Best Sewing Machine for a Boat? Singer 4411 Heavy Duty | Paragon’s Favourite Stuff Ep. 11

Рет қаралды 18,077

2 жыл бұрын

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A sewing machine on a boat? What would you even use that for, and is it worth the space (and the energy!) that it uses.
We think so, and you might as well. Come aboard our sailboat Paragon as Drake shows off our wonderful Singer 4411 Heavy Duty Machine. He’ll show the basics of how it works, take you through some projects we’ve done on the boat, and explain how it’s saved us a lot of money over the years.
But the big question is…can it be used for sail repair. On one side is the Singer Heavy Duty machine and on the other are four layers of heavy sail material. Who do you think will win?
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Singer 4411 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
www.singermachines.co.uk/sewi...
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See the whole North Atlantic Adventure series with the links below!
Season 1: North Carolina to New York City
• Season 1 - North Carol...
Season 2: New York City to Boston
• Season 2 - New York Ci...
Season 3: USA to Newfoundland, Canada
• Season 3 - Boston to N...
Season 4: Newfoundland, Canada to Greenland
• Season 4 - Newfoundlan...
Season 5: Greenland
• Season 4 - Newfoundlan...
Season 6: Iceland to the Faroe Islands
• Season 6 - Iceland to ...
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Пікірлер: 134

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Go to nordvpn.com/drakeparagon and enter the coupon code DrakeParagon to get a 2-year plan plus 1 additional month with a huge discount. It’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee!

@1950BeachGuy 2 жыл бұрын

Drake, as a sewist myself and having made many sail bags out of used sailcloth. Your singer was going to have difficult time sewing but it can do it. The one problem I know you had was using the double sided tape. It did two things to your job. 1. Unnecessarily and needlessly increased the density of total fabric. 2 The glue in the double-sided tape gummed up the sewing needle and that caused the bobbin thread to not operate correctly. On a side note next time cut a piece of new sailcloth and test sew 4 layers to get the right setting (upper thread tension, bobbin thread tension (much larger dia. thread than for cloths) and correct needle size. You can do it! You've done everything else. Keep up the good work.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Many thanks Jeff. Will try again.

@svhappymondays 2 жыл бұрын

Will give your advice a go also Jeff 👍

@jennifertollefson8500 2 жыл бұрын

Can you suggest a domestic machine that can get through marine projects with the double sided tape and UV proof thread? I eventually want to get into an industrial machine but I’m not ready to spend $1,000 yet as I’m still pretty new to these projects.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

@Jennifer Tollefson I'm only familiar with the Singer Heavy duty, and in the next episode we were able to get it to work well enough by using a different the foot and different needles. You might also get some great answers to that question on the Sewing on Boats or Sew Far North facebooks group. Sewing a sail with a Singer Heavy duty sewing machine. Part 2 kzfaq.info/get/bejne/brt6Z5x3q9u7Zok.html

@sewingmachinesindetail Жыл бұрын

When I look the video, the double sided tape is placed on the inner half part of the patch. But it is the outer part you see the sewing on without the tape. So it is not the tape causing the problem here. I think you are right about doing some test sewing and do the experiments needed before starting on a sail. It could very well be about thread size, needle size and thread tensions. I still think the Singer 4411 may have problems with this. But if you modify a household machine like a Singer 237, it will be able to do this like you see here: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/m5ySaLqrm8enln0.html

@wojohowitz5432 6 ай бұрын

i am a 54 year old Father, Husband and business owner. I have a motto: "Let's see what else I can do?".... well I recently taught myself how to use my wife's industrial sewing machine. I have made 15 sets of mittens from re-purposed leather and fur coats, dozens of Industrial bags for camping equipment, cooking utensils etc. I have literally gone through 7 miles of thread according to my wife 🤔 My point is, that it's not too hard to learn a new skill, however, of the 7 miles of thread I've gone through, I am certain that 6.8 miles was removed with a seam ripper🥴before i arrived at a successful finished product. Keep on keepin' on.

