Looking to refurb my boat cover...any advice?

[worldmac1]

Hi fellow mariners,

I have a 1984 SeaRay Sundancer that is equipped with a camper cover. The cover is about shot, as it allows water to seep through, the zippers are now dry rotting and the stitching is coming apart. The snaps are pulling through the fabric, and it is such a hassle to try to have a reprive from the sun while out on the water. I was planning to invest in some new Sunbrella material and try to recreate the top using the old top as a pattern. I have a couple of questions regarding this:
1: What type of sewing machine do I need verses what I can get by with?
2: Would any of you recommend something other than Sunbrella?
3: Do any of you know someone that does this sort of thing fairly inexpensive to keep me from doing this myself?

This forum has always been very helpful and I thank you in advance for all of your help.

 

[chicknwing]

Re: Looking to refurb my boat cover...any advice?

I had the same thoughts about recovering my seats. I purchased a heavy duty sewing machine from my aunts estate sale. A "Dressmaker S-9000" for $25. According to the owners manual it is capable of sewing canvas and other thick fabrics. During my research I have found that a machine with a decent size motor and the capability of using a heavier needle (mine will handle size 20) will do the trick. One item that is necessary is the ability of the presser foot to raise high enough to accept the material you intend to sew. There are many books that can help you learn to do upholstery. The easiest method is as you stated "use the old one as a pattern."


TC

 

[Mark42]

Re: Looking to refurb my boat cover...any advice?

Sounds like a good project! Doing this yourself will save big bucks over having a top shop do it.

- Any home grade sewing machine will sew top fabric. I used a basic machine available at Walmart.

- A good source of fabric and hardware (snaps, zippers, window plastic, etc) is www.rochfordsupply.com

Good Luck!