PTFE Thread sources and questions

  • 01 Mar 2011 21:57
    Reply # 535682 on 535037
    Meps,
    I didn't answer one of your questions:
    I think a 17 oz spool of V69 thread will get you through the job, with the possibility of needing another smaller spool to finish off and to carry aboard for repairs.
  • 01 Mar 2011 21:12
    Reply # 535643 on 535037
    The other thing to bear in mind is that the stresses on the sail are so light, that if your stitching does start to go, it doesn't instantly unzip like it would on a Bm mainsail.  The seam can easily be re-stitched by hand, using a domestic needle through the old needle holes, on the next calm day or when you get to harbour.  If you used double-sided tape as a temporary measure while you were sewing, the sail will hold up for a surprising length of time with that alone.  As long as it's not acrylic, which doesn't like double-sided tape.
  • 01 Mar 2011 04:59
    Reply # 535059 on 535053
    David Tyler wrote: I use only black polyester V69 bonded thread. After 6 years with the current sails, including plenty of time in the tropics, I am seeing no degradation of the thread. Black lasts a lot longer than white, and you can see broken and chafed stitching readily against most colours. 

    Yes, thats what I also use now days. Not so pretty to look at but apart from that in every way superior to white and my sewing machine loves it.
  • 01 Mar 2011 04:19
    Reply # 535053 on 535037
    I use only black polyester V69 bonded thread. After 6 years with the current sails, including plenty of time in the tropics, I am seeing no degradation of the thread. Black lasts a lot longer than white, and you can see broken and chafed stitching readily against most colours. 
  • 01 Mar 2011 03:51
    Reply # 535046 on 535037
    If you are using Dacron sail cloth, do not use PTFE thread. The cloth will just cut through it. Also if you read the "lifetime warranty"  you will see that if it is used for sailmaking, the warranty does not apply.

    It will work with Odyssey III and Top Gun however it is a real bitch to sew with. Lots of missed stitches etc... The problems are caused by it being very slippery and its not being round in section, its flat.

    My machine a Sailrite LZ1 absolutely hated the stuff. I did one sail with it.... never again.
    Last modified: 01 Mar 2011 03:51 | Anonymous member
  • 01 Mar 2011 03:27
    Message # 535037
    Deleted user
    I've been doing research into using PTFE thread to sew our sails, after seeing how quickly UV rots the thread in things like biminis. PTFE is considered "lifetime" thread and is expected to outlast the fabric. The downside is, it costs a LOT more than polyester thread.

    I have seen three brands of the stuff:

    Tenara - $US 129/8 oz
    http://www.sailrite.com/Tenara-Thread-Canvas-Awning-Camper-Tarp-Outdoor-UV-Resistant-Thread
    8 oz = 1595 yds

    Solarfix - $US 165/16 oz
    http://www.miamicorp.com/default.aspx?page=category%20search%20results&CatUid=29884&CatList=34912&Parent=29874
    8 oz = 1125 yds

    Helios P - $US 99/8 oz
    http://www.rochfordsupply.com/shop/Thread_and_Bobbins/Polyester_Thread/Helios_P_-_Lifetime_Guarantee_Thread/index.html
    8 oz = 1700 yds

    Solar ThreadT and Profilen are alternative brands of PTFE thread. I haven't found sources for them yet.

    This research brings up the following questions:
    • How much thread did you need to sew your sails?
    • Has anyone used PTFE threads with success?
    Thanks for any thoughts on this. I'm leaning towards the Helios, in part because I plan to order our Odyssey III from Rochford anyway.

    ~ Meps



    Last modified: 01 Mar 2011 03:27 | Deleted user
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