That’s right guys, this is a nail gun for fabric that can punch right through eight layers of heavy canvas. Use this machine to build your own dodgers, biminis, and even sails. Or, ahem, cushions and curtains. Matt Grant of Sailrite put one of their semi-industrial sewing machines through its paces for our camera at Strictly Sail Pacific, and I actually learned a thing or two. Like why you want a walking foot or zigzag stitching capability.

Sailrite is at most of the sailboat shows demoing their sewing machines, and they also have an outstanding catalog of marine and outdoor fabrics and all the supplies you need for canvas work. They have a range of kits from sails to winch covers. And if you’re not confident in your sewing skills, you can get their instructions, books, and videos to get you over the hump.

I’ve had a pretty favorable impression of Sailrite, largely shaped by their friendly presence at boatshows and outstanding catalog, so I did a little searching online to see what other people think of them. I was pleased to discover that most customers have had great experiences with their products and service. And the prices of their portable Ultrafeed machines are quite reasonable, especially considering that they are high quality tools that will give you many years of service.

website: www.sailrite.com