New thread injector question

[NJTroutstalker]

So I went to raid my moms for her old thread injector. I remember she had a big heavy in a case style from the early 70's. Well somewhere along the way she got rid of it. So she tells me she has this:

ImageUploadedByTapatalk1392216648.575431.jpg

It's little and only does straight stitches. I want to try a tarp, so my question is this: am I set up for failure?

Similar unit:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0006SKYI4

I've thread injected before. So some experience. If the tarp comes out acceptable, I'll find something on Craigslist. Worth a try?

[meckelangelo]

So I went to raid my moms for her old thread injector. I remember she had a big heavy in a case style from the early 70's. Well somewhere along the way she got rid of it. So she tells me she has this:

ImageUploadedByTapatalk1392216648.575431.jpg

It's little and only does straight stitches. I want to try a tarp, so my question is this: am I set up for failure?

Similar unit:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0006SKYI4

I've thread injected before. So some experience. If the tarp comes out acceptable, I'll find something on Craigslist. Worth a try?

I'll speak only for myself here, but when I make hammocks, I only ever use straight stitches. Same goes for the tree straps. I use x-boxes for added support on stress points. As long as it has a reverse function, you should be fine.

[Mountnman]

I think your fine to make a tarp, something's you may want to make at some point will do good to have a zig zag

[Ramblinrev]

`Be prepared to chase that thing all over the table. It is very lightweight and it will move around on you. Straight stitch is no proble3m and even if there is no reverse there are work arounds. But you might find the long seams of a tarp will heat it up pretty fast. It is not a workhorse but if your expectations are in line it might be servicable.

[Debi Jaytee]

I've only ever used a straight stitch on anything I've made. If I need more strength somewhere, I just sew back and forth a couple of times.

[gmcttr]

Given no other options, I would expect to be able to make a tarp with it. It may or may not be a bit frustrating to use, but should get it done (and the price is right).

I suggest using a "standard weight" thread such as Gutermann Sew All.

Hint...clamp a board or something behind it to hold it in place.

[VictoriaGuy]

There's no harm in giving it a try, I suppose. Will you have to 'buy' the machine if you break it?
Most of the sewing for a tarp doesn't require a very tough machine, though sometimes the loops for guylines can involve sewing several layers.

This is part of the description I found for your linked machine:

Simple, compact sewing center comes pre-threaded and ready to use
Thread-tension knob; adjustable stitch length; reverse sewing option
2 sewing speeds; built-in sewing light; 100-piece accessory kit included
Operates using provided AC/DC adapter or 4 AA batteries (not included)
Measures 4 by 7 by 7-1/2 inches

OK as a 'no-conditions' loaner, but not something I would mess with. But, I am a tool addict...

[gmcttr]

...This is part of the description I found for your linked machine:...

Wow...even smaller than I thought. The good part about trying it is that it may expedite you purchasing a good machine.

[Ramblinrev]

OK as a 'no-conditions' loaner, but not something I would mess with. But, I am a tool addict...

If it won't cost you anything, what have you got to lose. But I wouldn't spend any money on a similar machine and I would have cautioned your mom about buying too. However, as a free loaner the price is right.

Just be aware that for center seams on the tarp you are going to have precious little space to the right for all that fabric. That's not to say it can't be done, but you will have a challenge doing a flat-felled/folded french seam where you have to open the tarp up and sew down the middle of the joined fabric. You can block it into place so you don't have to chase it, but you need to pay special attention to that blocking apperatus so it doesn't catch on the fabric and creat a situation where you are catching extra folds under the presser foot. That's easy enough to do with a tarp on a full sized machine, let alone a miniature model.

[Bubba]

Wow, you can operate it on 4AA batteries. Worth a try? Sure. To use on an actual project? No. For me, if you can swing it, I'd buy something more full size. Have you checked your local thrift stores? A good simple machine is out there if you are willing to look and/or put some time into it. I would be worried about potentially damaging material or at least accidentally sewing things you don't want to be as Rev mentioned. Just my opinion. Good luck!