@thinkingahead6750 Жыл бұрын

I am probably a bit late with this comment. First I am always glad to see people not afraid to try new stuff. So well done. Now a few practical points and it will sew that sail with ease. When you look at a spool of thread it is either wound so it makes a diamond pattern or a parallel winding pattern. If it is diamond the thread needs to come off the top of the spool, the spool can be mounted in the horizontal holder in the top, or just put on the worktop near the "big wheel". If parallel wound it needs to go on the pin on the top and the spool will rotate as the thread is pulled off. Also for the flat holder on the top there should be a smaller retainer (about the size of the core of the spool. Next you should get a handbook it lists all the needle types and sizes for the different sewing conditions. Your stitch failure at the end was due to either the incorrect tension (you didn't practice first) or a needle size (thickness and eye size) was wrong, that is too small. So the needle is causing too much friction on the thread which will stop stitches forming properly. Finally you can't stitch through DIY store double sided tape as the needle and thread will both get stuck to it. The sort of tape that sailright use is designed for sewing. PS if you had wanted to hold it in place then pins or half a dozen hand stitches would have done it and then you can pull them out afterwards if you want. PS I have sewn tarps with this machine. You would have had the same problems with the sailright machine. Good luck.

@knutgodo 3 ай бұрын

This.

@kimyoung230 2 жыл бұрын

“I’ll just take it off of the slider here…” Well done, folks! That was awesome! Sorry the end turn out as hoped. I appreciate that you are sharing both highs and lows. 😊

@jeffreywettig5302 2 жыл бұрын

I have had the same machine for about 6 years now, very capable. I bought it to learn how to sew cushions for my boat, which turned out decently enough. Had no issues on the canvas, or doing sail repairs on my ripped mainsail a few years back. It does get tricky with eisenglass in dodgers and the like, just have to take it slow and roll everything up tight to get to the middle parts....... I get heavy duty needles at JoAnn fabrics and they break occasionally. The only issue I find is using a bigger spool is tough on top of the machine, have to get it off to the side somehow. I think I paid like 150 bucks for it.....m.m I'm sure the Sailrite machines are exquisite, but this works for my projects and budget.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

That's great to hear! I bought the walking foot accessory and stronger thread. I'm looking forward to the next day we don't have rain here so that I can try again to sew that patch on our mainsail with it. If it works then I probably won't get the Sailrite machine. I'm really looking forward to making new cockpit cushions next.

@kevinleary1550 2 жыл бұрын

A wonderful video, full of functional knowledge. Thank you for revealing the trial and error of this repair. Hope the better thread works.

@barbaramatthews4735 11 ай бұрын

I'm a Navy vet, but I never took a sewing machine to sea. I have crocheted in the South Pacific Ocean. I've hand sewn in the Caribbean...but no sewing machine. I left my machine at my home port. I really didn't have time for sewing... unless you count, suturing a really gnarly wound on a shipmates. I was a Corpsman. I'm no longer a sailor at sea. I'm just an old veteran now. I have plenty of time to sew. I have the Singer 4432. I'm pleased with it. I didn't like it at first, but I've grown to really enjoy the features of the heavy-duty duty machine.

@richarddebenedettoph.d.3769 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for showing a failure. It made the video very real and showed that a first set back can be a great learning opportunity and the next approach is now more likely to work. Learned a lot. And you didn’t throw the machine overboard! A lesson in patience. Two lessons for the price of one. Now that’s a great deal

@SVLOKEE 2 жыл бұрын

Love the honesty, I've yet to tackle sewing but it's on the list. I had heard the walking foot was really important for sewing heavy materials. Keep the videos coming, thanks for sharing!

@susanc.8009 9 ай бұрын

A combo of the Singer HD and Sailrite and I can sew most anything.

@DesertDogJournal 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the video, and thanks for keeping it honest and real.

@55418und 6 ай бұрын

I loved my 4411. It did a great job.

@Cptnbond 2 жыл бұрын

It was an excellent episode, as usual, with a somewhat unexpected ending. I will stay tuned for the follow-up attempt to fix the sail. Cheers.

@svhappymondays 2 жыл бұрын

Drake snap! i blew up my supposed singer heavy duty on four layers of sunberella making curtains just in the four corners where you fold the material :( so ive gone for the plunge on a Solent Sewing Machine its reportedly a snide sailrite will keep people posted on utube svhappymondays when i receive it this week.

@chirowind 2 жыл бұрын

Following your advise, we bought the Singer 4423 (basically same as 4411) and now I hear singing from the sewing room instead of, well you know! Thank you very much for all your videos. If you come to Ontario I would like to buy you a beer, at least.

