Needle/thread question---old school fabrics.

[sargevining]

I'm looking to make a hammock, UQ, etc using old school fabrics such as cotton duck, denim, canvas, etc.

The hammock would be denim or duck, simple channel end and rolled hem along each side.

UQ/TQ would be quilted osnaberg with mattress ticking and faux leather channels at sides and ends.

There's a possible waxed canvas UQP and a tarp contemplated as well.

What would be the recommended needle/thread combinations for the above.

I figure that using those heavy fabrics, I'm better off with the 15/91 rather than the 401A, but some inout there would be appreciated as well.

[Scotty Von Porkchop]

I used gutermann mara 70 with a 110 needle on a couple of my canvas projects. It worked fine and seems strong but I've only been sewing a short time so it may well not be the best method.

[VictoriaGuy]

I'd recommend giving Sailrite a call or email.
The limiting factor (as you imply) will probably be the maximum needle and thread your machine can handle.
Some machines can handle more thickness under the presser foot than others as well...and it is adjustable on some machines...easy to check this by lifting the presser foot and pulling on the upper thread to see when the tensioner releases.

[The Old Boot]

I figure that using those heavy fabrics, I'm better off with the 15/91 rather than the 401A, but some inout there would be appreciated as well.

I've never had a contest with the two machines placed side by side but they both have presser foot adjustments.

I turn to the 401A for just about everything and while I've had to 'assist' the machine a couple of times when going through way too many layers of heavier denim, I've never had it fail on me.