3CDesign

Hello again folks. I'm looking to upgrade from my old school Kenmore 52 "home" machine. I was lucky enough to find a sewing machine store within walking distance from my house. On my last trip there I found..... An old Nakajima 280L "Used" for $800.00 the machine has a brand new 3/4hp servo motor and table. And a new Yamata FY5318 with the same motor/table setup, this machine is $900.00. The owner says that both machines have the same "punching" power and are similar, except the Nakajima has a higher foot lift. I believe that they both are triple feed machines? I will be using the machine for canvas, cordura, webbing, bindings, with some leather work in the future. My G.F. wants me to assure her that this machine will fill all my needs, and won't need to be replaced as my small bag company grows. I'd tend to lean towards the 280L for the higher lift and Japanese build quality, the price is also a bonus. I have seen cheaper machines on C.L. for lower but I'd rather buy from a repair/dealer in my neighborhood who can drop the machine off at my door! What do you think? Thanks, Tony www.mustacheandmohawk.com A few of my bags

Hey folks my First Post! Im just getting into Softgoods and want to start sewing with leather. Currently I'm using a vintage Kenmore #52 with roller foot, v-90 thread, size 18 needles and a lot of patience. My first bag (4-5oz leather? Over 1/16th thick with a plastic embossed surface) turned out ok but.....anything over 3 layers of leather was causing problems.. duhh lol. Anyways I have a studio apartment and do not plan on sewing tooling leather or anything over 6 oz ( almost crazy for my patterns, types of bags with zippers and such). Mostly I plan on sewing 3-4oz leather and up to 24oz waxed canvas on a daily basis once school is over. My dining/living/kitchen will also serve as an sewing studio (small apartment). I should have a budget of around $400 and need a machine I can "put away" when needed. Recommend me a machine. Also I see A LOT of $300-$500 industrial sewing machines on the Portland C.L. would one of these Industrial S.S. machine be better than say a Sailrite knockoff for my purpose if room was not an issue? Thanks so much Tony