Sewing Capabilities

Sewing table

OUTDOOR SEWING SOLUTIONS have 6 industrial sewing machine of which 4 are set into a 18 meter table.

The two machines not set into the table are a Bar tacking machine and Global zigzag machine we use for binding.

Machine range from straight stitch to zigzag and bar taking machines.

Two machines are long arm machines which allow us to manage larger jobs by reaching further into the middle of panels. This is go for new manufacturing jobs so we do not crease the materials while sewing and great for repairing large jobs being able to get more material under the machine.

The different stitch capabilities of each machine means we can work more efficiently. One job might require different stitch type and thread weights. 

What is a compound walking foot?
There are a few different variations of the walking foot feed system, but the most common one is the triple, a.k.a. compound feed system. Compound feed sewing machines have two alternating presser feet which move the material by synchronising the motion of the needle-bar, the inside presser foot and the bottom feed dog.
IMG_0001-e1512152327709 Sewing Capabilities

Juki 2828-6

Juki LU-2828-6

Fully automated Air compressed straight stitch sewing machine.
new 2021

juki Sewing Capabilities
IMG-0972-e1512933502794 Sewing Capabilities

Highlead Long Arm

Twin needle walking foot

For large and heavy jobs - Lap seams for Glamping roof seams and Caravan and tent seams

Glamping - Caravan awnings - Tents

Solent-sewing-machine Sewing Capabilities

Solent long arm sewing Machine

Cam change macine

ZigZag 2 step

Zigzag 3/6 Step

Straight stitch

Windsurf Sail - Dinghy sails - Laminate sails - Large heavy duty sails - Sacrificial strips

IMG-0966-e1511211612957 Sewing Capabilities

Brother sewing machine

Straight stitch walking foot

Heavy duty machine for canvas items

Boat cover - Awnings - Yurts

IMG-0965-e1511211626905 Sewing Capabilities

Phaff Six step sewing machine

Six step

Spinnaker seams

Nylon material

Sail laminates

Tent lap seams 

Light weight materials

 

IMG-0967-e1511211592100 Sewing Capabilities

Global Zigzag sewing machine

Zigzag stitch up to 10mm

Light to medium weight materials

Binding machine

Over the edge lock stitching for raw edges

 

bar-tack Sewing Capabilities

Bar tacking

28 stitch bar tacking

heavy duty

For webbing

IMG_0843 Sewing Capabilities

20 Tonne Press

Press for eyelets in corners of canopies and sails.

Rutgerson Super rings - Endeavour Ringd

Headboard Liner for Aluminium Headboards 

 

Threads

Threads:

We only use the leading anti-wick thread for sewing operations in awnings, tents, boat covers, tarpaulins and sail making, to promote longevity of our workmanship.

With continued exposure to sunlight and weather, the threads we use are formulated to prevent colour fade and retain strength by spinning a sheath of cotton around a core of continuous filament polyester. It is then coated with an anti-wicking agent to prevent water absorption and water migration along the thread, thus assisting the thread to maintain its dexterity.

What service are you looking for from OUTDOOR SEWING SOLUTIONS

What service are you looking for from OUTDOOR SEWING SOLUTIONS

We are making it easier for you to find the information you want on our Website by setting up categories.

We have just started this process and with your own requests to our site and on the email we are starting to come up with more and more Blogs with we hope helpful information.

Please see the below categories for the information suitable for you.

More info and categories will come in the future and don't forget to send in your request for more info on your pet subject.

Categories

Caravan, Awning & Tent

Contract Sewing

Contract Sewing

Glamping

Marine & Sails

 

"we've got the outdoors sewn up"

If you require more information, see our facebook page


This message is only visible to admins.
Problem displaying Facebook posts. Backup cache in use.
Click to show error
Error: API access deactivated. To reactivate, go to the app dashboard. Type: OAuthException

 

Yacht Keelboat sails

posted in: Uncategorized | 0

Keelboat sail repairs and servicing in now available in the North of England.

In our 4th year of trading, OUTDOOR SEWING SOLUTIONS can now offer a full range of sailmaking services for sailing boat up to 50 foot.

With the investment over the winter, we now have the capabilities to service heavier sails for a boat up to 50 foot.

More investment will be made in the future to improve this offer even further.

 

We have purchased a second-hand Solent sewing machine which has been designed and build for the Medium to heavy range of sails.

