Novalee

I haven't used waxed canvas, but it's cool stuff (and a bit pricey). I think the canvas paired with leather would look great. I've seen that look on several bags and liked it. Originally, I thought I wanted to work with some cork until I priced it. You might like SewGnar on YouTube. She does some stuff in waxed canvas, but uses a lot of cork as well.

@DieselTech - I've only used chrome tan for bag making so far. I mainly use linen with leather accents as lining. You might like patterns that call for drop in linings (or you can modify some patterns to accommodate drop in liners). I've done those and the ones where you flip or use what they call a "birthing hole." I sort of like the drop in method so you're not scrunching up the leather. Check out Simply Classic on YouTube. Chris has a lot of videos that show bag making from start to finish. I really enjoy her content and teaching (and she has nice supplies on her website). She has some nice patterns as well. Also, American Stitchers has some cool conceal carry patterns if you're into that sort of thing. If you end up finding a good source for chrome leather, let me know! I'm a newbie, so I'm looking to learn.

@AlZilla - I intend to call Bob at Toledo Industrial tomorrow, so I will ask about the CB3200 as well. I'm told he knows his stuff. Thanks for the suggestion!

Thank you! I really appreciate your input based on experience. First, by "granny," are you calling me old? LOL Just kidding, but it hurt a little. Seriously, I've only ever used chrome tan. I've never messed with veg tan. I'm relatively new to leather, so I'm still in the infancy stage. I say infancy stage because I believe we never should stop learning. Your work is fantastic! I love the creativity and bold colors. Well done!

@DieselTech - Thanks for weighing in! I appreciate it. If I'm not mistaken, the Cobra class 26 is similar to the Cowboy CB341 and Techsew 2750. I think I got that right. LOL They all are clones of the Juki 341, correct? So much to learn and remember. I was thinking the Cowboy would be a little lighter on the old wallet. I definitely want to include the table attachment. I don't think I could function well without it. Try your hand at bag making. I think you'll enjoy the challenge. I love it (until I can't complete my project because I don't have the right machine).

@AlZilla It is indeed marketed for bag making ... even leather bag making. I've watched a number of instructional videos (some by certified dealers) saying it can take Tex70 on top and bottom and up to an 18 needle. I think you're right about me just going over the tipping point. It's really too bad. It's a great machine for other applications.

@toxo Thanks very much for your helpful input. I definitely want to consider what I might do in the future. I don't see myself getting into saddles and such. At most, I might want to up the thickness of leather for more leather and bag/wallet options (i.e., 4-6 ounces). I do bags that stand now with the 2-3 ounce leather, but I use Decovil Heavy in certain places to achieve that look. I'm going to inquire about a Cowboy CB341 tomorrow (since I'm in the U.S.). It seems a solid option for my needs, but I'd love to hear if believe otherwise. Again, thanks for taking time to respond!

I failed to mention that I am not finding vendor's near me in central Florida other than Juki (about 2 hours south). That seems to complicate matters.

I can't thank you enough for your thoughtful reply. Trying to sort out ALL of the machines and what is or isn't necessary has proven maddening (plus feeling like I wasted a lot of money on the Juki). My Juki TL18 maxes out at Tex70, I'm told. I have no issues using heavier thread so long as it is appropriate for the leather weight. I thought this as well. My space is somewhat limited, but I can sort that out. I chose 2 oz due to the Juki's purported capabilities. Would this be the case with ... say ... 4 or 5 oz? I was leaning toward the 1541S due to Juki's reputation, support, and resale value. I then went down the rabbit hole of cylinder arms. They are impressive. Since this IS going to be expensive no matter what, and to put you on the spot (sorry!), which would you chose in my case? I'm an enthusiastic hobbyist who is trying to start a side business. I don't see myself branching out much beyond leather handbags of all shapes and sizes ... maybe some wallets. Professionally, I am an attorney and college professor, which likely accounts for the ridiculous amount of questioning (sorry again). Again, thank you! I've already cried once (Juki), so I'd prefer to reserve the waterworks for something unrelated to sewing machines. LOL

Hi, all. My sincere apologies if I am not posting to the correct forum. After spending weeks researching industrial machines, I’ve grown weary and confused. A few months ago, I purchased a Juki TL-18qvp with the understanding it could handle multiple layers of 2-3 ounce leather. I’m finding that not to be the case. In hindsight, while the Juki is an awesome machine, I should have purchased an industrial to suit my particular needs. My question is which machine is best suited for my needs but still provides some room to grow? At present, my focus is on leather handbags. I use 2-3 ounce leather, but I would like the option to up weight (not super thick). So far, I’ve only used tex70 weight thread (top and bottom). I thought I would purchase the Consew 206rb-5, or Juki 1541s, but I’ve since learned that a cylinder arm with flatbed attachment might be a better option. I’m looking at Techsew 2750, Techsew 2750 pro, Cowboy CB3200, and Cobra 26. Ideally, I’d prefer a machine that could handle the project from start to finish, meaning it has the ability to sew the thinner lining fabrics like linen as well. That might exclude some of the noted options. Budget is a concern as well and would prohibit me from buying a separate flatbed machine. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!!