cercyonis

Hey, thanks for the examples. I don't want to purchase another presser foot at the moment, because they are super-duper expensive! So I'll try some of these methods. The thing is, I've read somewhere that it isn't a good idea to sew straight across the strap. It made sense to me because sewing pokes holes in the leather, which seems to make sort of a perforation across the strap. I figured that's why I've seen a lot of horse-tack straps sewn with a fish-like shape. Does this make sense or does it sound like a buncha baloney? I'm here to learn.

Nope, all the presser feet I have extend out in front of the needle area. Time to spend more clams!

Thank you for the replies. I received a few different presser feet with the machine, so I'll dig and see if any fit the bill.

I'm not much of a seamstress, so why am I trying to learn the basics of sewing on an Artisan 3000 with leather and biothane? To drive myself nuts, I guess. I have done a general search of the Web and this site, but can't find anything specifically about how to get the stitches close to buckles. The presser foot gets in the way. If I lift the presser foot, I get weird stitches. What's the trick? ~Jennifer

Thanks for the replies. I may wait on this since it has those drawbacks and is kind of a long drive.

I am so new to this that I'm almost too scared to post. I would like to sew horse tack -- everything but saddles. I found a lightly used GA5-1 for sale for $800 about 2.5 hours away. I'm at least smart enough to know that I should seek advice before making such an investment. Here is a picture of the machine: Here is what the seller tells me about it: "The machine was bought at Bogle Greenwell in Dallas. It is an import but modeled after the adler 205. Has a 1/2 horsepower motor. Have had it for 6 years but has been used very little because I retired. Its a single needle, lockstitch, has a lift of 15/32", 11" arm. Should work on most materials you want to sew Was being used on saddle repairs and custom leather work." 110 clutch motor (1/2 HP) has a switch to change to 220 (I'm not completely sure how this is accomplished) Would this be a good investment for a total beginner? Like most folks, I don't have a huge budget and this is about as expensive as I could go. I understand that this doesn't have reverse and that a clutch might be a bit tricky at first. I'd appreciate any time y'all can take to give me advice. Thank you. ~Jennifer