With this and our twin needle longarm, there are not many sails we are not able to service.

 

The list of capabilities for sails is as below.

 

 

 

Frers-65-9 Yacht Keelboat sails

Yacht KeelBoat sails service and repair for the North of Engalnd

Longarm sewing machine, zig-zag, three step and straight stitch

Outdoor Sewing Solutions has invested in a Longarm sewing machine that will do stitch in zig-zag, three step and straight stitch.

The Solent 98-650 Longarm has been purchased for Sail repairs and manufacture.

Solent machine is specially manufactured for the sailmaking industry and will give us Zigzag stitch and triple stitch on light heavy jobs.

This machine will fill a gap in our machine armoury for making one design sails, repairing Mylar and Windsurf sails without the need to roll the sail as tight, therefore risking creasing the materials.

Windsurf repair can now be done more efficiently as well as Myler dinghy sails.

 

Solent-sewing-machine Yacht Keelboat sails

Solent long arm sewing Machine

Cam change machine

ZigZag 2 step

Zigzag 3/6 Step

Straight stitch

Zigzag and Triple stitch seaming to Heavy duty corners. The most versatile machine for sailmaking machine for all round sailmaking.

Windsurf Sail - Dinghy sails - Laminate sails - Large heavy duty sails - Sacrificial strips

Keelboat sails repair and servicing.

Untitled-image-4 Yacht Keelboat sails
IMG-0972-e1512933502794 Yacht Keelboat sails

Highlead Long Arm

Twin needle walking foot

Heavy duty for sewing webbing onto corner patches of sails.

For large and heavy jobs - Lap seams for Glamping roof seams and Caravan and tent seams

Glamping - Caravan awnings - Tents

Phaff Six step sewing machine

Six step

Spinnaker seams

Nylon material

Sail laminates

Tent lap seams

Light weight materials

IMG-0965-e1511211626905 Yacht Keelboat sails
IMG-0966-e1511211612957 Yacht Keelboat sails

Brother sewing machine

Straight stitch walking foot

Sail bolt rope repairs and canvas cover repairs.

Heavy duty machine for canvas items

20 Tonne Press

Press for eyelets in corners of canopies and sails.

Rutgerson Super rings - Endeavour Ringd

Headboard Liner for Aluminium Headboards

IMG_0843 Yacht Keelboat sails
 Yacht Keelboat sails

Glamping & canvas contract manufacture

Yurts ⛺️ by design digitally cut to your specification.

From Concept to Consumer.
"We've got the outdoors sewn-up"
Teepee - Yurt - Bell Tent 

 

2016: OSS built partnerships with companies in the Glamping industry and as of November 2016, we started supplying winter servicing solutions for yurts, teepee's, bell-tents and more.

2017:  design, digital cutting and manufacture of Glamping canvases.

2017: £4k investment in a new twin needle long arm sewing machine and folding plates to further enhance the quality of work OSS delivers to this sector. We now match the quality of manufacture of the larger players in the market.

OSS Target: supreme quality and competitive pricing for a complete product [design and manufacture].

So why pay someone for design, digital cutting and materials?

Whilst OSS can provide a complete service from design through to product finish, we know price is always at the forefront of a purchase so we strive to do all we can to offer excellent value in the service we provide.

To that end, we enable our clients the facility to design and purchase their own materials and present either cut panels or raw materials to us for onward assembly. This means we only charge you for the work we do without added costs of purchasing your materials with large mark ups. This puts all control of costs back into your hands. OSS is also able to hold stock of your materials on site.

Working with OSS gives you confidence that we stitch and develop your design out of the materials you require leaving you in control of the finished products and your new developments going forward.

Small design changes can be easily dealt with when you are in charge and these can be incorporated into the assembly with minimum fuss and loss of material or time.

Once a design has been agreed, the panels are digitally cut and arrive at OSS for us to stitch your solutions together, no matter what the product you have ordered.

 

OSS: "We've got the outdoors sewn-up"

 

UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_38db-225x300 Glamping & canvas contract manufacture
First measure Yurt for canvas
2017-03-05_1901-300x189 Glamping & canvas contract manufacture
Design specification and panel layout for digital cutting
Yurt-design-225x300 Glamping & canvas contract manufacture
Digitally cut panels all labeled and ready for sewing
Yurt-Design3-2-225x300 Glamping & canvas contract manufacture
Colour matching to your specification.

