I use one without the motor to sew leather. I have a handcrank on the way, should be here in a couple of days. The motors on these things will not sew leather for very long but if you turn the wheel with your hand it will work fine. I use 69 bonded nylon thread with leather needles in mine. I own 8 that set in my room and when I want to ause one of them I put it in a base and use it. I also have two treadles in the liveing room. Get it all working right you will love it