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Post by xiaolichen1988 on Nov 22, 2015 2:29:42 GMT -8
I bought Singer 4423 heavy duty sewing machine,it works great,i think. First time to use a sewing machine, love it. I sewed a chair kit . i think it is really nice to sit on it. I guess if i want to use it outdoor, i should use some waterproof fabric instead of my pillow cover. Any one who love to make their own gear? any suggestions for me to learn how to sew a tent or other items? Love to learn more about sewing.   |
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Nov 22, 2015 3:56:43 GMT -8
After sewing by hand since I was a kid, I bought a Brother LS-2125 sewing machine several years ago. It is simple and makes only straight line and zig-zag stitch patterns. Some of the things I've sewn for backpacking include: Often I don't sew an entire garment, but I have done so. Usually I merely make alterations to gear or clothing for a better fit, hem up pant legs, add a pocket here or there, put in new elastic, repair torn seams, and things like that. I bought a simple machine that is easy to use and easy to maintain. It has been very useful. I have not tried to sew a tent or tarp yet. I mostly just sew to customize clothing and gear and make repairs. Being able to sew things myself adds an extra dimension of self-reliance. And the things I sew I use quite often afterwards. |
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swmtnbackpacker
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Back but probably posting soon under my real name ... Rico Sauve
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Post by swmtnbackpacker on Nov 22, 2015 8:25:27 GMT -8
The Jardines (climber turned ultralight distance backpacker Ray Jardine and his wife Jenny) offers kits which may be useful in guided practice evaluating designs as the fabrics may be a bit different (especially dyneema grid and non-wovens like Cuben fiber). I'd use a tarp in summer below treeline but they also offer insulated hat designs/material. From there you can explore you own designs I would think. BPL has some MYOG designs but again ultralight is best for summer designs (though I'd think a sil-nylon pyramid would work in lower 48 state winters). Sketch-up can be helpful if you know that but there are free plans in the web, plus other plans/kits for purchase.
Some have made it into small shops - not saying you want to make it into a biz but to give you an idea of the designs out there (Mountain laurel designs, Zpacks, Zimmerbuilt, Luke's ultralight, Laufsbusche - Germany, Lotus Gear - Japan)
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Post by Lamebeaver on Nov 22, 2015 11:39:47 GMT -8
You might want to see if your local library has a copy of "Sew and Repair Your Outdoor Gear by Louise Lindgren.
I find a sewing machine very useful for a number of things. While there's something to be said for being able to say "I made it myself", you can probably buy a decent tent for less that it would cost you to buy the materials. Now if your're interested in sleeping under a tarp-tent, you can find several instructions for this on the Internet.
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rebeccad
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Post by rebeccad on Nov 22, 2015 13:49:47 GMT -8
Having a sewing machine and knowing how to use it, even for simple repairs, is great! I have an antique straight-stitch machine, so have to take some things to my Mom or MIL for a zig-zag.
Big thing to know about sewing different fabrics: look up the guide in your instructions for what needle to use with each, because it matters, a lot. And be sure you install the needle the right way--that matters, too, as in it won't work at all if the needle is backwards.
Lots of fabric shops offer basic sewing classes, which aren't about outdoor gear, but will help you learn fast what your machine can do.
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Post by xiaolichen1988 on Nov 22, 2015 15:05:46 GMT -8
:)thank you all for great informations.
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