Replacing a 1968 pattern MA1 knits

[Ian C]

Hiya all,

Having just purchased an old MA1, has anyone got any advice on having the cuffs etc replaced as I bought a new set at the same time as the jacket?

Thanks,
Ian

 

[Atticus Finch]

Hiya all,

Having just purchased an old MA1, has anyone got any advice on having the cuffs etc replaced as I bought a new set at the same time as the jacket?

Thanks,
Ian

I've never tried it, but I know several folks who have. According to them, it is a headache and is worth paying a professional to do. Over the years I've had to replace the knits on many Air Force jackets...MA-1s, L-2Bs and even one or two N jackets...but I've always followed my friends' advice. I take great care to purchase the proper replacement knits from MASH or e-bay, but I always let a pro do the installation.

But...if you still want to give it a try, here's a thread on another forum where someone just replaced the knits on his L-2A. He's a great guy. If you PM him I'm sure he'd share his thoughts.

http://www.vintageleatherjackets.org/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=9200

AF

 

[kampkatz]

I have had the same experience with cuff replacement as has Atticus. After trying it once, I found that it is well worth the price to have a seamstress do it right the first time.

 

[deanglen]

My experience is that the cuffs are far and away the easiest of the knits to replace. My work has been done entirely by hand. I have not learned how to use a sewing machine, so I work with needle and thread and this means working at comparatively, a snail's pace. In the end, though, it worked fine for my purposes. I know a guy who could be considered a pro, over at the VLJ, who would be an excellent choice for you to get it done. Barring attempting it by yourself, which I wouldn't rule out! I love a challenge! PM me and I'll see what I could do.




dean

 

[dakotanorth]

Granted their prices are steep, but if you're looking for authentic parts, check here:
http://www.mash-japan.co.jp/

 

[Ian C]

Hiya all,

Thanks for your help and advice. There's no way I'd attempt this myself and I've managed to secure some knits. I've also got a friend who makes shirts etc but I wanted to get as much background as possible first as I wanted to know if there were any pitfalls.
I'll let you know how I get on...
Regards,
Ian