Got tips on holding sil-nylon?

**Karl B. Andersen** · 08-06-2011, 11:39

I am making my own sil-nylon tarp to my own dimensions. I have the 1.3oz material.
I really didn't know how slick this stuff is until I got it.
What material is best to hold the seams in place prior to and during sewing?
An adhesive or tape?
I'm just looking for something to help during lay-out and have the basic seams in place so as not to need to chase the stuff all over the table while sewing.
Hope that makes sense.

**hippofeet** · 08-06-2011, 13:15

I have some walmart heat bond iron on sew through tape that works well on urethane coatings, not so sure about the sil. But it really helps on slick things like ribbon and nylon. Make sure the tape is sew through. Otherwise you get a gummy ball, or a jam.

**Boothill** · 08-06-2011, 13:21

pins are your friend

boot

**Timberrr** · 08-06-2011, 13:25

I just did a project with ripstop that may not be as slick as sil but it's slick enough. I found it tremendously helpful to get someone to help you. An extra set of hands can put the pins in (lots of them) while you hold the fabric in place.

Plus there's a perk... if your lady helps you make the equipment, she is more likely to be open to accompanying you on a trip.

**olddog** · 08-06-2011, 15:19

Just finished sewing a diy tarp out of an unknown fabric, light and slick. Lay it on the table turn around and it's on the floor. Had the ironing board out to press some seams, found that I could pin the fabric to the board while rolling, pinning and pressing. PITA but it looks like I may end up with a 12' hex tarp at under 16 Oz, 10.6 oz before diy sil treatment.

**Rat** · 08-09-2011, 13:00

I use hem clips, I HATE PINS! Not because of the little holes they leave behind in my Sil-Nylon; but for the holes they leave behind in my fingers...

Dritz Hem clips

**cmuthig** · 08-09-2011, 20:10

With silnylon, I like to just use a normal glue stick to keep the movement down. Then I don't have to worry about the iron or putting any extra holes into the material. Pins will hold it better, but so far, I've had no problem with a glue stick. Once you finish the project, any seen glue will just rub off.

**dandeman** · 08-09-2011, 21:18

i do not use anything, i just roll as i go, but you could use things like paperclips or bobbypins...just a thought...
-Dan

**KerMegan** · 08-09-2011, 21:52

small black office binder clips..12 in a box for a buck or two..just keep them dry.

**jima59** · 08-10-2011, 19:12

I'm interested in which kind or brand you used. Was it for paper or is there a fabric kind. I use straight pins for holding the material together. As to keeping it from falling onto the floor I use weight bowls and cups and move them as need be. Finished my tarp last weekend, not a thing of beauty as to hem straightness but it will work for me.