Re: [Paddlewise] do it yourself wetsuits.

Arthur Hebert wrote:
  Does anyone have any ideas on a brand and model sewing
> machine that could handle neoprene and  heavy nylon?
> Duane, if you decide to instruct sewing classes sign me up!  

I was recently given an singer 210-12 industrial machine primarily to do
the upholstering in our furniture.  I had to do a bit of work to get it
up and working, bu it is a rather nice straight stitch machine.  My
partner thought we should have a walking foot machine so we decided to
find out the price with trade in of this one.  The singer place said
that it wasn't worth more than about 120. US.  thought they may be
available fairly cheap around you as well.

This machine had no problem sewing through a VERY heavy woven strap for
the tow belt I just constructed as well as the rip stop nylon bags
(opposite ends of the spectrum in fabric 'cept both were slippery). 
Even fed nylon thread with no difficulty.  It does not have the ability
of a zig zag, which would be seemingly appropriate for fleece if you
don't have an overlock machine.  the overlock that I have (White-color
and manufacturer, 4 thread) is not really good for woven stiff frayable
fabrics, though i used to use it on them for it's trim capabilities as a
support for a straight stitch.  The overlock may be just fine for
neoprene because of the fabrics sponginess, it may pull the thread
tight.

Kayak-wear could inspire a lot of tool buying.

Gabriel L Romeu
http://studiofurniture.com    ------------------>   furniture
http://users.aol.com/romeugp  ------------------>   paintings, prints,
photos and stuff
http://members.xoom.com/gabrielR   ----------->   A Daily Journal of
Observations
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