TM 10-1670-287-23&P 0015 00   0015 00-4 Table 2.  Stitching and Restitching Specifications - continued COMPONENT RECOMMENDED SEWING MACHINE (Code Symbol) STITCHES PER INCH THREAD SIZE Panel, Cotton Cloth LD, MD 7 to 11 E Ribs LD, MD 7 to 11 E Binding Tape LD, MD 7 to 11 E Slider Stop Reinforcement LD, MD, BT 7 to 11/42 E Line, Suspension BT, ZZ 42 E Line, Control BT, ZZ 42 E Panel, Top/Bottom LD, MD 7 to 11 E Crossports D 7 to 11 E Slider LD, MD 7 to 11 E Binding Tape LD, MD 7 to 11 E Cloth, Nylon, Type I DN, LD 7 to 11 A/E Suspension Line Attaching Loop DBL BT Pre-set E Risers (re-stitch as req’d) LD, ZZ, BT 7 to 11/42 E Keeper, Guide Ring BT, ZZ 42 E Tape, Trim Tab LD, BT 7 to 11/42 E Channel, Release Cable LD, MD 7 to 11 E Keeper, Toggle LD, BT 7 to 11/42 E Cover, Control Line LD, MD 7 to 11 E Tape, Hook and Pile LD, MD 7 to 11 E 2.    Other parachute items.  Stitching and re-stitching on other parachute items constructed from cloth, canvas, and webbing should be accomplished with thread that matches the color of the original stitching, when possible.  All straight stitching should be locked by backstitching at least ½-inch.  Re- stitching should be locked by overstitching each end of the stitch formation by ½-inch.  Zig-zag stitching does not require locking; however, zig-zag re-stitching should extend at least ¼-inch into undamaged stitching at each end, when possible.  Re-stitching should be made directly over the original stitching; follow the original stitch pattern as closely as possible. DARNING (Refer to Tables 1 and 2).  Darning is a sewing procedure used to repair limited size holes, rips, and tears.  A darning repair may be made either by hand or by sewing machine, depending upon the method preferred and the availability of equipment.  However, a darning machine should be used to darn small holes and tears where fabric is missing.  A darning repair will be preformed using the following procedures, as appropriate: 1.    Machine darning.  Proceed as follows: a.    Using an authorized marking aid of contrasting color, mark a square around the damaged area and ensure the marking is at least ¼-inch back from each edge of the damaged area. b.    Darn the damaged area by sewing the material in a back and forth manner, using size A or E nylon thread.