Boat Curtains?

[tank1949]

This may be incorrect forum? I created my own external curtains on a 1986 SR AJ but don't remember what gauge of clear vinyl I used for them. I believe it was 20 gauge but it may have been heavier. I understand that there is 40 gauge now available, but I don't know if my old Singer or Kenmore sewing machine will penetrate the vinyl sandwiched between two layers of TOP GUN fabric that I plan on using to hold the snaps. Also, are there any companies who make separating zippers that have an adhesive backing that I can tape onto curtains and sew into place? This would eliminate pinning zippers into place. Any suggestions or videos would be appreciated!

 

[crabby captain john]

Re: Boat Curtains?

Think they should use Velcro instead of zippers....

 

[V153]

Re: Boat Curtains?

To the best of my knowledge no one makes zippers with a 'built in' adhesive backing. If'n I feel the need I stick 'em in place with some 1/4" 'hi-tack' seam tape. But lately I've gotten purty good at just freehanding 'em?

'Less yer machines are industrial/commercial you're gonna have a hard time sewing through a couple layers of material & 40 ga vinyl.

 

[Grandad]

Re: Boat Curtains?

Hi tank. I used this stuff. Watch the video too. - Grandad
Seamstick 3/8" Basting Tape (50 Yds)

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Boat Curtains?

I wouldn't think you would want to use anything peel n stick as it would gum up your needle

EDIT: lol they say to use alcohol or goo gone to clean needle when it gets gummed up

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Boat Curtains?

Good basting tape won't gum the needle up much. Since you usually only use it on zippers and sometime facing, it's not much of an issue.

 

[tank1949]

Re: Boat Curtains?

Great information. I couldn't remember "basting tape." Now, I am wondering if I would be able to sew 30 guage and would 20 guage do my job? I realize the 40 guage may be too thick. My sewing machines are old, US made, and strong, but they are not dedicated to sewing real heavy fabrick. Have any of you sewn 30 guage clear vinyl to top gun?

 

[tank1949]

Re: Boat Curtains?

I thought clear vinyl was what I needed for curtains, now some are selling "double polished." What is the difference, if I specify marin grade UV protected clear vinyl?????????

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Double Polished vinyl

Re: Double Polished vinyl

I'm no expert but I would think the difference between clear vinyl and polished clear vinyl is that the latter has been polished.

I know that when I polish my car the clear coat gets clearer...

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Boat Curtains?

20 gauge eisenglass is very thin for boat curtains. 30 gauge is the standard and 40 is pretty heavy (think Stratoglass). A home machine would not have the guts to sew thru 40 gauge and 4 layers of Top Gun (2 layers folded over for finished edges). A commercial machine is a must.
There is no peel & stick zipper made, nor double sided tape, that have the adhesive quality needed to hold the weight of a canvas curtain together. Especiall once they're put together or you actually start moving down the water. You have basically 3 choices:

1) Stay with the light weight materials and sew with the home machine
2) Look on CL to find a used commercial machine cheaply ($250-$500 would be average)
3) Cut your heavier materials and take them to a local upholstery/canvas shop for stitching. Use UV rated Polyester threads or you'll be resewing them in a year or two.