterby unless you want get deeply involved in your canvas work. Sewing machines--- if you decide to purchase one, you will be dissapointed if it lacks a walking foot.

A few years ago I spent over $1500 for a Juki but I did all my own canvas. I purchased it for personal use, I have refused doing work for others here at the dock.

Foggy
 
Unless sewing is going to be a hobby, I would take it somewhere. I had every stitch redone, new velcro, and a couple of small tears on my cockpit cover; cost was $95 to have it done.
 
quote:
Originally posted by mandm1200

Unless sewing is going to be a hobby, I would take it somewhere. I had every stitch redone, new velcro, and a couple of small tears on my cockpit cover; cost was $95 to have it done.

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If you have it done be careful where you bring it. For example, some years ago I brought one of my sails to an upholstery shop. Their work lasted less than one year; they probably used nylon thread.
 
Bring it to a shop.......or...........http://www.heavy.com/video/64531
 
Tom, if this is just a one time repair for you and you have no intention of learning some canvas fabrication, take it to a shop and let them take care of it. I've done my own canvas repairs and made some canvas panels and its very doable. The pros use a heavy duty walking foot sewing machine, which is an expensive investment, but most repairs and some canvas work can be done with a home machine. As I said previously, get an old vintage all metal singer or pfaff. practice on some scrap canvas to get your stitching straight and get used to the machine. BTW, after getting the sewing machine, I used it for some other boat related projects and a lot of projects around the house.
 
This is the one:

dscf7817.jpg


Singer model 201. Check e-bay.

Size 18 needle and heavy UV protected thread. You may have to buy this on-line.
 
quote:
Originally posted by Flutterby

Remove it and take it to a canvas shop. He already has the machine and the expertise. Cheaper then buying a new sewing machine!

Click to expand...


I did this. Twice to two different shops. $80.00 per hour to sew over straight stitching that's already there!

So, I bought a machine. I can sew a straight line. Heck, I can make bags, etc.

My momma taught me how to sew so I could make rolled and pleated door panels for my 1953 Studebaker. That was a while ago!
 
I have a 201 singer a straight stich machine. Sews sunbrella fine and I made my bimini top and covers for almost everything on the boat that needs one.It paid for itself plenty of times.If I don't like the way it turns out I just change it.
 
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