Before Sewing
- Run a sample of each style before running an entire job to see how the material is going to perform and to make sure the patterns are correct.
- Calculate the same sewing time allowances for NYTEK® products as allowed for natural leather.
- Allow machine operators time to develop the techniques necessary to work efficiently with NYTEK® products, which are easier to work with than natural leather.
Similarities to Natural Leather
- NYTEK® absorbs moisture, resulting in expansion and greater elasticity.
- To achieve optimal results, use the same upholstery methods and techniques as used for leather. Most upholstery applications are a skilled craft rather than an exact science.
- To achieve optimal results, use the same upholstery methods and techniques as used for leather. Most upholstery applications are a skilled craft rather than an exact science.
- Like natural leathers, errors cannot be covered up during the upholstering process. Operators need time and patience to learn the techniques unique to our products.
- Proper prepping is critical to achieving the best results. Because of the smooth finish and weight of the cover, flaws and errors made during the prepping process may show by not filling out the cover properly or from telegraphing.
Machine Requirements
- Shops may use any brand name light industrial sewing machine that satisfies their production needs. Both walking foot machines, which prevent puckering, or flat foot machines produce excellent results.
- Each shop should determine how to set thread tension and foot pressure. For best results, keep as loose as possible.
Fine feed dogs provide the best results and do not damage the surface of the covers.
Reducing Drag
- Use a Teflon presser foot and laminate adhesive-backed Teflon film to the machine table and bed.
- Majilite can add backing material to our products. Contact us for recommendations and pricing.
Needle and Thread Sizes
- Use a Schmetz Nm 120, normal round point needle with a Nymo size D nylon thread. The sewing machine model determines the needle length.
- Thread should move freely through the eye of the needle and the needle should make a hole in the cover large enough for the thread to pass through without dragging and causing wrinkling, gathering or puckering. Needles with cutting points are not advised.
- Thread and needle size must match. Threads often are selected by size, color, and appearance. Nylon threads will perform better with NYTEK® Products than other thread fibers. Properly sized thread should fill the hole created by the needle.
- Needle holes in the cover are permanent, just like with natural leather.
Stitches Per Inch, Seam Allowance, and Notches
- Seven to eight (7 to 8) stitches per inch is adequate. Five to six (5 to 6) stitches per inch is common for decorative topstitching. The industry standard for seam allowances is three-eights to one-half (3/8 to 1/2) inches.
- Seams often need to be trimmed after being sewn for proper tailoring and to prevent telegraphing through the cover.
- Wetting the seams with hand steamers, spray water bottles or wet rags will help the two covers stretch and work together.
- Cut sufficient notches into the seam allowances to prevent puckering and other defects during sewing. Pattern notching tools work well for this and can be purchased through the Singer Sewing Company, Cutters Exchange, M.J. Foley Company, and other manufacturers.
SUMMARY
- Run a sample before cutting the entire job.
- Sewing time allowances will be similar to what is required for leather.
- Use brand name light industrial sewing machines.
- Utilize various techniques to control drag.
- Follow specified seam allowances and stitch requirements.
