Poor mans sewing awl - it works :)

Challenge:

On my backpack I noticed a bad seam on the top lid, one compartment was prone to leaking its contents... The lid has layered compartments, so using a sewing machine could be difficult. The fabric is medium cordura.

Solution:

A recent thread on this forum (i belive) mentioned a Sewing awl. I don't have one so I improviced as mentioned in thread. Google found me this example of DIY awl.

I simply took a smal piece of wood (1,5 inch of broomstick handle), drilled a smal hole and glued a sewing machine needle in the hole.
Standard sewing machine cotton thread was used.

Then I "youtubed" how to use an Awl and set off to work on the backpack.

Result:

It worked. Using the instructions it was easy to make a "neat" and strong stich through the cordura. The backpack is operational again.
My DIY awl is going to have a permanent place in my repair kit :) It weights next to nothing and is a good tool for field repair of any textile.

ps
I have slimmed down the broomstick handle ;)


Harstad

Just goes to prove the old saying "where there is a will there is a way".

Nice one. A side benefit is you can use a smaller gauge needle and thread than the speedy stitcher. If I was carrying something like that I would be tempted to drop it in something like a cigar tube with the thread to protect the needle from breakage and everything else from getting punctured.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by nothermark

Nice one. A side benefit is you can use a smaller gauge needle and thread than the speedy stitcher.

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Good observed. I'd rather repair my gear with an appropriate cotton thread than with the king size line intended for leather and hide sewing.

My next project is to shorten and hem a German flectarn field parka, that is long as a coat. Maybe I should put the DIY awl to the test :)



Harstad

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Harstad

I simply took a smal piece of wood (1,5 inch of broomstick handle), drilled a smal hole and glued a sewing machine needle in the hole.
Standard sewing machine cotton thread was used.

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I did something similar with a bic pen and a sewing machine needle. Same result, and I can use the pen cap to cover the needle.

I have to say I'm not nearly as good at using it as you are.