dikman

As Bruce said, a rubber mallet is probably the worst thing you could use as regards stamping efficiency. There are also many posts on here about people making their own.

I agree, very nice indeed.

Machinery's Handbook was a must have before the 'net, I still have one, a lovely little book. It's amazing how much information was crammed into a "small" book.

Looks good. What width did you make it?

In that case you're smarter than me.

You're not the first one to make that mistake and you won't be the last!! I've come close to doing it....

I doubt if any of the machines generally used for things like notebooks will be much different in how the reverse side stitching looks as they all operate the same. If you want the best looking stitches and the reverse-side is a concern then hand-stitching is the best option.

Quite a remarkable job! Just looking at it I can visualise the amount of work that went into it! One thing, though, the circular piece on the back where the four straps come into it looks like you've sewn across the straps. I made a pair of suspenders from leather and stitched across the yoke at the back and eventually the straps tore through at the stitching.

Very nice stitch lines!

A quick search shows it is a domestic zig-zag machine, also sold as Gertz, Aldens and Bamberger (may be more names?). I found a manual but it's on etsy and isn't free.

Very impressive work, that thing looks bulletproof!

Careful, buying old sewing machines can become addictive!! Been there, done that, fortunately I managed to wean myself off it - but I still keep looking.

There have been a few posts on here from members making their own reducers, it can be as simple as a shaft, two pulleys, two bearings and a frame to mount it on (can be wood or steel).

Looks good, very neat work.

Well done, nice restoration and a serious bit of modding!