Messages

I'm looking to buy a Juki model DU141 NH. Does anyone know anything about this machine? I do boat upholstery and some canvas work at my home. Any advice would be appreciated.

Here is what I have done on a couple of pontoon decks (takes the muscle out of removing carpet):
You'll need a come-along (see Harbor freight tools).
1 short section of chain
1 2x4x8
Start at the front of the pontoon and pull carpet back approx. 8 inches (across full width of pontoon). This might be tedious but is a must.
You can split the carpet into 2 or 3 sections if you need to (run a razor knife through the carpet front to rear of the deck) Shorten your 2x4 to the desired width.
Staple the carpet to the 2x4 (2 inch side) then roll the 2x4 rearward 1 full turn. Cut a hole in the center of the carpet after the full turn and attach the ratchet end of the come-along to the 2x4 using the  small length of chain through this hole.
Attach the other end of the come-along to the rear of the boat (use some method that will be strong and will not destroy the decking).
Then ratchet the carpet rearward (having another person scrape the carpet as you go if possible) this method keeps the carpet low (near the deck) and tends to pull the carpet off the wood leaving less fiber. Use the wire brush cup on your drill motor to remove the remaining fibers.

I have done a few boat seats and each style has a difference price. You have to figure vinyl cost, how long it takes to remove the covers, make/cut patterns, make weld cording (there's a lot of weld cording on these seats), sew together and re-staple. Sewing time will be more because of all the insert panels (20 pieces just on the front of one bucket seat in the pic). If the wood is still good on the seats, great. But if you have to replace any you'll have to charge labor for cutting a new one and supple cost (stainless steel staples/screws and marine plywood are not cheap). Does any of the foam have to be replaced/repaired? Don't forget to figure your labor time if you remove and reinstall the seats on the boat. Be realistic about your labor hours and material cost and don't sell yourself short. None of us like to work for nothing. I tell my customers it could cost as high as $$$ or as low as $$$ and explain the difference is because sometimes you just don't know until you tear it apart. Good luck, hope I helped out a little.

I like that idea very much. IF I find one I will post it for you. Thank you for your help.

Kodydog, It's the vinyl they used in the 50's for kitchen chairs. sofadoc, the cheapest I had found was at barstools & chairs at $31.95/yd. Thank you both for your input.

I am looking for Cracked Ice vinyl in red for a customer. Does anyone suggest a good supplier for this vinyl? Thank you for any help you can offer. I have learned a lot on this form, you people are great.