Camperback windows

BRAZO · Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 3:32 pm Post subject: Camperback windows

We are in the process of creating our own camperback for our CD22. We now have the canvas "wrapped" around the cockpit and all snapped/zippered in. The next step is to cut and install the screens/windows.

Question: How are your windows installed on your camperback? Are they zippered into the canvas? Are they Velcro'd on? Do they roll up to the top or do they roll down? Any "different" ideas that you used when you had your camperback done?

I have some ideas on how to accomplish the task, but thought I'd see if others had some good ideas.

Thanks for your help.

JamesTXSD · Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 3:43 pm Post subject:

Hi Robert,

Our camperback has the eisenglass windows/screens stitched in (in place of the Sunbrella). The windows are to the inside, the screen on the outside. King put heavy duty zippers in the eisenglass in a large U shape so we can unzip and roll up the window portion to allow airflow. We are very pleased with the design and execution.

Hope that helps.

Best wishes,
Jim B.

Doryman · Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 5:26 pm Post subject:

I wanted to have my panels made the same way Jim describes but Les at EQ convinced me I would be better off with screen panels that zip in in place of the eisinglass panels. I can't recall the arguments offhand but I followed his advice and have been happy with the results.

Jim, I seem to recall that somewhere you made reference to a wax or something similar that you used on your snaps -- can you post that info again, please?

Thanks,
Warren

thataway · Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 6:34 pm Post subject:

Generally it is easier to sew the clear vinyl window into the Sunbrella, with the paper on the outside (both sides actaully works better). Double stitch parallel rows, Then cut out the fabric--hot knife works well, but it can be trickey with the vinyl. Using sissors you have to either tuck back or binding tape to keep the edge from fraying. The window will be on the inside of the Sunbrella cover. This is much easier than the "U" or other ways. Then you put in the zippers and roll up the entire panel, and hold up with 3/4" Sunbrella straps doubled, with "lift the dot" fasteners--can use snaps also.

I find that Vinyl is much tricker to sew than the Sunbrella. The industrial machines are also easier to use with the thicker viny and if you turn under several layers.

There is a article in DIY on replacing windows which gives some good tips. There are also some good books on building Bimini's and windows.
http://www2.sailrite.com/PDF/Articles/DIY%20Article%20Replacing%20Window%20in%20Dodger.pdf

What sewing machine are you using? Great that you are doing your own canvas work!

BRAZO · Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 7:17 pm Post subject:

JamesTXSD · Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 7:19 pm Post subject:

thataway · Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 10:39 pm Post subject:

The old machines work well. I have a brother heavy duty portable, and we also have an old kenmore. I also used a treddle machine a number of times--as well as my friends industeral Con sew and Pfaff.

The reason for the sewing the clear vinyl on the Sunbrella, is that it keeps the cloth tight, and the window smooth--that avoids any wrinkles when you are finished.

Sounds like you doing it correctly. One of the biggest issues is getting the correct needles and threads; Sail Rite has them.