Having done the research and spoken to other cruisers, I decided to take the plunge and buy myself a Sailrite. I already knew the basics of sewing and had a Brother home sewing machine, but didn't have any experience with heavy duty canvas work.
The Sailrite was one of the more expensive options but I felt it was worth it given the brands reputation and the excellent level of online support that appeared to be available. I'd also heard first hand accounts from cruisers who said they'd paid for their Sailrite and then some doing upholstery and sewing for other cruisers.
Ordering my Sailrite sewing machine
I ordered the Sailrite Ultrafeed LSZ-1 Basic package. I chose the LSZ-1 for its ability to do a zig-zag stitch and the Basic package because it was the most cost effective way to get the pieces I wanted. The packages and prices do change over time but I think getting the zig zag machine is worth it.
Our yacht is 220-240V to suit our Australian appliances so I purchased the 220-240V Sailrite. It comes with an EU plug which isn't too much of a hassle as many of SV Liger's power points are universal.
Along with the machine I also ordered some extra equipment and spare parts.
Equipment:
Monster II Balance Wheel (Came with a spare 18.6" Cogged Timing Belt)
Cording Foot Set
Left Roping Zipper Foot
1" Swing-Away Binder
Size 18, Size 20, Size 22 needles
V-69 and V-92 Thread
Spares:
Cogged Timing Belt 8"
Retaining Ring Clips Set
Thread Take-Up Spring
Bobbin Case
Scarfed Shuttle Hook
2x Retaining Ring Cap Spring
Sailrite delivery
Delivery to Australia is expensive so I tried to order everything I thought I'd need in the initial order. It was shipped by UPS and arrived in good condition.
Setting up my Sailrite
I found the Sailrite Ultrafeed very easy to set up and begin using. Most of it is intuitive but any time I was unsure I was able to quickly watch a video from Sailrite's YouTube channel and figure it out.
One thing to keep in mind is that the machine is VERY heavy, especially with the wooden base, so you may need someone to help with the assembly.
What I've used my Sailrite LSZ-1 for
To give you a few ideas for projects here's a sample of things I've made with my Sailrite.
Custom covers for the generator, BBQ, dive compressor, tender console, spade, dive knives and gauges using heavy duty fabrics and neoprene
Heavy duty duffle bags for scuba gear
Repairs to backpacks, straps, the sail bag, clothes and worn canvas
A helm chair bag with pockets custom sized for the items we use frequently
Heavy duty ensign flag
Custom cushions for the tender and yacht
Future projects will including making new cushion covers for our saloon and sun covers for the scuba tanks.
My thoughts on the Sailrite LSZ-1
I've now had my Sailrite sewing machine for a few years now and here's what I think based on my experience.
The Sailrite LSZ-1 is a heavy duty, well built piece of machinery that seems like it will last if maintained. I appreciate that spare parts are readily available to purchase for a reasonable price.
With the Monster Wheel installed the machine builds up quite a bit of momentum. If you're sewing quickly it can do 2-3 extra stitches after your foot comes off the pedal which can take a bit of getting used to. That being said it's well worth having; I use it to manually sew through thick material almost every time I use the machine.
I find neoprene to be one of the most difficult material to sew, but after some trial and error discovered that a Size 18 needle with V-69 thread works well.
The zig-zag stitch is useful for everyday sewing to seal and reinforce edges so I'm glad I upgrade to the LSZ-1 model.
I would love to get the Sailrite Worked-B PowerPack but it's not available for 240V machines. Part of the reason for this is I like the idea of having a spare motor since we're remote area cruisers.
If you're planning to do a lot of sewing on your boat I'd consider getting a hot knife too. I was blown away by how much easier it made things. I have the Sailrite 240V version because it was all that was available for that power input in the Caribbean. It works very well but if you have other options available that are less expensive it may be worth considering.
So is it worth it?
If you can sew then having a machine aboard is absolutely worth it. We have the Sailrite and a Brother light sewing machine and I use both more frequently than I ever expected.
To date the Sailrite has worked perfectly and the construction means that if anything were to break I can replace it, as long as Sailrite are still making the parts. Personally I'm very happy with my choice and based on my experience would recommend the machine to other cruisers.
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