@claremaccarthy7308 2 жыл бұрын

Drake, I’ve got a similarly sized machine (a Toyota, who knew they made sewing machines!) I’ve successfully sewn through nine layers of Sunbrella. I think your problem might be that the needle catches on the glue in the tape and jams up. Either that or you need to use a big “for jeans” 14 needle. Or both. I would advise that you don’t invest in an LZE just yet. I’ve joined a few sailing/sewing groups just to investigate this machine and all I can see is problems.

@eddesimone535 Жыл бұрын

I'd look into a better needle before blowing big bucks on the sailrite. Also on the beginning stitch, hold the threads behind the machine to keep it taught until it gets going. Maybe a bit of spray adhesive to hold the patch, but you can always use pins or clamps. Just my 2 cents.

@svdellajean253 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Drake, I really appreciate your honesty. It’s one of the reasons I’ve been subscribed to your channel for so many years. You’re the reason I installed AlpenGlow overhead led lights and a CPT Autopilot. Excellent products. Thanks.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Della Jean! :)

@fargarden 2 жыл бұрын

Great video and indeed great introduction to this machine and how to use it for complete beginners like myself. Please keep us updated on if the walking foot fitting makes a difference.

@patrickholcomb9628 Жыл бұрын

the yellow box for your solar panels is an OTTER BOX, not to be confused with a pelican box.

@friedaspyder8485 2 жыл бұрын

That was a very good video! I picked up a HD Singer not too long a go, but still need to do some learning. I did manage to buy some thread nearly as strong as the V92, so that's good. For hand sewing, I am going to pick up some Tandy S-Curved Sewing Needles too. Seems it might be faster than using the awl for small jobs.

@tazziboy7 Жыл бұрын

Freaking awesome! I stumbled across this video looking for the adjustment on my machine, a Singer 4411. Nice looking stitches, clean. Thanks for posting this video!

@lorenzom7237 Жыл бұрын

This is the most interesting video on sewing machines for sailing I have found on youtube. Thank you !

@PyeGuySailing 2 жыл бұрын

How about telling us about your ground tackle. What anchors, how much chain, snubbers, etc...could be interesting in a future video

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Excellent idea, thanks for the suggestion Gary! -Monique

@semco72057 2 жыл бұрын

That is a good machine and is great at repairing or making something from scratch and I have a Singer S40 machine and it is great. My machine is used for quilting and that primarily and repairing clothing as a secondary use.

@westmc45 2 жыл бұрын

I got a sailrite and did all my salon cushions and dinghy chaps as well as a new window on my Bimini. Its a good machine and its also a walking foot which is what you need to feed material. Get one you won't regret it!!!

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

I want one! :) - Drake

@edwardfinn4141 2 жыл бұрын

Re sewing… With the uV resistant thread, like technora. Sewing is harder then normal, even with a sailrite machine. Use a smaller needle, one size smaller works for us…

@o_oo_o1812 6 ай бұрын

Thx for posting

@canlelola Жыл бұрын

Now if you buy a second bobbin case and needles with a larger hole, you can sew with thicker thread. Second bobbin case so to adjust to the thicker thread.

@drakeParagon Жыл бұрын

Here's our second attempt, using a different foot, and a larger needle. :) kzfaq.info/get/bejne/brt6Z5x3q9u7Zok.html

@terrydavidson8369 2 жыл бұрын

You have the greatest channel on you tube !!! Thank You So Much for having it. We are looking for a sewing machine for canvas and sail work. I have to put some reef points in our main build dodger make a cockpit cover etc.... I can't wait to see your episode on if the walking foot and stronger thread works. We were just about to buy a singer 4411. Seeing your results will decide if we do. Your channel has helped us with so many things. If you find or use triangular sail needles in the singer could you let us know please? THANK YOU AGAIN !!! Fair Winds and Following Seas for you Mates.

@susanc.8009 9 ай бұрын

More on the subject-don’t know if anyone mentioned it, but if you soap, rub the needle with a bar of soap and re-soap as your sewing continues through tape and use a big needle, a size 20, or maybe even bigger, along with the walking foot when sewing a thick assembly, you might be able to make a repair like that with the Singer. I don’t know for sure it will work, because I switch to the Sailrite when sewing heavy weight fabric. It’s best to avoid sewing through tape if you can. Good thing about Sailrite, should you purchase one-they will help you with any problem you might have when using their machine. Also, the Sailrite can make a longer stitch than a Singer, which helps keep the pucker down when sewing heavy fabric. I suspect the Singer does a better job on lighter weight fabric.