 

Modifications, alterations and repairs

Ill fitting canvas, size changes or repairs, OSS will help you find a solution so your yurt looks better next season.

Repair can be done quickly by arrangement so you do not lose revenue through long lead time for repairs.

 

Yurt-door Glamping & canvas contract manufacture
Ill fitting yurt-door can be altered
Yurt-Modifications-copy-300x300 Glamping & canvas contract manufacture
Yurt Modifications
Guttering solution
16938682_773854429433614_8293278621552666229_n-225x300 Glamping & canvas contract manufacture
Teepee rip repair
17022155_773854452766945_353067497040551870_n-225x300 Glamping & canvas contract manufacture
Repaired Teepee

 

*Servicing - *Inspection - *Alterations - *Parts replacements - *Repair kits - Repair tape - Repair Glue

Camping / Contract Sewing / Glamping / Sailmaking

Commercial and Industrial Sewing Contractor

IMG_0755-225x300 Commercial and Industrial Sewing Contractor

When starting my new venture I knew that being a sailmaking in landlocked North of England was not a great business plan.

With a little market research it came apparent although there is a little cover manufacturing in the North of England, there was no service support for many outdoor sewn products. Bell tents to swimming pool cover repairs were amongst the first project I found along with structural design constancy and prototyping services were required for small to Multinational companies.

Solutions were required for new products and servicing of existing products.

Outdoor Sewing Solutions are currently undertaking work for companies from a wide spectrum of industry sectors mostly involved in the leisure activity sectors such as Caravan accessories, Caravan awning manufactures, Climbing walls manufactures, Marine servicing, Boat building and more including The Institute for Outdoor Learning.

CONCEPT TO CONSUMER:

project management: concept consultancy, design, fabric textile specification, prototyping, knife and laser cutting, product fabrication.

Repair and servicing:

Services: Alterations (awning extension & reductions), Cleaning, Accessories shop,

Products: Caravan awnings, Sails, Swimming pool covers, Sail Shades

Specialising in heavy duty sewn products with a broad range of services across many sectors.

Heavy-duty sewing machines allow OSS to handle a massive range of material weights.

The Caravan & Motorhome Show 2016

OSS will be attending The Caravan & Motorhome Show from 21 – 24 January 2016, at Manchester’s EventCity. We will be visiting some of our clients that will be exhibiting in Manchester.

Each time we visit The Caravan and Motorhome show we meet people from our caravanning trips away or clients either commercial or private.

Hope to meet up with more of them this year, great day out for me!

Welcome to The Caravan & Motorhome Show

Start the season inspired at The Caravan & Motorhome Show, 21 – 24 January 2016, at Manchester’s EventCity.

With a huge choice of the latest model caravans, motorhomes and holiday homes on display from over 200 exhibitors, The Caravan & Motorhome Show is the perfect place to kick-start your UK caravanning adventures. Compare layouts, interiors and specifications of the latest models and take advantage of some superb show-only discounts from the region’s leading dealerships. Pick up great ideas for exploring the best of the British countryside with fascinating talks and presentations from expert speakers and celebrities in our new show attraction, Get Back to Nature.

Many great reasons to visit:

  • Huge choice of new model touring caravans, motorhomes and holiday homes – use our Product Finder tool to browse what will be at the show
  • Save £££’s on essential season accessories
  • Pick up exciting holiday inspiration from expert speakers and celebs at our new Get Back to Nature stage
  • Enjoy free car parking at EventCity with over 3,000 spaces
  • Free show guide
  • Kids under 16 go free
  • Free entry to the co-located Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show

Book your tickets today to experience the North’s biggest caravan & motorhome show at EventCity, Manchester!

 

http://www.caravanshows.com/

logo_2016 The Caravan & Motorhome Show 2016

Tent & Caravan awning repairs

Tent & Caravan awning repairs

 

Go to OUTDOOR SEWING SOLUTIONS Web Site Page for Awning repairs and services.

 

Covering and servicing the UK

Autumn is the time to check your tent & awning is ready for next season.
Check for any small repairs and that it is clean and dry before packing it away.

For others it is time to buy new caravans only to find that their awning requires alteration or replacement.

This is the time to look at Tent & Caravan awning repairs that need to be done.

 

OSS offers cost effective solutions for these challenges.

 

Awning extension and reductions

We can alter your awning up to 75cm. Anti wicking threads keeps seams from leaking.

