What Sewing Machine do I need for Boat Upholstery & Covers?

Can I use my domestic sewing machine or do I need an industrial sewing machine? - This is one of the most common questions we get...

If you're planning to upholster your boat seats, start a business doing boat upholstery & Covers, make a bimini, or make yourself a snug-fitting boat cover, using the right sewing machine can save you hours of frustration — and produce results that last. In this post, you’ll learn exactly what type of machine you need and why it's essential for marine sewing projects. One of the most common questions I get asked is "Can I use my domestic sewing machine to make boat upholstery or covers?"

Why a Walking Foot Industrial Sewing Machine Is Essential and a Domestic Machine wont do!

1. Power for Thick Layers and Tough Fabric

Marine projects often involve:

• Vinyl

• Marine canvas (like Sunbrella)

• Foam-backed fabric

• Zippers and binding

  
  

  These materials are thick, stiff, and often layered. A walking foot machine has a powerful motor and feed system designed for exactly this kind of work.

2. The Walking Foot Makes the Difference

Unlike a regular sewing machine that uses only a feed dog, a walking foot machine has:

• A bottom feed dog

• Sometimes a needle feed, but this is not essential

• A top walking foot that moves in sync with the other two

  Result: All layers feed evenly — no bunching, slipping, or uneven stitches.

3. Handles Heavy Thread with Ease

Marine sewing often requires:

• UV-resistant polyester thread (V-92 or V-138)

• Strong seams to withstand wind, salt, and sun

Home machines can’t handle these thread weights. Industrial walking foot machines are built for them.

4. Reliability and Speed

These machines are built for long hours of use in upholstery shops. You can rely on consistent, strong stitching even on full-day projects. They’re also easy to maintain and repair, which saves money long-term.

In summary

What to Look For When Buying:

• ✅ Servo motor (quiet, adjustable speed)

• ✅ Reverse stitch lever (for securing seams) some are automatic

• ✅ High presser foot lift (for thick layers)

• ✅ Compatibility with V92 thread or higher

• ✅ Table-mounted setup for stability

What to Avoid:

• ❌ Domestic machines (even heavy-duty ones)

• ❌ Machines without a walking foot

• ❌ Lightweight portable machines (they bounce, skip, and can’t feed heavy fabric well)

Bonus Tip: What Else You’ll Need

• UV-resistant thread (V92 or V138 polyester)

• Size 18–22 needles (for heavy thread)

• Heavy-duty bobbins, these are larger on an industrial machine

• Edge binding feet, piping feet and zipper feet

• A good work table with space to manoeuver large covers

A walking foot industrial sewing machine is an investment — but if you're serious about DIY boat projects or starting a marine upholstery & covers business, it's the most important tool you can buy. It turns frustrating fabric battles into smooth, professional-level stitching that stands up to wind, water, and wear.

You can buy a basic walking foot sewing machine from around £750 upwards.