MannyV
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Senior Member
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Posts: 1,055
DIY Neoprene Inspired by some posts here
May 19, 2018
After reading some posts here, I got some inspiration to make my own DIY neoprene covers.
1. Material used was neoprene with forest camo purchased from this ebay seller. https://www.ebay.ca/itm/142778164304 - Two sheets for Canadian 13$
2. Thread - the extra strong one meant for tapestry from walmart - Canadian 3$
3. Tapestry needle from walmart. - Canadian 2$
4. Alene fabric glue from walmart Canadian 4$
Two sheets were sufficient for makings lens covers for
Sigma 100-400mm Canon mount
Panasonic 100-400mm
Olympus 12-40mm F2.8 Pro
Panasonic 7-14mm
Canon EF-S 18-55mm STM (that came with my SL2
Canon EF-S 10-18mm STM
After measuring and cutting, the most interesting part - sewing. Initially I wanted to avoid sewing and just use glue. After much deliberating, I chose to opt for sewing, and fabric glue for plugging the holes created in neoprene during sewing. In future, I will skip the glue part. And honestly I do not think using only glue without sewing will work as the seams experience fair bit of tugging when putting them on the lens. Unless one chooses a loose fit.I would recommend using the tapestry extra strong thread, and tapestry needle. Sewing is worth the effort and will likely last a long time before they give way. Sewing through neoprene takes some time. If one has done basic sewing in the past, it should not be difficult. I mean don't underestimate the effort, yet do not have much apprehension. It is doable. Patience and a bit more strength goes a long way.
For the first lens, I used a overlap of neoprene seam stitch. I don't know the correct sewing term. However you will understand what I am saying by looking at the hood picture stitch. It is a bit hard this way as you have to sew through two layers of neoprene. For subsequent lenses, I stitch without any overlap of the neoprene. Lets see which one last longer or whether it matters at all. Since my hand sewing skills are almost none, I feel the overlap seam would be a better choice for future lenses.
End results - photos of my handiwork.
Canon Gear
Micro 4/3rd gear