Originally Posted by
Iceblossom
If the basting stitch passes whatever tug tests you do and is what you want, then sure. Sometimes you have to use huge stitches on upholstery and canvas.
You are also using an appropriate needle? Both in size and maybe type if you still aren't getting quite the stitch you want from a universal type, look at Denim or Topstitch needles, probably size 16 or so.
How do I determine correct needle size? I''ll probably need to sew thru 4 layers of sunbrella at most and for only short bursts. Most other runs will be two layers.