Been sewing up some new upholstery

[Russell]

Waiting on some parts to get shipped from the US and the UK, so while I wait, I finally decided to get around to sewing up the new upholstery with the fabric I bought last summer. Finished the starboard settee tonight and should finish the port tomorrow.

[Gary H]

Very nice look. I like that.

[Russell]

I was torn between wanting something dark, that hid stains well (I am not the tidiest person and tend to spill things, plus full time living aboard means more wear in general), and wanting something light to brighten up the boat (all that teak can make it a bit too dark feeling). So I came up with this combo for a compromise, dark color seat bottom, where spills are most likely to land, and a the light colored stripes for the back. I am pretty happy with how it looks!

[David Morton]

Looks great! I can't imagine a sewing machine on your cruiser, so i assume it's hand sewn. Curious what fabric and thread you used?

David

[Russell]

Looks great! I can't imagine a sewing machine on your cruiser, so i assume it's hand sewn. Curious what fabric and thread you used?

David

Oh I certainly carry around my sewing machine wherever I sail! It lives in the quarter berth when not in use. One of the best ways to save money and make money while cruising.

The fabric is from sunbrella upholstery line, not as heavy or rough as the exterior fabric, but still has mild water proofing and mildew retardants in it. Thread is polyester v-69. Hand sewing all that would be torture!

[Jim Walsh]

Looks great. Very professional.

[Vincent]

Can you give some info on your sewing machine? Can you repair sails? 110v?

[Russell]

Can you give some info on your sewing machine? Can you repair sails? 110v?

Yes, it can repair and even make sails, does zig zag stitch (but not 4 point zig zag, just two point). It is 110v, but available in a 220v version as well. Its a Sailrite LSZ-1, pretty much the bar standard in portable walking foot sewing machines.

[Renova]

Russel...Nice Job!! The stripes look great. I loved cruising with a sewing machine, although I'm in envy of your LZ1 - that's my dream machine for the next trip. In the meantime, I have an antique hand crank that worked wonders on sails, canvas, courtesy flags, and even bikinis! Mine was strapped down in the hanging locker when not in use.

Here's a pic of a fellow cruiser enjoying the perks of our machine:

https://flic.kr/p/azDQhU