@colin101981 2 жыл бұрын

That was really interesting. Thanks for sharing in full. I wonder if the double sided tape didn't cause most of the problem. The Sailrite machines do look good. Not sure they'd be any good for the clothing or home dec stuff though, you might be better with two machines.

@davey3765 Жыл бұрын

I bought the same unit (4411) for fixing jeans but going through a bunch of KZfaq videos; you reminded me about something I forgot about - shortening jeans! I've had a very difficult time using denim thread (the tan colored thicker thread) but in another video I didn't realize you can use a different bottom thread for the back and the nit worked good. Frustrating at first just keep at it and you can have some fun.

@CtrlAltMike Жыл бұрын

The surprise ending was delightful and had me laughing. (Especially the multiple quacks.) Besides that, I learned a bunch and it was cool to see how the community took hold of the challenge below and helped everyone out - kudos!

@jpkalishek4586 2 жыл бұрын

7:50 I almost snorted my tea. I wonder if it's the double sided tape causing issues, grabbing the thread. I'd say try slower speed but the walking foot and stronger thread can only help. I have a Brother machine that is quite cheap, but I buy work pants by waist size, unhemmed and hem them myself and save almost half the cost of presized pants. I've also made a holster from leather using it (it worked but it was at its limit there) and done darning and whatnot. I have a leather patch stitcher, and an antique Singer in need of rework. Sewing is a very good skill to have, even if it doesn't look perfect.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Heh, we had so much fun doing that. It makes me giggle every time I see it. The tape was actually at the bottom of the patch, farthest away from where Drake was sewing, so doesn't seem to be the issue. The slower speed is a good suggestion. Someone also mentioned having another pair of hands on the other end tensioning the sail material and keeping it straight. I agree, sewing is an excellent skill to have on a boat, and it certainly doesn't need to look pretty. It just needs to work. Though I am super impressed by the curtains Drake made...they're functional AND look great which is even more impressive since they were his first big project. Of course, the whole thing nearly had him swearing off sewing (or just swearing) because it was such a complicated a big undertaking. I know he had to undo his work more than one time, and each panel took a full (12+ hour) day. I'm wondering what your leather patch stitcher is. Is it like a Speedy Stitcher? We have one of those and it's terrific. -Monique

@cathy7824 2 жыл бұрын

I have the lsz-1, the fabricator and this singer 4411. You love lsz-1, I love sailrites threads as well. Make sure you get the lsz-1 with the worker bee on it. You wont be disappointed.

@chadpeaks1472 2 жыл бұрын

I had the singer 4452 it did great on household things and then I tried to make my dodger and bimini. what a serious pain in the rear that was! I. had the right thread and walking foot like suggested and still it did the same as yours. I did some research and If i can remember correctly it's the tensioning that's off.also you need a bigger needle. i had problems with more than a few layers of sunbrella too. it's just not a work horse like the sailrite sewing machine. i broke down and bought the sailrite LSZ -1 and it got the dodger and bimini done in no time. now it had some problems also. the timing will go off and you'll break alot of needles when that happens! But it worked.

@edwardfinn4141 2 жыл бұрын

Smaller needle , not bigger needle worked for us…

@kens2114 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks was looking at the singers & you’ve answered my question re sail repairs. Hope the hand sewing goes well

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks. I've been getting a lot of great feedback and recommendations on how I might be able to pull this off with the machine I have. I just bought some much stronger thread, and also an accessory called a walking foot for my Singer Heavy Duty. I'm going to give it one more try before I start hand sewing. Hope it works!

@Linda-xz4wt Жыл бұрын

I just stumbled n your channel, great content, love the reality of it all. About the sewing issue on your sail, what size needle did you have installed? Skipped stitches usually always point to the needle as the problem. I probably would have used a size 18 for jeans. Anyway I really enjoyed watching. Well, I should have watched Part 2 before this comment! I see you used a larger needle AND a walking foot. Yay!

@jsvno 2 жыл бұрын

It was a fantastic invention, maybe next to the wheel and the refrigerator. Mr.Singer did it i think....

@Blue-Steel 2 жыл бұрын

Good job.