 

Tent and Awning repairs

Repairs from £30 or talk to us and we can supply options for you to do the repair at home yourself saving even more money.

 

Pre season servicing

Service you awning before you put it away and before the pre-season rush. prices start at £60.00 plus materials.

 

Awning and tent cleaning

With return customers for 3 years! OSS can send and receive your clean awning back so you do not need to wait at home for courier services. We charge a small handling fee for this of £15.00. Charge does not apply if you require us to service or repair your awning.
Standard Awning Clean (Up to and including 1050cm and of standard 2.5m width)

 

Tent and awning door, window mesh and zip replacement.

Maybe you want more windows or larger windows, all this is possible so give us a call and lets discuss what is possible.

 

Accessories

OSS is adding more accessories to our on-line shop to suit the requirements of our clients. If you are not able to find what you want, call us as we have a data base of 1000’s of product available to us.

 

Tent poles

We are able to order in poles to match your current sizes, lead time required to buy in the sizes you want.

 

Sailmaking

New sail and repairs as well as cover services.

 

We also repair and service Bell Tents, Glamping products and more…..

Caravan awning repair

Tent Services

Caravan Awning, Tents, Canvas repairs and care

IMG_0800-224x300 Tent & Caravan awning repairsIMG_0847-224x300 Tent & Caravan awning repairsIMG_0799-300x224 Tent & Caravan awning repairsIMG_0841-300x224 Tent & Caravan awning repairs

18722_496253487193711_1875162666687086926_n-300x300 Tent & Caravan awning repairs
Window full view
IMG_0809-225x300 Tent & Caravan awning repairs
Replacing window

RS Tera tips & links

posted in: RS Tera | 0

This document shows what is allowed in the current rules. 

The kicker system which is shown is available, complete and ready to fit, from Mike Saul.   It is a vast improvement on the basic V cleat and allows the helm to easily adjust the kicker whilst sailing.

rs_tera_permitted_modifications_2011 pdf

RS Tera Technical tips:

Winter Clothing, Thanks Jennie

RS Tera Links and reference Documents

RS Tera Coaching Brett Cokayne

RS Tera Coaching Bernard Clark

KEEPING WARM FOR WINTER SAILING

Thanks to Jennie Clark, Rebus Coaching and RS Tera for suppling this help full insight to keeping us all warm on the water.

Red Bus Coaching

http://www.redbuscoaching.com/about.html

RS Tera

http://www.rsteranorth.co.uk/

This article was first produced in 2013 and has been updated to take account of the wider range of products which are available now.

As we head towards the winter and thoughts turn to squad coaching, it’s perhaps a good time to look at some of the developments in sailing clothing, particularly for winter sailing.

In North squad we insist on ‘no bare legs’ (ie no hikers or shortie wetsuits) and the use of drysuits or winter grade ‘steamer’ wetsuits for all sessions. This is to ensure that helms are able to maintain core body heat if they capsize and also to meet club requirements at our coaching centres. These basic rules are just as valid for non-squad sailors who are going to be on the water during the winter months.

It’s important to understand that a drysuit is only as good as the thermal insulation you wear underneath it and a wetsuit only keeps you warm when you get a layer of water between you and the neoprene. So what can you do to help keep warm and avoid the very real danger of hypothermia?

Just as in any outdoor sport, the secret is to layer. Layers trap air between them and this helps to keep you warm. Drysuits offer no warmth at all, they just keep you dry. A good pair of thermals, worn underneath a fleece suit inside a drysuit will help you keep warm. There are some great suppliers of such gear, from the standard chandlery suppliers to your local outdoor clothing outlet. If you are buying a drysuit look out for offers on ‘woolly bear’ suits to go underneath – they are often available at reduced prices or come free with the suit. Last year we repeatedly had children coming off the water complaining that they were cold. In all cases checks revealed a failure to use good insulating under garments resulting in loss of heat from the core. In many cases sailors were wearing rash vests – these are designed to keep you cool and are no use for winter sailing in the UK.

Suggestions for layering with a drysuit are close fitting thermal leggings and vest (eg Helly Hansen, Crewsaver Tokko, Rooster Brushed Polypro) underneath a fleece ‘woolly bear’ (Gul and Crewsaver both make good ones), with either wool walking socks or purpose made sailing socks such as those made by Gill and Rooster. Make sure that the sailor is comfortable wearing these layers underneath the drysuit and if need be buy a bigger pair of boots (always put popsocks or drysuit socks over the latex feet of the suit to protect it from wear) so that toes aren’t crushed due to all the extra layers. Thermal gloves and a hat on top.

