Wife has been talking about pursuing a sewing hobby, beginning with making her own window dressings for the house. She buys a sewing machine and has my daughter interested. Long story short, after they play around a bit a light bulb goes off.

The boat needs some cushions redone. I've searched the OSO forums, but can't seem to find what material/yin yo to use. Anyone have a recommendation for the marine grade, exterior vinyl and foam so my wife can try her skills?

Not a home sewing machine will sew thru upholstery?? Had a friend sewing as a side job and seen several others and they all have HD sewing machines that can push a bigger needle??

You may give XT a call, I am sure he could point you in the right direction or even sell you the vinyl.

+1,,you really need a walking foot style machine to do a good job..i have a singer with a clutch style motor so you cant sew too fast..i like to go at my own pace and take my time..when choosing a vinyl make sure they all have this..
. Cold Crack Protection

. UV Stabilized Pigments

. Oil Stain Resistant

. Mildew Resistant

. Anti Fungal Resistant

. Ultra Violet Stability

. Sun Guard Protective

. Sulfide Stain Resistant

. Resistant To Salt Water Staining

Thanks for the replies so far. She got a machine with a walking step and heavier duty needles for jeans. Not sure if they are strong enough. But I figured I could get he materials and let her try. If it doesn't work, I'll get a professional to do the whole boat.

I have researched the same subject a few times. Here are some sites that have good info and material your looking for.

http://www.sailrite.com/Fabric#!Fabric

http://www.outdoortextiles.com/

http://enduratex.com/index.php/browse this is one of the companies cigarette uses on it boats,,,the endurasoft

Ayuh,.... Sunbrella fabrics are great for cushions,...

'n polyester threads,... gotta beat the UV rays,...

The Boat Top Shop that made my tops siad that Formula Boats had the best quality seats he had seen. Maybe you can ask on their forum.

i usehttp://www.sailrite.com/Fabric#!Fabric they have free video you can wacth on how to redone seats and tops they sell all the things you need i did my boat and looks great

first go to joann fabrics and buy any old cheap vinyl. then put 4 layers together and see if it'll sew it. you usually only need 2 layers at once, but if you are putting piping in the seam, you are using 4 layers. I have a Chinese knock-off of the sailrite machine and it does it, but not that well...