@RobertWardJones 10 ай бұрын

You may consider a Chinese shoe patcher machine for emergency repairs. It is manual so you have lots of control and it will sew in any direction and will punch through tuff fabric and leather. I have used it to make emergency repairs of halyard ends that were frying near the thimbles. It can sew through thick material and rope and requires no electricity. It's not the best tool to patch sails but it is much better than sewing by hand and will get the job done in a pinch in the middle of the ocean with no power. And it has a walking foot.

@cathhitchin4966 10 ай бұрын

I'd definitely try a walking foot, it has feed dogs that push the top layer of fabric through and controls the fabric better, working eith the feed dogs underneath. Not expensive to buy and worth a shot before investing in a really expensive machine. Also, consider keeping the singer if you have space because a machine like this will always be useful. Thanks for the video, it was helpful.

@mfight Жыл бұрын

I have enjoyed watching your channel for so long. I can't wait to see your follow up video, I'm looking for an alternative to the Sailrite that will work with smaller projects and boats. When the day comes that I'm heading to the Bahamas, then maybe a more expensive and stronger machine will be necessary.

@agegnehutadesse5095 Жыл бұрын

Hello, Puting silicon pads underneath the machine can help to stabilize movements of equipments on a surface. Sometimes wet towels also work. But be careful with the electricity if it has a grounding. Best of luck!

@drakeParagon Жыл бұрын

Thanks! We also found that sticking BLU TACK under the 4 corners of the machine works fantastic.

@agegnehutadesse5095 Жыл бұрын

@@drakeParagon thanks for sharing, my laptop has something similar with extruded rubbers. It stays fitted without sliding on table and on glass surfaces. Good staffs! Little things can save a lot of machines from easily being damaged or being worn out quickly. Especially in at sea. Something to add on the list, thanks!

@PrecisionSailLoftVictoria 2 жыл бұрын

Great Video! Repairing sails is not an easy task when the sail is on the boat.

@ScottPDX 2 жыл бұрын

First time viewer. Loved the video, and your style. Showing the failure is just as important as the success. Hope you do a follow up soon on the fix. Subscribed.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Will do!

@judithmitchellthedevotedlu3087 Жыл бұрын

Just stumbled upon your channel. I think you can use this machine. I have sewed two layers of leather with this machine. Firstly, you need a size 100 sewing needle. Most machines come with size 80. Secondly, use sewing basting spray to keep the layers from slipping around. Also, slow down and give the machine time to do its job. I hope that helps. Good luck with your sewing and repairs.

@nickbernstein 2 жыл бұрын

If the new thread doesn't work, find a leatherworker. They will have a heavy duty sewing machine, and likely won't realize they're supposed to include a maritime tax, so it will probably be much cheaper.

@1sheinz 2 жыл бұрын

I'm no expert either with a sewing machine. One thing I learned from Mom is that there is a different needle required for different materials. You may just need to find a heavyer needle made for heavy canvas check around to see whats available. CHEERS AND FAIR WINDS Steve h.

@sailingsegundo4644 2 жыл бұрын

The sailrite machine works great I have used it for all sailing applications .for a test i took 12 layers of dacron and can straight stitch it no problem but the zigzag stitches did not work infact It threw the machine Out of alignment which was also an easy fix

@mark211257 2 жыл бұрын

Always wondered how a sewing machine works ,,, 👍👍 are you coming to The Thames estuary uk ?

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

We'd love to. We're especially looking for a marina in England to spend next winter. If you know of any please let us know. :) - Drake

@david78212 2 жыл бұрын

I've thought about the same machine, I have a Sailrite LSZ-1 and although it is a heavy beast, it will handle sail material without issue. Thanks for showing that it won't work, it saves me from having to try and the cost of the machine to do so.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

We actually did get the Singer Heavy Duty to work well enough to make that repair in the next video, using a larger needle, and a different foot. But I think a Sailrite machine would have done a much better job. kzfaq.info/get/bejne/brt6Z5x3q9u7Zok.html

@countryflyer4536 2 жыл бұрын

Buy the sailrite worker B model...you will never look back!!!

@PyeGuySailing 2 жыл бұрын

I have the 4452 which looks exactly the same. I'm impressed by it's quality. I had to repair my jib by hand though. Let us know if the v92 and the foot solved the problem.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Will do! :) - Drake

@jarikinnunen1718 Жыл бұрын

When you add hand crank, power issue is history.