If you are wearing a steamer wetsuit, or one of the two piece combinations such as Rooster’s Supertherm long john and top, consider topping this off with one of the widely available thermally insulating dinghy sailing tops and make sure you have thermal layers underneath. The tops keep you dry but also have a thermal layer inside which gives more warmth than a standard spray top. There are a number of suppliers of these including Gill and Rooster. These also have the advantage that

1 | P a g e © redbuscoaching 2015 Version 2 Sept 2015

KEEPING WARM FOR WINTER SAILING

they are specifically designed to be quick drying. It’s also worth considering wearing waterproof ‘high trousers’ over your wetsuit to help keep you dry. If you want to wear hikers put them on over your steamer or drysuit, we won’t let you sail in them on their own. Don’t be tempted into buying a wetsuit ‘to grow into’ for winter sailing. Wetsuits have to fit really closely to work.

So that’s the body bit, but what about hands, feet and heads? You lose 30% of your body heat through your head so it’s easy to reduce that loss with a hat. Pick something that fits well and won’t get knocked off by the boom. It needs to have some thermal insulating properties. The ones made by Neil Pryde get rave reviews from some of our fleet – fleece lined and really warm.

Feet soon get cold if they are wet. A number of people make insulating socks, some of which are thin enough to go inside your normal sailing boot. Fitting extra thick socks into tight sailing boots can be a very uncomfortable experience and tight boots make for cold feet. It is worth considering having a ‘drysuit’ pair of boots which are bigger and allow you to move your toes around when wearing the drysuit and thick socks. As stated earlier, if you wear a drysuit protect the feet in it by putting popsocks or specially made ‘drysuit socks’ over the top of the rubber feet – your feet will slide into your boots much more easily.

Winter gloves are readily available too – look for the ones which are designed to keep your hands dry as this prevents heat loss. If you can afford it try and have a pair for each race, putting on wet gloves is a horrid experience! If you can’t, and/or if your hands get really cold try wearing a thin pair of rubbery gloves under your sailing gloves – they won’t provide any warmth but they will keep your hands dry which makes it all much more comfortable. You can buy a box of 100 pairs from places like eBay, Amazon and the local Pound Shop for less than £5.

Of course how cold you get is dependent on the weather. We’ve had winter sailing when it’s sub- zero but equally we’ve had it when it’s not too cold at all. The wind strength can make a huge difference – if there is little or no wind it’s easy to get cold quickly, whereas if you are working hard you will keep warm but windy conditions often mean capsizes . . . Make sure you have a range of options which suit the conditions but always remember that it’s better not to go afloat than to go afloat when you can’t cope or havn’t got the right gear.

The developments made in sailing gear over the last few years means that no-one needs to be cold when afloat – and most of the kit is available to suit adults and children alike. Make sure your winter coaching is comfortable and warm and let’s hope weather stays fine for some great winter sailing

2 | P a g e © redbuscoaching 2015 Version 2 Sept 2015

KEEPING WARM FOR WINTER SAILING

Our daughter’s favourite winter combination. Worn over polypro leggings and a polypro long sleeved top she’s been sailing in the snow and kept warm.

The drysuit option. Thermal legs and matching top, woolly bear suit and drysuit.

3 | P a g e © redbuscoaching 2015 Version 2 Sept 2015

KEEPING WARM FOR WINTER SAILING

Winter gloves and liners, specifically designed to keep hands warm

Don’t forget that you lose 30% of your body heat through your head – neck gaiters and balaclavas or beanies are essential in winter months.

Some great items for Christmas presents!

4 | P a g e

© redbuscoaching 2015

Version 2 Sept 2015 

All Weather Clothing For Summer and Winter sailing.

https://www.roostersailing.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=allwc&Store_Code=1

With some amazing developments in high performance sailboats in the last 5 years – what has the clothing industry done to keep up?

Sailing high performance sailboats requires a different approach to clothing than other related sports. The physical demands on the body are high yet the time waiting around between races either on or off the water can make us feel cold quickly. Added to that, we must consider that water takes heat from the body 27 times faster than air; at best we spend most of our time in the spray line. Getting cold can be at best uncomfortable – and sometimes even dangerous. Long periods can be spent on the water, where conditions can change from warm and gentle breezes – to strong sea breezes that result in high wind chill factors.

