JackBarba

I recently inherited a Kenmore e6354 sewing machine that needs some TLC and parts (foot pedal). It was my grandmothers and I would love to use it if the cost (maintenance+parts) justifies the value of the machine. The first quote I received was just under ~$200 for parts and repair/tuning. I noticed Tandy is selling a Singer 4452 that can also be found on Amazon for $207.00. I'm trying to decide whether I should invest in the older machine or buy a new one. I plan to use a machine to sew leather bags and heavy canvas/denim bags. Would either of these work to sew through two pieces of ~6oz leather? Thank you all in advance for the help! Jack

Hi everyone! Long time lurker, first time poster (or so I thought -- apparently 7 total posts) I was asked to make a black belt, and bought a black veg tan strap from Tandy. I rubbed some dubbin on it (mink oil/beeswax mixture) and the black still rubs off a bit. Can I apply Tan Kote on top of the dubbin? Thank you in advance! Jack

Thanks again Oldhat! Some parts of the flesh side of this leather I'm using are quite nice and smooth, while other sections are a bit rougher. I wasn't planning on lining it, as I kind of like the look of the raw flesh side interior. What are some of the benefits of lining bags? Aesthetics and protection I would think? Thanks so much for the responses. I'll post some pictures of the project so far. I still plan to add handles, some magnets to keep it shut. and decorative panels on both sides with 1) a monogram & 2) inlaid leather design.

Hey oldhat! Thank you so much for your reply. I ended up glueing the seams and doing an 8 SPI saddle stitch along the sides. It took me so long. I took your advice and used a test piece to try out my homemade dubbin. I applied it liberally to the grain side, but when applying it to the flesh side, it absorbed very quickly and I had a hard time spreading it evenly. I gave up after a while and simply rubbed my bar of beeswax against the flesh side to waterproof it. Seemed like a good idea at the time I'll post pictures when it is complete. I'm really happy so far with how it is turning out!

I bought a "finished double shoulder 5oz" [Tandy #9048-60] to make my wife a tote bag, and am trying not to mess up. I have two questions: 1) Should I glue the seams? I have Barge that I've used for wallets, but I'm afraid I won't be able to line it all up correctly. If I'm going to hand stitch it, will the glue make it considerably stronger? Thoughts? 2) If the product says finished, should I add some finish to protect it further? I just made some homemade dubbin with olive oil, almond oil, vitamin e oil and beeswax. If I do add the dubbin, how long do I have to wait? How much should I apply? Thank you so much for the assistance. I just started working with leather less than a week ago, and there are SO many choices/questions.