Just bought my first sewing machine. An old metal machine. I am planning
on doing some canvass projects for my sailboat.

The reason I purchased the machine and got started on this is Don Casey.
He, in his many books, recommends doing numerous canvass projects as part of
any refit, etc.

Since I am a complete novice, if you have had experience with canvass
projects such as cockpit awnings, etc .. could you pass on some thoughts.
What worked, what didn't. Where did you purchase your material? Sunbrella?
How much should the Sunbrella cost me?

I looked on Ebay and there is much Sunbrella for sale. Is this the same
material as the more expensive priced goods I see other places?

If you have any good plans, or layouts, or know where I can get them?

Canvass, Sunbrella. Sails.. ??

I am starting out.

Thanks

NE Sailboat wrote:
Just bought my first sewing machine. An old metal machine. I am planning
on doing some canvass projects for my sailboat.

The reason I purchased the machine and got started on this is Don Casey.
He, in his many books, recommends doing numerous canvass projects as part of
any refit, etc.

Since I am a complete novice, if you have had experience with canvass
projects such as cockpit awnings, etc .. could you pass on some thoughts.
What worked, what didn't. Where did you purchase your material? Sunbrella?
How much should the Sunbrella cost me?

1. Use basting tape (2 sided very sticky tape) to hold big panels
together. Must easier than straight pins.

2. Use a big needle #16 and -69 polyester thread for canvas work.
Don't use nylon thread, it rots in the sun.

3. Sunbrella is nice but chafes easily and is expensive. It's also
not that waterproof after several years. We built an awning out of a
material like "Weblon" a vinyl coated polyester. Heavier than
sumbrella and totally waterproof.

4. Get your machine tuned up before any big project. SHould cost
around $40-50.

5. Lots of places to buy Sunbrella; check local fabric suppliers
before you have to pay for shipping from ebay or Sailrite.com. It's
often around $15/yd for the 60" stuff if you shop around.

Evan Gatehouse