Getting too hot dehydrates us quickly, and can leave us feeling faint. 

Too cold – and our bodies start to shut down with an increased risk to joint and muscle injuries.

The never ending question is “what shall we wear on the water today?”
Because if I am comfortable – I’ll be able to concentrate better and sail faster!

“Until recently the developments did not seem to be directed at dinghy sailing – I must have cut the neck out of every steamer I ever owned! I used to use the Combi steamer to improve my upper body mobility, but then I got tennis elbow from unprotected wrist and elbow joints. My kit bag was massive – I had a Shortie Wetsuit, a long john, a 3/2 Combi, a Steamer and a Dry Suit. I used to travel to events in a van so that I could take it all! Leave one behind and the weather would change and I would wish it was there” – Steve Cockerill

You can see where my drive for designing a multi layered approach
to sailing equipment came from.

Recently neoprene hiking shorts have revolutionised the protection and comfort aspect for hiking boats, covering the legs and lower organs with neoprene, leaving the way open to find warm flexible fabrics to cover the top half of the body.

But there is more to sailing fabrics than just neoprene. In the last three years we developed a top/mid layer garment from a really thin polyester fleece with a 0.3mm coating of Urethane. It is an amazingly durable and waterproof² fabric and yet can be washed and tumble dried repeatedly¹. It acts as a fantastic wind chill protection layer when worn as an outer layer on its own and offers plenty of warmth when worn as a mid layer in extreme conditions. It is a vapour permeable fabric which we have called ‘aquafleece’.

Lighter thinner neoprene fabrics have been developed that allow more stretch and more warmth for their weight. Very thin neoprene (0.5mm) has been successfully laminated onto a Lycra or nylon covering which we have made into a long sleeved top called a ‘hot-top’. It is an ideal warming mid/base layer, and can even work well as a top layer in very warm climates. This range has also allowed the trapeze sailor to go back to his old favourite – the long john. However with lycra or nylon outer layers, water can collect in the coatings which is ideal for evaporation but bad for wind chill protection.

The three models above show what to wear in a hiking dinghy in a range of conditions from very hot, tropical conditions to warm conditions here in the UK.

The first model is wearing Rooster Polyamide Lycra Leggings with a Rooster Polyamide Lycra Long Sleeved Top, which is UV resistant and cooling to the skin. Being white it also reflects the suns heat better.

All three of the models are wearing stretchy Rooster ¾ length Neoprene Hiking Shorts, and Rooster Hiking Boots, which are made with supporting straps locking the heel into position when hiking, and giving your knees support.

The third model is wearing a Rooster Hot Top which is a technical base layer made from 0.5mm neoprene with titanium lining reflecting all your upper body heat right back to you – for a warmer sail in summer.

The first model above is dressed for moderate winds in warm summer conditions, where wind chill can still have a big effect on your overall temperature. He is wearing a Rooster Aquafleece which acts as a thermal layer and a windproof and waterproof² outer layer.

The second model above has stepped into Autumn and has added a set of Rooster Polyamide Leggings and a Rooster Polyamide Lycra Top, to his Hikers and Aquafleece, keeping him warm as the seasons and weather are changing for the worse.

The third Model is now at the end of Autumn and entering the coldest sailing season – winter.

He has added a Rooster Hot Top which is available in both Male and Female sizes, and a Rooster Raceskin – a unisex Long John style product which fits very comfortably underneath a pair of Rooster ¾ Length Hiking Shorts.

The Raceskin is made from very thin neoprene with a terry lining to give it softness against the skin with added warmth and shape. It is a fantastic way of making your winter sailing feel like summer!

Finally the model has added a set of Winter Pro Gloves to his layering system, these gloves are made using neoprene and have excellent thermal qualities and shape.

The final two models…..

We are now fully into the Winter Sailing Season and heading for the coldest part which tends to be January and February in the UK. For this cold weather sailing you need your base layers of Rooster Polyamide Top, and Rooster Polyamide Leggings, your Hot Top and Raceskin, before you put on your Rooster Aquafleece (available in ladies cut and colours) and then your Rooster ¾ length Hiking Shorts add to that your Winter Pro Gloves and you’ll be warm on the water whilst still retaining the flexibility of movement you need to race.

