Campers Tent Maker

Posted By: Jim I, 94 S25 'H2O', Wilmington, NC
Date: 8/28/09 6:56a.m.

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In Response To: Camper's Machine (link) (cristin)

Cristin, I am very happy with the machine. It does do multiple layers but you have to keep a sharp needle. I used size 20 and 22 needles that I purchased from Sailrite and went through a few packs. I was able to sew through multiple layers of Sunbrella and the chafe leather. The little table saw type fence guide is great. I had to tap out the two holes to thread the allen screws but it really helps you sew straight seams. Thread tension is the key. I played with the thread routing and used a combination of the way in the Camper machine instructions and the way Sailrite does it. Especially they way the thread goes to and around the tensioner knob in the left part of the photo. You can use the Sailrite video clips as a guide as well. One comment regarding the Camper vs. Sailrite machine, it is the same type of straight stitch machine, but I have to say the Sailrite folks make improvements that make their machine work better. Sailrite also offers the zig zag Ultrafeed if you want to do sails. There are two Sailrites on Craigslist in Wilmington, NC and they are asking $390 for the straight stitch and $490 for the ultrafeed, used! The one thing I would like to add to the machine is the monster wheel from Sailrite. It gives more stitching power and allows you to use the machine without power. Pretty cool, just pricey. Jim