1990 Four Winns Horizon - Amateur DIY

[Woodonglass]

I'd use Piping On ALL seams. Tensioning will be your Biggest Learning curve. I recommend using the vinyl cording used for window screens for your piping cording. It's cheap and won't rot. I checked your manual and it has pics that show you and talk about tensioning. Like Corjen stated the stitch length is set on that Big Round Knob on the right side of your machine and it should STAY ON 6 and NEVER EVER MOVE!!!!! The bobbin and the Top Tension need to be adjusted for different thicknesses. When the thickness changes you need to adjust the tension. The bobbin tension stays pretty constant. Top Tension is usually between 6 and 8. Presser foot downward pressure needs to be on the light side. Use #18 Needles sometimes called Jeans Needles. Use Upholstery Dacron Thread with UV Protection. I get mine online from TRIMJOBBER on eBay. I buy ONLY SCHMETZ needles. Always start and finish sewing by burying your needle and then making two or three forward stitches and then 2-3 back stitches to lock your seams. Don't hesitate to ask if you have further questions.

 

[rickryder]

You don't want to run piping against each other... You use one at the seam. Do you still have the old covers to use as a pattern?

 

[pantaloonz]

WOW,

Such awesome answers, you guys must be getting sick of me by now!.

Corjen: I did start reading the manual, and now I understand your stitch length, and as you can see from my little test runs, I'll need to set the tension and the stitch length accordingly.

WoodonGlass; thanks for continuing on the conversation and awesome advice on the needles and piping, I'll pick up the correct needle and thread ASAP. I've got a bit more reading to do on the tension part of the machine, but I think I'm getting a better understanding. I had NO clue the thread should be UV resistant.. or there was even thread made like that.. I'm sure the thread in it now is common sewing thread..

Rick: Thank you once again for chiming in, no I didn't plan on piping running together, but I wasn't sure in this case if piping was a good idea because the two pieces of fabric will essentially be on the same 'plane' if you will, it's not a seam which corners around the cushion so I wasn't sure if piping made sense.

You guys are awesome, I'm feeling good about where this project is heading now!

I'd throw you each a six pack if I could reach.

-Pantz

 

[pantaloonz]

Its been a long time Gents.

I lost my phone and therefore lost all my intermediate pictures, but the boat went on the water this weekend.

I redid the seats, the back side cushions, the bow, and the top of the engine cover. I learned to sew,.. and went simple. It's by far not perfect..

But, it weighs a lot less. The material I used is decent quality. The whole boat SMELLS a lot better. Here's some pics..

The family LOVES it, and that's what matters most.



Wife wants to redo carpet next season... I'm scared of what I might find below decks... The floor of this boat is solid but you know it's old.. I don't want to have to redo floor, foam, stringers etc etc... (but I might)

Next item for me is probably a new tank, from the looks of it probably the third one for this boat. The hose connections are starting to wear and the fuel gauge does not work

I suspect the interior to last for up to 5 seasons, the sewing isn't fantastic, but it's miles better from where I started.. and it smells nice!

Thanks again to all who helped me.

-Pantz

 

[Corjen1]

I think it looks great, and if you are happy, thats what counts!!! Congrats on the splash!!

 

[Tnstratofam]

Congratulations on your splash. I too think the interior looks great. Hope you have a great summer with her. Keep us posted on any updates.