What kind of thread and needle for ripstop?

harriet · Since 10 Jun 2007 64 Posts

I've got a major repair to do, and have always used aquaseal and ripstop in the past, but want to start sewing. What size needle should I get for our home sewing machine, and what type of thread?
I've used nylon when hand sewing, but it seems to "bunch up" the material.
Any advice is appreciated.

Aeolus · Thu Jun 16, 11 6:58 am

This UV resistant V-30A works well for the canopy and the zig zag dacron patches on the leading edge. Can't remember the needle size...singer 110/18 believe...could go smaller i think.

I've purchased repair supplies in bulk from this place...thread, dacron tape in all flavors, stick/non stick..you can team up with friends and put together a nice repair kit for low $
http://www.goodwinds.com/

good prices on all manner of bulk repair materials....our kites are mostly ripstop polyester I think...and these guys have very high quality ripstop nylon (spinnaker cloth) I replaced a panel with it....works just fine.

The nylon is slippery shit...I spot glued then sewed big pieces. The small patches I used sail tape and stitched it in...

Smokejumper just joined our crew..he fixes parachutes...will learn more this year..

have fun Very Happy