What thread to use on a thin nylon shell?

Friend has a free jacket that has several years. Want to fix it up but not sure what is appropriate to use on a thin nylon shell. Advice?

36 points Sassypriscilla

I used a Gear Aid patch because I didn’t want to risk poking more holes in mine.

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7 points Signal_Chest_4312

This is perfect. Thank you!

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2 points graphitinia

Seconding this advice. I did the same with a nylon down jacket 2 years ago and the mend is going strong.

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16 points QuietVariety6089

Gear patch with adesive or tenacious tape - this fabric doesn't do well with needle/thread :(

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3 points Signal_Chest_4312

This seems to be the consensus. Glad I asked!

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8 points ouro-the-zed

I’ve patched a a down nylon puffer jacket before with needle and thread, and the act of drawing the needle/thread through the nylon dragged out more of the stuffing and left holes. I think, in this case, a sticky gear patch may be best. I’ve seen folks use duct tape for that purpose, if you don’t want to buy a special patch.

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7 points disAgreeable_Things

No thread. Tenacious tape is the hero in this story.

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3 points TheRedBaron11

I would sandwich the hole on the front and back with patch fabric that can handle a thread. It would be an obvious patch. Sewing that kind of material shut without patch fabric doesn't seem like it would work, but I have no clue. I'm a function over form guy and I like visible patches more than trusting thin nylon fabric not to continue ripping

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2 points GreenBook1978

Patch it with fabric

Start on the underside of the tear...

if you have cotton twill or broad cloth use that but nothing to heavy or it will stress the remaining fabric

If you have tailor's wax use it to wax the thread to make it stronger

Stitch the patch in place making sure it is slightly larger than the tear

Then sew the tear itself shut

Then sew a patch on top

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