Sewing Ripstop Nylon - what type of thread?

[parnold]

I'm almost to the point will I will start sewing my awning. I have waterproof ripstop nylon. Does anyone have any recommendations for what type of thread to use?

[S. Heisley]

Don't use the polyester wrapped. ...Been there, done that one. You'll have all kinds of trouble with the thread wearing on the ripstop at the needle and then breaking. You'll be constantly stopping to re-thread the needle.

I was then told to use 100% cotton; but, haven't tried it yet.

I'm betting that when Doug Hodder logs on, he'll have the correct solution!

[parnold]

Hurry Doug! I'm getting anxious to start sewing!!!!!!!

[schaney]

Paul, I would go with a 100% polyester, good UV and water resistance. A heavy cotton thread is also good, although it can have moisture issues if not put away dry.

Good luck on your project.

[Dusty82]

I'm NOT a professional upholsterer - I do it as a hobby out of my home. My instructor (guru) has been doing this for close to 40 years though, and he's pounded into me to use 100% polyester thread in applications like this for the reasons schaney mentioned above.

For thread size he recommends a #92 with a size 19 or 20 needle if your machine can handle it.

If you're using an industrial sewing machine, you'll have no problem with that thread/needle size. With a home machine, just get as close as you can.

[parnold]

Dusty:

Thanks, now I can head out to the store!

[cathymb]

Joann fabrics has some outdoor thread. It is located near the upholstery and home dec dept. At least in my local store. It is supposed to be for outdoor use but I haven't tried it yet. Another option would be Seattle Fabrics. They specialize in outdoor fabric and supplies.

[doug hodder]

Check....they make a UV resistant thread, available in a variety of colors...I believe it to be poly. Can't remember right now. Ripstop can be a real challenge to sew....it wants to creep! Doug

[starleen2]

Polyester or nylon - preferably bonded 69 nylon - it's virtually indestructible - it will almost cut into your fingers before it breaks. Excellent outdoor wearbility. I have re-sewn many a boat canvass / covers were the cotton thread has dry rotted. I sew exclusively with it

[parnold]

I bought the heavy duty "outdoor" thread, and my machine wouldn't handle it. Went back to Wally World and bought some polyester embroidery thread. Used whatever needle happened to be in the machine and it sewed like a dream. I may have to play with the tension just a little, but I have a very nice stuff sack now.

[stumphugger]

I have sewn heavy fabrics using an ancient Singer treadle machine. But being a bit uncoordinated, it is hard for me to do the foot thing and then think about the fabric at the same time.

I think I was sent polyester thread with my Frostline kits.

Another resource, and they would probably answer questions, is The Rainshed, in Corvallis, OR. They have an internet site.

[Miriam C.]

I bought the heavy duty "outdoor" thread, and my machine wouldn't handle it. Went back to Wally World and bought some polyester embroidery thread. Used whatever needle happened to be in the machine and it sewed like a dream. I may have to play with the tension just a little, but I have a very nice stuff sack now.

Little trick for using heavier threads is to "waist" a bobbin holder and loosen the bobbin tension. I have an extra just for sewing denim.

[parnold]

Miriam, I'm not sure what you mean by waist the bobbin, but I did adjust the tension on the bobbin as low as it would go (actually the stupid little screw popped out and ended up on the floor). I think the embroidery thread will be fine.

It's funny, I did a little googling, and found both sides of the spectrum recommended.. thin thread, small needle, and heavy thread, big needle.

[Pottercounty]

I would use Nylon. I sew alot of ballistic nylon waterproof material and I use a heavy 25 lb nylon thread. Of course, I also use a Consew industrial sewing maching. Just go to your fabric store & tell them what you're doing and they'll steer you right...

[S. Heisley]

Hey, Paul:

When do we get to see a pic of what ya did?