Thread Injector Buying Advice

[JabroniPrime]

I am ready to strap my DIY big boy pants and purchase a bona-fide sewing machine to start creating rain kilts, splash protectors, overquilts, and underquilts.

Any advice on machine brand/model, thread, and needles? What do you use for sil-nylon? Does any old machine do the trick? What models do you suggest for a DIY monkey on a budget? Any input is appreciated!

[bkrgi]

A working all metal older machine is a great place to start. Cheap and they do everything a DIY'er will ask of it in this world.
Mara 70 thread and a Universal 14/90 needle
And read read read the threads in this section...tons of info advice tips etc

[Kale Kale]

I was able to get an old all metal sewing machine given to me by asking on FB if any of my friends had an old machine taking up space. You'd be amazed at what people have just sitting around that they don't need/forgot about. Oiled it up a bit and she works just fine. Was even able to sew through webbing.

[krazykev111]

I currently use a Babylock thread injecting machine ($90 new) for anything light weight such as hammocks, tarps, UQ/TQ and general gear repair, Etc. You will easily make this money back by selling hammocks or not having to buy an $80-100 ENO and make it for less than $20.

I also have a 43 yo metal Kenmore machine ($25 at a yard sale) I use for gear making 2 and 3 layers of climbing webbing together.

Get the manual and learn to clean it, operate it, oil, Etc. Learn how to wind a bobbin, thread the machine, lock stitch, adjust thread tension, stitch width and length.... That is the basics.

Grab an old bed sheet or tshirt and practice. Make mistakes there instead of your good fabric. Nylon is slippery compared to cotton, but not bad. SIL Nylon takes practice.

Google stuff sacks patterns, make several to practice. Make a few gathered end hammock. Make your own whoopie slings and tree straps. Its fun!!!