Who sews?

Yes, very happy with the way it handles the corner curves, I guess the jury is still out on service life.
Tuffak claims the AR & Marine 5 To have scratch & abrasion resistance which the VR does not. From what I saw they do not recommend the AR for curved panels? Seems like the VR was much cheaper than the others. I guess time will tell!
 
Did you follow the Tuffak recommendation to maintain a 1/2 edge distance to the stitching? I am still trying to decide whether to go with the 40 VR or 60 AR for this enclosure. I get my diamond needles and Tenura thread today to do some test sewing on the scraps I have.
If it was my boat I would probably do the job in 40VR comfortable that if it did not last, I am only out some material cost and my time. My problem is that I am doing it for a friend, I want it to last but want to save him some money as well.
 
I would say I am 1/2” in most areas, would not be concerned if a little less, used tenera also. Did not use diamond needles, can post needle specs tonight. Had the same feelings about replacing if need be
SS
 
Did Someone say knitting? :);)
Pooff2.jpg
 
Here's my needles & canvas method. one pc. with 2" facing overlaying Tuffak 3/4" basted to both sides then zipper & 1" hook velcro on inside. other pc. with 2" facing basted 1/2" over Tuffak then folded over to become 1" binding & basted to other side of Tuffak, zipper applied to inside 5/8" loop velcro applied to outside. Basting tape used on everthing!
IMG-1511.jpg
 
Nice design work on weather proofing the zipper. Very clean. I am only replacing the plastic windows on my current few projects. I actually got a call today from the buyer of my 44 to see if I would replace a couple of panels for him. Its getting to where almost every time I go to the marina I am approached by someone who heard thru the grapevine that I am doing marine canvas. I am receiving some serv 7 and diamond tip needles today to try. If I have issues I'll order the groz beckert needles. Thanks for the help.
May be a dumb question but, do you know which numbers you use to order the needles? There are several on the card but none seem to come up when I search for them.
 
Last edited:
Has anyone used HarborTime Edge fabric? I have templated my boat for a winter cover, and have seen that kinder industries has used this fabric. Anyone work with it or have an opinion on using it for a winter cover in the north east?
 
I finished most of my buddy's 400 SD windows. O only replaced the 5 year old Strataglass windows by sewing in 40G Tuffak polycarbonate VR using Tenara thread. I really like working with the Poly and don't really see myself using the rolled vinyl any more. The 40G Poly will roll up with out creasing yet has wonderful optics. Time will tell how well it holds up with use and cleaning as the VR has no anti-scratch coatings. I think with frequent use of Strataglass cleaner it should last at least as long as the Strataglass.
IMG_4184.jpg
IMG_4183.jpg
 
Here's my needles & canvas method. one pc. with 2" facing overlaying Tuffak 3/4" basted to both sides then zipper & 1" hook velcro on inside. other pc. with 2" facing basted 1/2" over Tuffak then folded over to become 1" binding & basted to other side of Tuffak, zipper applied to inside 5/8" loop velcro applied to outside. Basting tape used on everthing!
View attachment 123803
I like it….. but ….my concern is having to undo the Velcro to move the zipper. I want to un zip the whole panel then undo the velcro and vice versa when installing do zippers first then velcro but the velcro wants to self attach and then you can’t move the zippers
 
Rusty,
Sorry about not replying to your needle question earlier, just saw it today. My buddy who got me the deal on the machine threw in about 50 needles so I have not had to chase them down, let me know if you still want, I will check where he gets them. Looks like you have completed the project, looks great. We just launched last weekend & the clarity of the VR is amazing. Looking forward to using the Co-Pilot this season!
Steve
 
Blueone,
No issues at all, forward center panel & center side panels lift up or can come out. Just lift the zipper & the panels remain stuck to the Velcro, lift from the bottom & the Velcro releases as you lift. When closing just drop the panel, the Velcro catches 7 holds panel in place, then zip. I did leave the Velcro of the bottom 10 inches of the side panels so I can pull the bottom up and over from the outside of the windshield. As others have said, I can snap up either the 2 sides or the front but not all three at once. Will try for better pics this weekend,
Steve
382E4669-9861-4700-AC91-D0CE110ABA6B.jpeg
 
Rusty,
Sorry about not replying to your needle question earlier, just saw it today. My buddy who got me the deal on the machine threw in about 50 needles so I have not had to chase them down, let me know if you still want, I will check where he gets them. Looks like you have completed the project, looks great. We just launched last weekend & the clarity of the VR is amazing. Looking forward to using the Co-Pilot this season!
Steve
No worries Steve. I ended up finding what I needed. I used number 21 diamond tipped and had no issues sewing the 40G Tuffak at all.
Thanks
 
Good morning,
First off, GREAT job on all of your guys enclosures! They look spectacular!!! :)

Question for y'all, did anyone do glued seams? If so, what type of glue/adhesive did you use for the vinyl/Makrolon connections? I was told HH-66, but that stuff only seems to bond to the vinyl, NOT the Makrolon...

Appreciate any help/suggestions!!!
 
I thought all of the polycarbonate windows were bonded until I learned otherwise. I did some searching for products and processes but it seams as though these are trade secrets held closely. I think it is a hot bonding system done under pressure that requires special equipment. I am sure the materials are off the shelf available, just need to know which are tried and true.
The guys that do the bonding are quite proud of their product for sure.
I found that sewing the 40 gage Tuffak is no problem my machine would struggle at low speed with the 60
 
A21609C2-10F3-45A5-9DAC-94290159716E.jpeg
A21609C2-10F3-45A5-9DAC-94290159716E.jpeg
0C3E5D31-A194-4C9D-A081-383FB5F19846.jpeg

just finished another window replacement for a buddy. I really like working with the Tuffak 40 G. Time will tell how well it holds up to regular use and cleaning.
 

Forum statistics

Threads
113,253
Messages
1,429,334
Members
61,128
Latest member
MinecraftRuSwilm
Back
Top