@davidcannamela 2 жыл бұрын

You can also try to go slower and possibly use the hand crank. Also check out the barracuda it’s a Sailrite knock off that is as far as I hear just as good.

@sailingpittsburgh 2 жыл бұрын

I tried to find the Fasbil waterproofer product and was unable to find it sold in the USA. Ebay has it but the price to ship from England is more than the cost of the product. 303 Fabric Guard looks like a good choice here in the USA. Any recommendations?

@EklectikaAaynne 2 жыл бұрын

I suggest you take 3 layers of your sail cloth and do a test w/o using the tape. Perhaps that has caused this "sticky" situation!?!?!?! OR it could be the new thread you're using and the machine tension. Test sewing on the 3 layers with a different thread also. Just some suggestions! Your machine WAS "sewing" through all thicknesses . . . . but the thread breakage and skipped stitches could be one of several other issues that could perhaps be identified with various tests.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the recommendations! Looking forward to the next attempt.

@superwag634 2 жыл бұрын

You need the walking foot. There’s a cheap Chinese copy of Sailrite machine

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

We ordered one and it just came in today. Looking forward to trying it our as well as all of the other helpful suggestions. Cheers! -M

@johnnybarbar7435 2 жыл бұрын

Drake, The proper needle makes all the difference too. The point style and eye geometry can make it a feast or famine task.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Johnny, thanks! If you have any more info/recommendations on needles I'd really appreciate it. I just need ones that will work in a Singer Heavy duty. Thanks - Drake drakeparagon@gmail.com

@allynonderdonk7577 2 жыл бұрын

We have the Singer Heavy Duty 4452. It comes with a walking foot, and with the right thread, needle, and thickness of material that repair is likely possible. Now I'm not saying my wife is any better at sewing, or for sure you will be able to sew that up....However we had an almost identical repair on our Catalina 30 mainsail. We were able to do it, but that sail might be a lighter material.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Allyn, thanks, can you recommend a needle for sewing sails that will work in a Singer Heavy Duty? - Drake

@allynonderdonk7577 2 жыл бұрын

@@drakeParagon Well as I recall it was a leather needle. Though we ordered an assortment. We are away from the boat or I'd break it out and try to figure it out for you. As I recall we did a lot of hand turning the machine at points

@allynonderdonk7577 2 жыл бұрын

My wife says she thinks it was a Schmetz 16 or 18 leather needle.

@sailingtessbesssewfarnorth1746 2 жыл бұрын

Don’t use a leather point on sails, it will cut the fibres and weeken the sail.

@allynonderdonk7577 2 жыл бұрын

@@sailingtessbesssewfarnorth1746 It worked fine on our sails. Really you need a strong needle to pass through a bunch of layers or it's useless anyway.

@timerickson7056 2 жыл бұрын

I have been wondering about a regular sewing machine if it would work for sail work . So thanks

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

We'll give it another try with the walking foot accessory and stronger thread. I'm really hoping it will work! :) - Drake

@marktinkler6897 2 жыл бұрын

Drake, don't throw good money after bad. IF you can get it to work, it will only be temporary. It will soon break internally from the strain of such large loads. If you open up your Singer you will find lots of plastic. OK for a while, but will soon fail. If you open ANY commercial grade machine you will find nothing but steel. So is the Sailrite. Probably a little overpriced because they have to absorb advertising costs, but, in my opinion, well worth the extra. Just my 2 cents.

@jmflyer55 2 жыл бұрын

I've always been told a household sewing machine cannot sew sails, due to the thick thread and sail material. And that you have to use a commercial grade sewing machine, which is a really heavy duty, very expensive, non-portable sewing machine. So when I saw your video I was quite shocked you could stitch your sail with a light weight fabric machine.

@cawfeedawg 2 жыл бұрын

Drakes machine, while meant for a hobbyist, has a motor 60% more powerful than 99% of home machines. I wouldn't want to depend on this machine for commercial activity but its just fine for occasional use around a boat.

