Bag Repair

Its not technically diy, but I'm attempting to fix my brand new REI bag (that I can't exchange since they no longer have the item in stock).

There's a small tear on a seam in the floating lid, & I'm going to finally conquer my fear of the evil sewing machine! I'm sure I should take a class, but just figured I'd look for an easy answer...any specific thread I should be using? Any other important advice? If all fails, my mother in law is visiting through the weekend, & she knows her way around that demonic device!

Most stores sell general purpose thread, which may be a bit weak, but any Polyester thread will do.

Half the battle is good thread. After some major issues caused by cheap thread, I now only buy Gutterman's. . . . Given that the material is not thin, a denim needle is probably a good call...

1/2 the battle is having the nerve to give it a try!

John

+1 on John's advice on using Gutterman's thread.

If you are new with the sewing machine, try practicing a bit; don't just dive in. But this sounds like a really good project to learn on.

Don't fear the sewing machine. Love it. It is your friend.

Michael (SoCal Mike)

Thanks for the recommendation! I'll watch my MIL then start practicing. I'm always jealous seeing all the amazing diy projects on here

Just a thought... As you are practicing, try to use the same/similar material that the floating lid is made from in order to get your tension correct. Once you have your injector adjusted just go for it. A seam ripper can always undo slight faux pas.

I use a sewing awl to modify my gear, easy to use and can be handy for getting into the tight spots that a machine might not. For example http://www.rei.com/product/602118/sp...her-sewing-awl A standard #16 sewing machine needle fits into my awl. You will still need some good thread though.

A small rip can be repaired with a needle and thread. Most machines come with a book that shows a bit about how to sew. There are also good videos here on hammock forums. Read the book and watch some video and then practice. Most of my DIY stuff has been long straight seams. A long seam is just a bunch of short seams. A crooked seam holds as well as a straight one. Good luck.

its only a bag, so there's likely little stress. Practice hand sewing with a $1 needle kit for 10 minutes. then have at it with the tear in the bag itself, your stitch now regular and even from the practice.

More of us spend more time at the keyboard or screen with HF posts that could have been more usefully spent developing skills, practicing sewing, with needle and thread.