adding knee,elbow pads

[nz676]

just got my new suit but didn't realize there was no reinforcement for elbows and knees just loading pad it did come with to large squares of 3mm neoprene not sure what there for maybe patches?which is the best way to add some reinforcement do i need to stitch as im no seamstress or should i try gluing some pads on ideas?as were i dive there are tons of barnacles and snags i do have a few under vest's at my disposal so im thinking to chop them up for some elbow knee pads.

 

[Lazuli]

If you use a decent contact adhesive (not wetsuit repair glue), and properly shape the reinforcement patches, you may not need stitching at all. In fact stitching, if done badly, could really balls up a new suit and introduce weak points that stress or tear at the panels of the suit if the wrong thread or nylon is used. Shape the reinforcement patches etc, then clean surfaces with some form of thinner or alcohol compatible with nylon, rubber, latex etc (not turps or white spirit), then glue both sides to be adhered, wait for 5mins, then bond. It should be bombproof if done well and carefully. Try to choose an adhesive that is flexible when dry such as one of the industrial Bostik products. If you find a local wetsuit maker they may let you have a drop free of charge!
Cheers
Laz

 

[nz676]

cheers i think i got it all sorted