Introduction
Sewing marine vinyl with a regular sewing machine might seem like a daunting task but there are a few tricks that make it easier. It is a tough material but when handled with care and with the right tools, sewing it can be done with excellent results. Marine vinyl is a must for many projects, from marine equipment to waterproof bedding. It is an ideal material for upholstery, sails, and covers for boats, docks and furniture, as it is hard-wearing, waterproof, UV-resistant and resistant to harsh marine environments. The durability of marine vinyl will ensure protection from sunlight and wear, meaning the creativity of a project is the only limit.
Marine Vinyl and Thread
Sewing marine vinyl is not like sewing any other material. It is a synthetic material, so regular thread will quickly fray, break, or melt when coming in contact with the hot needle of the sewing machine. It is important to choose the right thread and needle. Specialty marine thread that is made of polyester or vinyl-coated polyester will be the most compatible with marine vinyl. The thread should be UV resistant and able to withstand the tough marine environment. Similarly, the needle should be strong enough to pierce through the vinyl yet thin enough to keep the stitch small and tight.
Temperature and Foot
Using the right temperature is essential with marine vinyl to avoid melting and scorching the material. The temperature of the needle should be set to the lowest possible that will still be able to pierce the material. Testing the temperature on a small unnoticeable corner or sample will help get a feel for the ideal temperature. Having the correct sewing machine foot is also important for sewing marine vinyl. A teflon foot will help protect the needle from heat and friction, and is recommended for use with marine vinyl.
Preparing the Material
Marine vinyl is a thick material and the sewing machine might struggle to sew over thick items. To make sewing easier and to prevent the material from being pulled or torn, it is best to use interfacing with the vinyl at the seams. Interfacing helps to stabilize the material and makes it easier to feed through the needle. Fusible interfacing is a great option as it can be ironed onto the material and won’t add too much extra bulk.
Essential Steps
Before sewing, make sure the thread is threaded correctly and that the needle is well-suited for the material. Generally, a large needle will make puncturing the material easier and a smaller needle will produce a tighter stitch. Make sure the thread is compatible with the material, and set it to the correct tension. Test the temperature on a scrap piece and adjust it if necessary. Finally, make sure the presser foot is suitable for the material. Once all of these steps are checked and adjusted, marine vinyl can be sewing with ease.
Adding Trim
Adding trim such as piping, zippers or bias tape to marine vinyl can be tricky as the material is hard to puncture. It is best to finish the seam allowances before adding trim. This helps to reduce bulk in the seam and makes it easier to fit the trim. Low-temperature glue pens can also make attaching trim to marine vinyl easier, as they are more flexible than hot glue and won’t melt the material.
Conclusion
While sewing marine vinyl might be tricky, it is not an impossible task, with the right techniques, tools, and materials. Patience and close attention to detail are essential to achieve an attractive and durable finish. Knowing the best ways to sew marine vinyl can help to maximize the project’s potential while avoiding any disasters. With the proper know-how and experience, marine vinyl can be sewn with wonderful results.
Careful Fabric Selection
Fabric selection is an important part of the project and will affect both the sturdiness of the stitching and the durability of the finished product. Choosing a marine vinyl with a heavier weight will help ensure that it will last for many years. The marine vinyl should also be UV resistant, waterproof, and anti-fungal to prevent mold and mildew from growing. The liner should be inspected prior to cutting and sewing, with any holes filled and sealed and any seams sealed with special sealant.
Fine Tuning the Machine
The sewing machine should be serviced and adjusted before sewing. Ensuring the machine is in good working order and properly aligned is key for successful sewing of marine vinyl. Make sure to lubricate the machine and to adjust the tension as needed for the material. The stitch length should be set to the highest setting in order to maximize the strength of the seam.
Alteration Challenges
Altering pre-existing items such as a seat cushion or sail can be a challenge when it comes to sewing marine vinyl. When altering an item, it is important to map out the pattern accurately, so all of the pieces will line up perfectly when stitched. The pattern should be drawn on the vinyl and then, if possible, the edge finished with a serger or an overlock machine to prevent fraying.
Making Accurate Measurements
Accurate measurements are essential when creating something from scratch with marine vinyl. Measure twice, mark areas on the vinyl, and cut once. It is best to use a ruler and a rotary cutter to get smooth cuts that will help ensure accuracy and a beautiful finish. Extra fabric can be cut for seam allowances. Once everything is cut and ready, mark the pieces and the seams with tailor’s chalk or a disappearing marker.
Practical Considerations
Practical considerations must also be taken into account when tackling a project with marine vinyl. Where will the project be used? Will it be exposed to harsh weather environments or covered in a milder climate? The answer to these questions will help determine the type of marine vinyl and thread to use. Understanding the specification and the standard of the project is key to determine the types of fittings, snaps, buttons, and fasteners that will be required.