@marktinkler6897 2 жыл бұрын

Sorry you had such a bad experience with the Singer. I looked at them briefly before purchasing the portable version of a Sailrite machine. Your video confirmed I made the right decision. (Saved me the additional $300 bucks for something that would not serve. Bottom line - to he Sailrite machine is designed to do sailmaker level jobs. It will effortlessly punch through eight layers of cruiser weight sail sailcloth without a hiccup. I bought one to do some similar repairs to my mainsail and since have used it for many projects, new and repairs for five years. Couldn't be happier. Even have made a few bucks repairing other folks canvas and sails. There is one other brand of machine that is comparable but for the life of me I can't remember the brand. Cost is around four times that of the Singer but you get 10 times the machine. Go for it, you won't regret it!

@dswart 2 жыл бұрын

First fix is always blame the needle: Get heavy duty needles. Second, thread. Third, walking foot. But first, check your needle, and replace frequently.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

I'm looking for recommendations on needles that I can buy online that will work in a Singer Heavy duty machine...

@heavymetalfactory1665 2 жыл бұрын

Poland says hello 🇵🇱

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Cześć! See you soon Poland! :) 🇵🇱🇺🇸

@vpolarbear Жыл бұрын

Hya Drake, Sewing? Woohoo or EEEK , Sailrite is truley Amazing yes but also has an Amazing Price about $800-$3000 but in my Opinion the Consew CP206RL Portable Walking Foot Machine Will do the Same Work for Between $400-$500 much less. i dont have $1000 for a Machine and about Half that for a Great Walking foot is more my Pocket book..lol. Honestly if I did Have the Extra $500 i Would get the Sailrite unfortunatly I Dont. You Seem Like a Great Guy & I would just check out a couple Videos on the Consew CP206RL Before I Spent the Extra Cash but its up to you! Sooo Sail Safe! Float Forever! and Have a Safe Wonderful Trip!

@jarikinnunen1718 Жыл бұрын

Too slippery? Sanding it rough?

@williamsrdan 2 жыл бұрын

You don't mention if you tried this, but there are two other dials, the tensioner and the one next to that, on the top left, you didn't mention these two dials in the video. Fiddling with those should help. And even spinning the wheel by hand instead of using the foot pedal. Slower is better with denser materials and multiple layers.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the suggestions. Will do. I'm looking forward to our next attempt, with stronger thread and a walking foot soon.

@SheilaConvery 2 жыл бұрын

Good sailing, like good baking, means never having a soggy bottom.

@MidnightRiderMidnightRider Жыл бұрын

7:52😂😂

@razzorbladz 2 жыл бұрын

I am in charge of my yacht clubs sail loft so I know a thing or 2 about sewing machines. my cousin has that machine I have used it. nothing good to say about it its far from heavy duty as they claim. I was shocked that you were going to successfully sew a sail with it and prove all my opinions wrong lol I recommend any old singer made before the 1970's and I own a hand cranked singer model 28 made in 1896. I have made many many boom covers with it it will sew anything including sails but its not zig zag. there are many options of vintage machines that will do zig zag but a zig zag walking foot is what you want. I'm not a fan of the sailrite although its good for the heavy jobs for its price it sucks for the lite duty jobs. the singer 201 is the best powered strait stitch sewing machine made full stop period the end. and an old 201 can be had under $50 and will sew anything a sailrite can sew "if its motor is not old and tired" I feel that anyone who buys the machine you have may feel cheated and lied too and rightfully so. heavy duty is the claim but it cant match the heavy duty of a non heavy duty machine made for home use only just 50 years ago. rant over haha

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Ha! Thanks for the great rant. :) I guess the saying "They don't make them like they used to." applies to a lot things nowadays.. Boats included. - Drake

@sailingtessbesssewfarnorth1746 2 жыл бұрын

Totally agree, singer 201, best domestic straight stitch, cheapest used machine that will repair sails comfortably is a singer 20u. Not a walking foot, but good enough for repairs.

