What tricks do you use when DIY'ing?

**xxl_hanger** · 02-14-2015, 07:07

I found by random an almost brilliant solution for designing my small mock hammocks: polythene trash bags, transparent, very light and cheap, about 26" long. Now I scaled up my WBBB clone plans with Photoshop correspondingly in such a way that 135" = 54cm (scale 6.35:1), 2.5"= 1cm, 1" = 0.4cm or 1/4" = 1mm. I can print out the plans and stick it together. Then I can make my adjustments on paper and copy the outlines on the transparent plastics. This approach seems to work fairly good and promising. Even for planing the bugnet this solution can be used.

The nicest thing with this method is, that I can adjust my mock hammocks already with baby pins. It should be relatively easy now to find a good solution for the foodbox/shelf layout, improve my plans and get my project finished. I think the thin polythene simulates ripstop nylon quite well or has at least almost the same sag then my hammock will have. My ridgeline for the first mock hammock will be 17" (108"/6.35).

**Pag** · 02-14-2015, 12:07

When I'm having an especially difficult time with a section of a seam with two thin and slippery fabrics I put them in the freezer for 20-30 minutes before sewing. Cold silnylon is more rigid than room temp silnylon and if I have twenty to thirty minutes to calm down after ripping a seam for the second time I find I sew better too. It only lasts for 5-10 minutes but I can pin and freeze it, calm down and sew the seam perfectly almost every time.

For seam sealing I have found that a damp sponge wiped on the outside edges of where you want the sealer to go makes it very easy to get clean lines. It doesn't take long and gives a much more professional look. Silicone seam sealer doesn't stick right away to damp fabric so just wipe away the excess with paper towel quickly.

**Spark** · 02-16-2015, 09:24

One I have found useful is moistening the eye of the needle instead of moistening the thread. Try it!

**Firesong** · 02-16-2015, 09:34

I got my tongue stuck on the needle... Darn sewing machine.

**latriper** · 02-16-2015, 15:39

Originally Posted by Firesong

I got my tongue stuck on the needle... Darn sewing machine.

**latriper** · 02-16-2015, 18:04

Found another retractable cord for my lighter.
uploadfromtaptalk1424127846370.jpg

**echowit** · 02-16-2015, 22:36

LOL. My undoing is "gasification" wood stoves from tin food cans. How many do I really need I wonder.

As to the trick; I saw your soldering gun idea and adapted it to use the "angled blade" insert on my wife's woodburning tool to cut sport nylon and ripstop. You're right--No fraying.

Thanks to [o]tter (Post #23)

**meckelangelo** · 02-16-2015, 22:44

Originally Posted by latriper

Found another retractable cord for my lighter.
uploadfromtaptalk1424127846370.jpg

Holy crap... I think you just changed my life...

**meckelangelo** · 02-16-2015, 22:46

I've got one to share, too... Instead of a pin cushion, I have a magnetic wrist band. You can pick one up at almost any hardware store; mine came from Harbor Freight. It's supposed to be used for small screws and stuff like that, so that you don't lose them. My wife got it for me for Christmas, and it's easily seen the most use of any of my gifts. I don't have to stow pins between my lips any longer!