Quote: Originally posted by Trevor Holloway on 03/8/2011
I need to sew a couple of patches on my folding camper but am at a bit of a loss as to what type of needle & thread to use.
I've searched the forum (all relevant sections I think) with no luck.
I think I need a curved needle as my arms aren't 10' long and will be working from the outside.
Does anyone have any suggestions as to what to get ?
Thanks
If it is big can tent valeting help you. Do not forget to waterproof not only the patches but after you have done them as we had a new tent that the material was dipped before being made into a tent and when they cut & sewed the tent the stitching became non-waterproof and leaked until they took it all back and re-proofed it. Nowadays the newer canvas is not the same as the old and if it does not need proofing i.e if it don't leak leave it alone. But your stitching through it so that part will need something done.That is all I have as how to do it myslef I cannot.
I've always used Gutermann strong thread for canvas. Never got on with a curved needle myself. I used a strong ordinary needle & got hubby to stand outside, whilst I stood inside & we passed the needle back and forth.
If it is tears which you are patching, hold the tear together (in it's natural position) with tape before you sew the patch on, otherwise you will have trouble with it moving & not looking quite flat when it's patched.
Would it be possible to use tenacious tape to effect a repair? It's certainly much easier than sewing a patch on, as it sticks very well. It's also waterproof.
Trevor,these awls are good, same stich as a sewing machine.I've stiched an 8ft6in zip in using one.I bought it from www.brianparkcamping.co.uk don't know if they still do them Jock
i have put a few patches on my canvas , i bought 1mtr of waterproof canvas from ebay €13 inc p+p to rep of ire. i cut it to size and glue it on with coppydex glue i have a patch on both sides and it works perfect so far and is 100% waterproof , im not sure if its reccommended to use this method but it works for me and is done in no time at all .
Tried three local marinas (I am near the Thames so there are quite a few around) and managed to get some green whipping twine, strong waxed cotton for sails / boat canopies but no awl. Bought a set of assorted needles but decided against stiching at this stage.
What I ended up doing was as follows :
Patch of canvas was hemmed to make neat edges and glued using Bostik General Purpose glue with the edges stuck down with Bostik Sew Simple http://www.bostik.co.uk/diy/product/bostik/Sew-Simple/18 - initial trial on off cuts were promising with regards to strength and being waterproof should be weatherproof too.
Have patched eight of the ten frame corners on the folding camper and was pleasantly surprised how simple it was. Will report how it survives after our next trip away.
Well I ended up using Bostik General Purpose Glue on the patch and Bostik Sew Simple around the edges.
During one week away I can confirm that both glues are waterproof and patches held up well. It was worth taking time to ensure patches lined up nicely as it looks almost professional !
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: DIY Canvas repair