@robertgrosser7279 Жыл бұрын

razzorbladz Thank you for exposing the dreadful Singer 44 series machines . I am a vintage sewing machine collector and am very passionate about fine quality machines and unfortunately the 44 series doesn't fit into this category. I completely dismantled one , just out of curiosity and was shocked by what I found. The main frame (or chassis) is made from very crudely cast aluminium and it just has a large plastic casing to make it look tough. Inside it I did not find one single thing that pleased me and have declared it to be one big rip off , a piece of shit and a disgusting disgrace to the Singer name. Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺

@razzorbladz Жыл бұрын

@@robertgrosser7279 so true and also hello from Australia

@gordonbrown2836 2 жыл бұрын

On that sewing machine you should be able to lower the pressure feet get a stronger needle a flat surface because the sale is pulling itself back towards the mast because you don't have a flat surface slow slow down your speed and it will work patience with sewing that's the only way to do it I've been sewing a long time

@gordonbrown2836 2 жыл бұрын

Vicki Brown

@AndyUK-Corrival 2 жыл бұрын

Bummer Drake. The sail cloth is also very slippery so that doesn’t help either. Btw I guess you know that was a pretty famous yacht behind you, Ceil III. Designed by Miller and Whitworth. Miller is better known as Ben Lexcen who designed Australia II which won the America’s Cup. Ceil III won the Sydney Hobart back in 1973 and is a wooden boat. I went aboard her some years back when she was for sale and before the new owner bought her and he has done a fab job of rebuilding her. Are you still heading for Poland given what’s going on in Ukraine? Stay safe. Andy UK

@anthonygillesse7242 2 жыл бұрын

Hello That Singer is good for light weight work but a walking foot machine is what you need for canvas and sail repair.

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

I just ordered a walking foot for the machine. Hope it works!

@williamsrdan 2 жыл бұрын

....but, that's my sewing machine... really? I was disappointed when I got it because of it's stitch pattern limitations... thinking more Renaissance Faire garb, rather than sails. But at the time my mom got it for me, I was seriously considering a sailboat...ended up with RV instead. I sewed a few layers of dense fabrics with trimming, nothing as tough as a sail, but it has definitely "sailed" through everything I've put in. Seeing that you're using the same as I have gives me a bit more respect for my machine. Safe travels!

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

Ha! My mom got the sewing machine for me too. :)

@davidmoore5021 2 жыл бұрын

Boy with all them ducks fly by it’s a wonder y’all didn’t get tagged.🙃🙃🙃

@MarthaColburn 6 ай бұрын

It’s only cuz the tape.

@markmahan6768 2 жыл бұрын

Well, guess you can't win 'em all. Lessons learned though, right?

@EkiwwaNoel Жыл бұрын

Get a janome high speed, is better than sailrite. According to other you tubers

@newnormal1841 9 ай бұрын

Yes sailrite. Singer does not have the tork, power. Heavy duty not industrial Monster wheel 💥 🤺💐 I named mine "Kaboom the blue drako" We will make many waves together

@lorentosi 2 жыл бұрын

Hahahhaha I had exactly the same experience ...I thought I could use a refurbished 100 USD Singer 411 instead of the Sailrite but not...definitly a piece of junk

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

We were able to use the Singer Heavy Duty to get the job done in the next episode by using a bigger needle and foot attachment. kzfaq.info/get/bejne/brt6Z5x3q9u7Zok.html But ya, a Sailrite definitely would have been the perfect machine for this job. Stay tuned. ;)

@lorentosi 2 жыл бұрын

@@drakeParagon Be very careful to use the heavier needle because if you get stock multiple time, the needle gear that is underneath is in plastic and will get damaged !!!! yesterday, when I was repairing my genoa, I damaged the tooth of the gear and lost the synchronism needle-bobbin...there are not available spere parts on internet! moreover when I tried to remove the gear with the allen key being the screw in plastic I ripped off the head of the screws...now I guess I have to dispose this machine in the place it deserves that is the garbage. Definitely this machine is powerful for nothing. It cannot be used with heavy materials because the presence of plastic gears to save few dollars in the construction. Junk

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

@@lorentosi Thanks for the tip Lorenzo! :) If you want to try to repair your sewing machine, then I know a guy. :) His name is Davie, and he runs a Facebook page called Sew Far North, which is for helping people fix their sewing machines. facebook.com/groups/1346509865787938

@jeffreysearle2996 2 жыл бұрын

I think the problem is you have a duck living in the sewing machine. 😳😳

@drakeParagon 2 жыл бұрын

🤣What the duck????? You’re right..😁

@marksmale827 8 ай бұрын

No surprises here. These machines are misnamed. They are normal domestic sewing machines for normal dress and light upholstery fabrics - and of lower quality than those of earlier years when they were mostly metal and built to be maintained and to last. Yes, for these really heavy fabrics you need a special genuine heavy-duty machine, domestic or industrial.