Seamstress? Seamster? - amp covers

[tubesornothing]

Hey all,

I am just finishing up another cab and I want to make my own covers from tolex.  Anyone ever done this? Handy with a sewing machine? Recommendations for equipment?

thanks
TON

[Shrapnel]

My wife has attempted to do one for me... the felt backed stuff is good enough for this. Depending on how you put it together (i.e. multi-colors, or making it out of five pieces, top, and four individual side pieces) you may have problems in the corners, especially with adding some trim to the seams. You can do it though. may only want to stick with two or three pieces.

[tubesornothing]

That's cool - I was just going to do a solid color - but you know, multi color would be neat.  Or racing stripes at least.

What kind of machine does she have/recommend?

[Boots Deville]

My wife has done a few for me as well.  One out of the vinyl I use for covering the cabs (similar to tolex) and a couple from the cordura type fabric that backpacks are made from.  I think the cordura covers are more durable, but don't look as classy.  You can sort see it in this picture under my little Stout head:
http://i38.tinypic.com/15wgnyq.jpg

I don't have a picture of the two-tone vinyl one.

My wife has a pretty good quality Bernina sewing machine, but it's not industrial strength.  If you have specific questions, I'd be glad to ask her.

[Shrapnel]

My wife's machine isn't anything special either. And much cheaper than a Bernina which can do everything for you on the high end models.

[stingray_65]

I suggest using a BALL tipped needle and heavy waxed button thread.

most any machine should have no difficulty sewing tolex / vinyl.

If you decide to sew piping in your seams, you'll need a zipper foot to get right next to the piping to keep it tight.

I've never sewn an amp cover before, but I have sewn marine grade vinyl for my chopper seat.

I've also sewn hundereds of garments.