Where to repair a BC pocket?

[divebrasil]

Hi, one of the trim weight pockets in my BC has a hole. It seems that the thread came loose. I am not sure if I take it to an clothing alterations place or if I need to take to a specialist. All that needs to be done it to sew it back together.
What do you think?

Thanks

 

[Marek K]

One of the seams just unraveled?

If you're handy and want to save some money, you might want to buy or order a sewing awl like this:
Speedy Stitcher Sewing Awl at REI.com
Get some water-resistant nylon thread and get to work. If it's just the thread that came loose, you'll have the holes already there; it'll be that much easier.

As long as the BC's bladder wasn't affected.

 

[divebrasil]

Great suggestion. I just got it at REI. Now, for thread, do you think fishing line could be a good option? Thanks

 

[Marek K]

I don't think fishing line will be easy to handle.

A few years ago I used one of these awls to replace some straps and buckles on some of our BCs (the BCs came with elastic straps with single-pull buckles, which i replaced with normal webbing straps with double-pull buckles). That entailed taking apart some seams in the BC at the front of the pockets, to anchor the straps.

I used heavy-duty waxed nylon thread -- much thicker than fishing line, and twisted so it handled better.

I would expect the awl to come with some thread like this, but a craft store would have it.

 

[Bubbletrubble]

Another option is to take it to a shoe repair place. Ask them nicely not to puncture the bladder.

 

[divebrasil]

I did buy the thread they have for sale at REI, they said it's waxed but couldn't explain exactly what it's made of and if it's saltwater proof.

 

[Marek K]

You mean this thread? Heavy Duty Thread For Awl at REI.com

Hard to tell what it's made from, but I'd guess nylon. Unlikely to be natural. The idea is that it shouldn't be a natural fiber, which would rot. Salt or fresh water wouldn't matter.

The way to make absolutely sure is to burn the end with a match. If it melts, it's nylon -- you won't have any doubt.

The thread I got was black. But this should work fine functionally.

 

[divebrasil]

Yes, it did burn just like a nylon would. I will give it a shot.
Thanks

 

[divebrasil]

Job done. Thanks for the advice. See picture.

 

[Marek K]

Looks good! Nice even and straight stitching, which usually takes some practice -- unless you just used the same thread holes. Who cares what color the thread is?

You might want to pull the stitching a bit tighter than it looks in the photo. Both the thread and the BC material are sturdy enough to take it.

I thought you mail-ordered the awl... but you must have gone to a local REI?