Sewing an Awning?

"Polly Esther" schrieb im Newsbeitrag news: snipped-for-privacy@mid.individual.net...

Uh, which Berninas were that again? I keep forgetting everything these days; I'd even forget my head if it wasn't grown on. Personally, I would try it with my Aurora 440 QE, since it's a nice strong machine. However, I'd take it slow in those places where there are many layers of material.

U.

If I were going to do it, I'd go to one of my old cast-iron Singers set in a treadle. No motor to burn out, just a work-out for my feet and legs. A very sturdy and sharp needle (with lots on reserve for when this one gets dull) and away I'd go. But I hate long, straight seams, especially on an electric machine. I tend to wander. I do much better on a treadle, and I guess it's because I have enough going on to maintain my attention, whereas with the electric machine, it's just aiming and hoping not to get a broken needle or a thread jam. Obviously this is not for everyone. For one thing, not everyone has a treadle on hand.

Perfect job for a $10 yard sale Singer 15-91, especially since your Bernina hasn't been fond of sewing denim. Because it's gear driven, it's hard to break the belt that isn't there. And the adjustability of the presser foot pressure and availability of binder attachments is also helpful. Plus, they're easy to retime.

And yes, I've done awnings. Biggest hassle is wrestling the amount of fabric around. Start with the smallest one.

In any case, don't use thread bigger than v69 in home machines. Really does a number on the tensions. And have a sewing hammer handy for the lumps.

There's no treadle here although I would gladly make room for one. However - I did buy a Singer handcrank years ago. Since Mr. Esther is the fellow who had this bright idea, perhaps he would like to see if he could get her going. Thank you all. Your thoughts are very helpful. Polly

I think that IF I were thinking about doing this, I would attempt making the smallest one first, and NOT go ahead and purchase all the canvas at one time. Then if it doesn't work out I won't have all that canvas left over. Making the first one will give you lots of experience! Barbara in WET SC

Agreed. I suggest buying a minimum amount (an eighth of a yard?) of the fabric and testing how the machines handle multiple layers.

I would advice against it, but well what do I know.

You know a lot! :-)

Would you also advise against it for a Singer 401A? I have never tackled an awning, but I did make a terrycloth robe one time, and the underarm seam (flat felled) was 12 layers. Broke several needles, but I got the job done. Wish I had known then about hump-jumpers. It was a special BD gift for my Dad.

Beverly

Ron Anderson wrote: I would advice against it, but well what do I know.

Thank you, Ron. I will plan very carefully. The major thickness challenge I see is the four layers where the grommets go through. Maybe I can finagle that one with super glue or the staple gun. Want to come play at our house? I bake a fine banana nut bread.

It is a job best left for an industrial machine. Some machine with tweaking can handle the 69 thread but most will cough and spit.

Not so much the thickness of the material as the thread.