I am just about at my wits end with my Singer 19 51, it won't sew soft leathers, does fine for everything else, but doesn't like suede. I have been told that Juki makes one of the best machines, but what model?? should I be looking for a "chainstitch" or "lockstitch" machine? And where might I find a used one, I'm on a very tight budget and can't afford a new machine. There are soo many different brands and models on the market it is difficult to figure out what is going to be my best option. Both of the leatherworkers that I have come in contact with use Juki machines and swear by them but I haven't been able to get back in touch with them to ask their opinions on this. I am in the Northern virginia area so if there is some place close that would be a great help. I'm sure there are a lot of used machines out there, just where to find one??
Thanks in advance for anyone's input. I am primarily sewing four to five layers of 1.5 to 2 oz leather glued up to make guitar straps and such.