Sewing Machines

[Just Jeff]

Are you using good quality thread, Sandy? If not, that's the easiest fix to start with. I had problems like that with $.50/spool thread from Walmart and was about to throw my (wife's) machine through the window. I got some $5/spool thread and the problem immediately went away.

[Sandy B]

Just Jeff - You are right, I have been trying to use thread that was 2 spools for a dollar. I'll look for some better thread before my next try. The thread I have works fine on jean type material but go to some thin stuff and I have problems, I did get new needles and that did make it better but not great.

Thanks for the help
Sandy B

[Just Jeff]

I use Gutermann's thread. Expensive but worth it...I haven't had that problem since I switched. But even with the expensive stuff, I think I've only gone through 3-4 spools for all of my projects.

[blackbishop351]

I got the $12/cone stuff from Thru-Hiker. It's very possible that I'll NEVER run out of thread...

[Grinder]

While I was at WalMart I bought some #50 black thread. It said "Machine Quilting". I also bought some real sewing scissors (I can put away the machete now)

With the top tension a bit higher, I can sew a stitch successfully. I finished my segmented pad extender. I cut off the double wide part I had planned(8 pads total). I couldn't see that working. The double wide part kept folding under when getting in.

So, now I'm a sewing fool. time to try hemming.

Can I just fold once and sew-- or do I have to double fold and double stitch? ugly but serviceable is okay with me.

Tom

[Coffee]

I double fold and double stitch. One thing that works for me is making prototypes using $1yd cotton fabric before I use the more expensive ripstop. If I could sew better or knew what I wanted before I started, I might just go with it.

[Just Jeff]

Depends on the material. On DWR, one fold still leaves a raw edge exposed...it'll fray. It'll probably be fine for a while, but eventually the fraying will work through the hem. Just depends on how long you plan to use it.

But once you get the hang of rolling it under it really isn't harder than a single fold.

[headchange4u]

I have also found that needles will make a difference in a sewing machine. I was buying those cheap packs of needles that have several different sizes included from WalMart. They were constantly breaking, bending, tangling and breaking my thread. I thought my machine was out of adjustment. I bought a pack of the small Singer brand needles (they had a red coating on the back of the needle) and everything is great now.

I have sewn 2 hammocks, straps, and a couple of stuff sacks with the same Singer needle and I have had no glitches whatsoever. I would have gone through 2-3 needles in making 1 hammock if I had been using the cheap needles.

Just FYI.

[Grinder]

With my #50 machine quilting thread, my singer heavy duty needles and your advise, I was able to hem up a hammock without a hitch!!

It's 118" long and 58" wide double fold and double stitched . no problems. I pinned the hems, but I can see how, with enough experience, you could do it without pinning.

Then I folded it W style and zip tied it.

Of course, I had to hang it and try it ASAP. Boy can you get flat on a hammock this long!!!

I really need to pull the outside edges the 2 inches that "they" talk about. There is no real chance of falling out, but there is NO edge holding you in and saying "You're okay. Don't worry" .

I'll sleep in it tonight and decide tomorrow if it should be retied.

Thanks again for the advice.

Tom

[titanium_hiker]

Well Michele, there are at least two of us- except I don't sew, though I have in the past. I should remedy that, though... (remembering "kangaroo hopping" the machine- just like the car... LOL)

TH