[Paddlewise] Searing Rip Stop Nylon

This is the technique I used to use, but these days I usually use a
soldering iron with a special cutting tip that I got from one of the
outdoor fabric stores -- probably Rainshed, if not Seattle Fabrics.
Because it cuts and sears the fabric at the same time, it saves a lot
of time.

Chuck Holst

 -----Original Message-----
From: Natalie Wiest [mailto:wiestn_at_tamug.tamu.edu]
Sent: Monday, April 12, 1999 3:23 PM
To: Jack Martin
Cc: paddlewise
Subject: [Paddlewise] Searing Rip Stop Nylon


Jack,

The way I seal the edges of the ripstop is pretty low tech:  I use a
standard wax candle in a candlestick holder (so I have both hands free),
and run the edge of the fabric right along the edge of the flame, or at
least close enough to melt the fabric slightly along every cut edge.    Just
like you would do the end of a nylon rope.  This is a bit trickier than   it
sounds and I have to admit that even with a lot of practice, I'll have
black smoke marks from place to place and if I'm really sloppy, I'll
occasionally catch the fabric on fire.  And keep your nose out of the   fumes
as much as you can - they're no doubt toxic too - but hey, don't hit it
that hard!  You only need enough to see that little melted edge.

I also try to hold the fabric up enough that I'm not looking at much of   the
flame - really gets to your eyes if you look at it too long.  I think   I've
seen suggestions of using a soldering iron all along the edges but   haven't
tried that technique myself.

Coated nylon is a bit less prone to fraying, but I'll often sear that as
well.

Happy cutting and sewing!

Natalie


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