The final model pictured above on the right is dressed for cold winter weather – the kind of extremes that put most people off sailing in the winter altogether. We think its such a shame because if you dress for the conditions you will stay warm and enjoy your sailing all year round.

You may have noticed that the final model is wearing a Rooster Beanie Hat which is made from the Aquafleece fabric which is windproof – meaning you need never have a cold wet head again! The Rooster Beanies clever design means it won’t fall off even if you get it wet!

The final part of the Rooster DS Layering system is the Rooster Dry Top which is made from a heavy duty breathable fabric that is flexible, comfortable and totally waterproof.

The total DS Layering system can be purchased on our website www.roostersailing.com for a price not dissimilar to the cost of a Drysuit which you might only wear for 2-3 months of the year – here we are offering a year round solution to your sailing kit needs, and at a good price too!

You need not worry again about what you need to wear to go sailing next, or find when you are out that you are cold, miserable and not enjoying your sailing.

Make sure you follow the size charts online closely when ordering online and read the washing instructions!

Happy Sailing

1.

Wash the Rooster Aquafleece inside out at 40ºC and tumble dry on a low heat.

2.

Although the Aquafleece is made from a waterproof fabric, the garment should not be worn as a Dry-Top

Caravan awning tips for cleaning, maintenance and repair

http://www.isabella.net/uk/support/tips/cleaning–maintenance-and-repair

LEAKS – AQUATEX

If the waterproofing quality of the canvas has been affected, the damage can usually be rectified by using “AquaTex” impregnator spray. The awning must be thoroughly dry and clean before application. “AquaTex” will not function on dirt; therefore, the canvas should be sprayed on the inside of the awning. If there are any leaks in the material, “AquaTex” will penetrate and be effective on the outside as well. If the material is very dry, you may notice some discolouration on the outside. To regularise the colour, simply spray on the outside as well. DON’T FORGET it is most important to clean the aw-ning inside and out BEFORE impregnation as any deposits on the material will negate the properties of the “AquaTex”. For example, nicotine from cigarettes will affect the material and the waterproofing. It is a good idea to have a can of “AquaTex” handy at all times as it has a wide variety of uses besides impregnating your awning. For instance, if you experience difficulty in drawing your awning beading through the caravan channel, spray the channel and the awning will slip through easily. “AquaTex” can also be used on stiff zips, removal of stains and, even impregnating your shoes or boots.

 

CLEANING CANVAS AND WINDOWS

Firstly, detergent or cleaning agents must not be used. Clean with plenty of pure water and a soft brush, the type used to clean your car is ideal. Spray water onto the canvas and loosen the dirt with the brush. Remove the dirt with a steady flow of water. Ideally this cleaning process should take place a couple of times a year and is easiest when the awning is erected. Exposed parts such as roof, sides and corners need careful attention. NEVER use spirit or polishes on the PVC windows. This advice applies to synthetic awnings only. The curtains supplied with Isabella awnings should be washed at 30°C.
Note! Do not tumble dry.


STEEL FRAMEWORK

The standard framework in an Isabella awning is made of hot-galvanised steel tubing with corners and centrecross made of light-weight plastic material. The tubes are joined with a spring and extreme care should be taken with the poles during assembly and dismantling of the awning frame. Careless use will result in the springs being either pulled out or overstreched. Every effort is put into ensuring a maximum lifespan for your steel frame. However, it should be maintained and cared for in the same way as the awning canvas. That is, dirt and earth should always be removed and the poles should be dry and clean before storing. It is also recommended to treat the poles with a wax (such as used on cars). All the spikes on corners and cross are fitted with a rubber grommet which always has to be firmly fixed wide side uppermost between frame and canvas. The rubber grommets prevent water from penetrating.To secure the awning further, rubber grommets can be fitted on the outside, too (wide side uppermost). Grommets are available as an optional extra.


FIBRE GLASS/CARBONX FRAMEWORK

Most Isabella awnings can now be supplied with a lightweight IXL fibre glass/CarbonX frame. This flexible strong frame is corrosion resistant and less likely to experience condensation than a steel frame. These are very easy to maintain, a quick wipe before storage to remove dirt and earth is all that’s needed. If the couplings slide, we recommend cleaning the inside of the fittings and the adjustable tube with white spirit. The position of IsaFix clamps,where fitted, can be adjusted with a screw driver for optimum tension.
IsaFix can be retro fitted on any Fibreglass/CarbonX frame.

