fenceguy1984

Would anyone be willing to post some close up photos of the stitching (front and back please) they're getting with a properly tuned machine, Cowboy 3200, 4500 ect, others electrics, tippmann boss, needle / awl machines? Thanks!

Hi everyone, new to the forums here but have been doing leather work for 3-4 years now. Mainly heavy/thick items like sheaths, holsters and other odds and ends. Over the past year I've had much interest in some leather cases I make and I honestly can't keep up with the demand while hand stitching and hand cutting everything. I'm planning to get some clicker dies made and using my shop press to help speed up cutting. For sewing, I'm going through 4 layers of 7/8 OZ so just about 1/2 inch. Hand sewing is very beautiful and strong but It simply takes me too long, maybe an hour per piece now that I've gotten pretty good at it and use my drill press to pilot the holes. Questions for you guys: What sewing machine would you recommend that gives a good looking stitch? I've been having the typical tippmann boss vs power machine debate myself. Leaning towards a powered machine. In your experience does something like a Cowboy 3200 or similar machines give a nice clean stitch? How does it compare to hand sewing? How does the Tippmann Boss compare to these in terms of stitch quality? I'm planning to call the shop in Toledo, OH to get their ideas and see what used machines are in stock. Since I live close by I may road trip there one day soon. Thanks everyone! Any tips would be much appreciated! Jon