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which sewing machine to buy

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 3:16 pm
by edt
What machine is best for repair / sewing new kites. Will one of those plastic walmart ones do it? I don't see how you can fit all that material under the arm when you do a repair with a home machine.

Re: which sewing machine to buy

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 4:13 pm
by marlboroughman
There is one industrial type if you are willing to spend $1000-1500? If you buy home machine get older one with metal gears and triple step zig-zag.

Re: which sewing machine to buy

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 4:24 pm
by alexeyga
If it's only for repairs, look for the old home machines that are capable of both zig-zag and straight patterns, have a step length adjustment and have a solid walking foot. But if you're planning to do some serious work - you'd better off with an industrial-grade ones, though as far as I know, older ones are only capable of one single pattern. At least last time I looked for a used one - I couldn't find anything suited.

Re: which sewing machine to buy

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 4:38 pm
by marlboroughman
Take your time to find triple step zig-zag either home or industrial. Regular zig-zag on the conopy is termites holding hands

Re: which sewing machine to buy

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 4:42 pm
by Dr Makani
For the few rips I used a cheapo walmart machine for the job - SQ-9000. Yes, it is a small machine and you need to smartly fold your kite. But it has all the stitches you need. I did a couple of tests with some material I had as a leftover. Things I learned: Tape your rips, hold the piece stretched and take your time.

Some of the repairs a professional repair shop could have done for 50 to 100 bucks. So depending how often you shred your kite it may not worth it the investment. I just wanted to learn something and my g/f had the machine anyway ... :lol:

peace

Re: which sewing machine to buy

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 4:43 pm
by edt
marlboroughman wrote:termites holding hands

ahahaha, k tks

Re: which sewing machine to buy

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 4:57 pm
by edt
tks guys i think i'll go for a new 4423 Heavy Duty singer sewing machine about $150 and does a triple zig zag, since the used market on these things looks a bit thin.

Re: which sewing machine to buy

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 5:02 pm
by marlboroughman
Here is one better than Wallmart. Triple stitch zig-zag and it is a Brother. If it is old enough it might even have metal gears.
http://providence.craigslist.org/for/3686319364.html

Re: which sewing machine to buy

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 5:06 pm
by marlboroughman
That Singer looks good go for it.

Re: which sewing machine to buy

Posted: Mon May 20, 2013 7:46 pm
by flyingweasel
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