LOWER PANEL

Under certain circumstances it may seem like the lower panel is changing structure and is getting lighter in places. On closer examination we have ascertained that this usually is caused by a kind of algae, this means small insect eggs, which are laid in the dents of the material. If you look at these through a magnifying glass, you can take off the egg with a needle point. However the best way to remove these is to use AquaTex impregnator spray and wipe off with a soft cloth maybe together with a soft brush. AquaTex impregnator also counteracts future attacks.
The “algae” appears both on PVC/polyester and acryl, but is more obvious on a PVC/polyester background.


CLEANING THE BLINDS (CREAM PLEATED) ON VISION AND OPUS AWNINGS

This light weight and light coloured material has been tested for appearance and durability in use for Blinds. We are satisfied that the Nylon construction will hold it’s pleated shape and perform to the high standard expected.


To clean the product

  • Remove the blinds from the awning.
  • Stretch the parts of material affected to lay as flat as possible.
  • Brush off any dirt with a soft brush or cloth which will remove normal dust and should remove specific stains
  • If the above is unsuccessful then tepid (not hot) water should be applied sparingly with a soft brush and agitated to remove dirt spots, rinse well and hang to dry immediately with the material slightly pleated but not folded tight


REPLACE BAYONET FITTINGS

900060055 Cream For 22mm Zinox or IXl poles
900060083 Cream For 26mm Fibremax poles
900060260 Charcoal Grey For 22mm Zinox or CarbonX poles
900060243 Charcoal Grey For 26mm Fibremax CarbonX poles
The bayonet fittings are a push fit part. No glue is necessary.

To remove and existing part the easiest way is often to unclamp the telescopic coupling and remove the thin pole to which the bayonet is fitted.
Push a thinner rod inside the tube to remove the bayonet end fitting.
Replace the bayonet with a new one, part number as shown, Replace the thin tube and retighten the telescopic coupling.  

ZIPPER

Isabella use nylon spiral zips, on this quality zip the slider moves smoothly even on the corners. If you encounter problems with the running of the zips, ensure that the awning is assembled and tensioned correctly. Avoid using force on your zip. Make sure that both halves of the zip are correctly aligned. Take the strain off the zips by cross pegging at the base, re adjusting where necessary for smooth running sliders.
DO NOT LUBRICATE WITH OIL. We recommend that you lubricate the zips with AquaTex silicone spray. If the zip separates in use – don’t worry- the slider is worn and can be easily replaced, the zip is not faulty. This usually occurs when one zip is used for a prolonged period of time and the slider is no longer gripping the zip spirals together. See Replacing sliders/stop ends for handy hints.

Maintenance tips

  • Never use force.
  • To avoid damaging the stop ends, care should be taken when assembling the panels.
  • Always keep the zips clean and free of dirt and sand.
  • A silicone based spray AquaTex acts as an efficient lubricant used sparingly. By using AquaTex, the sliders will move smoothly on the zip, and at the same time ensure that the fabric around the zip is waterproofed. The spray helps prevent water ingress through the teeth.
  • Prolonged lubrication will occasionally cause the zip to lose its “lock” i.e. it opens up after the slider has been pulled. This usually indicates that the slider is worn and needs to be replaced.
  • Always use a veranda bar to support the zip, when using the awning veranda style ie with the top half unzipped.


REPLACEMENT OF ZIP SLIDERS

Zips are an important part of the awning and are often in constant use, it is important to maintain and care for their various parts. Since they do most of the work, the sliders are very exposed to wear and tear, if the zip is separating in use it easy it is to replace the sliders and remedy this. With correct zip maintenance, wear and tear on all awning parts is reduced. The sliders are designed to be removable – if the sliders are off the panel or roof follow these simple instructions to re- fit them.

  1. Remove the panel from the awning completely.
  2. There are 2 sliders on the roof and two on the panel. Identify the “stop end” of the zip b2 which has a nib and the “feeder end” which is smooth. Pull the sliders to the feeder end of the zip b1, and they will come off.
  3. Put two sliders onto each zip half. The sliders have a fat side for the ridge of the zip and thin for the back of the zip. Also sliders have dome and flat edges. Align the sliders ‘fat to fat’ and ‘flat to flat’ as in the video. Feed these round to the “stop end”. The panel can then be zipped in