Who has made their own roof tents...

[Metal Twister]

I just picked up a nice used Singer 111w155 single stitch sewing machine to do the roof tent on my trailer as well as a few other projects. Anybody sewing their own tents? Any advice to a beginner? I have sewen in the past so I know how to do it. But Ive never tackled a tent sized project. Im ready and anxious to get started... I think? any do's? any Dont's? :Wow1:

 

[Extreme Steel]

I'll need a canvas cover for my trailer if you can do? need something with leather stitching on all corners so it won't tear.:costumed-smiley-007

 

[Metal Twister]

Let me get some stitch time in, Then we can talk... You might want to see what the tent looks like first.

 

[Airborne Lee]

I cannot believe you posted this thread. I was working on the following to post today.... Maybe we can post our progress... Today I am leaning on buying a tent and cutting out the bottom to modify to fit my fold out frame.


Ready to build my own RTT. I have the design figured out. Manufacturing is rather easy for me but I have some doubt on a few details.

My issues are the main hinges for the floor and should I buy a tent to modify or make my own tent.

There are several methods and There is no doubt that I can sew my tent but the sealing the seams worry me. On the other hand buying a tent to modify will likely mean I get a lesser quality.

I also am torn on the material for the floor. metal or wood and what thickness. ??

 

[compactcamping]

I've been "playing" with making tents, it's a big undertaking. I find the challenge of this kind of project fun and rewards. It's great to actually get something the way you want it. One warning, if your primary motivation is saving money, IMHO you'll come out ahead in the end just purchasing one.

Do you have drawings/sketches of your design yet?

Here is a thread to check out on a tent unit I designed, DIY Trailer / Roof Top Tent

 

[Metal Twister]

Very nice tent and idea. Personally I dont think I even need a fold out tent. Its just me, and sometimes the dog so I was thinking just a pop up type of tent big enough for two. Something super basic and simple. Just enough to keep the wind rain and dew off the sleeping bags. No final design yet.

 

[compactcamping]

If you're thinking basic, I've seen a few folks do a simple platform with a dome tent. Very cost effective, but you wouldn't get to use your new sewing machine Check out Behold, The Ghetto RTT for an example.

 

[Airborne Lee]

It is not so much the sewing as it is the handling of the mass of material and getting the design right. My real fear is 6 foot plus straight lines and sealing the seams.

Finding the right cabin tent in the right shape, even if it is two or three feet too big can be cut down and tailored to fit (I think) than patterning a new design.

 

[compactcamping]

Right, you need a big table when sewing something a large as a tent. It does take some practice to get nice straight seams. Sealing seams is no big deal, most canvas will self-heal after getting them wet. With polyesters / nylons you might have to use seam sealer. Just make sure they are all pointing downhill. Get the pattern / design right can be tricky.

 

[Metal Twister]

Im liking the Ghetto Idea... Maybe add an awning or two, a dew cover and be sure to Scotchguard waterproof it. Hummmmm:ylsmoke:

 

[Metal Twister]

Im liking the Ghetto Idea... Maybe add an awning or two, a dew cover and be sure to Scotchguard waterproof it. Hummmmm:ylsmoke:

 

[compactcamping]

There is more than one way to skin a ... or sleep on top of your vehicle.