THE Buckeyes

So I actually ended up finding a Seiko STH-8BLD with table and clutch motor for $350 off of craigslist. I thought this was a good deal considering the shop I went to had a new one with 3/4 servo for $1,500 +tax. The only problem he said was the thread was breaking and he didn't have time to put into. So I figured that even if it needed a repair, it would put me in a good spot. $350 for the machine + $150 new motor + $200 misc labor and material costs= $700. Anyone have experience with the Seiko? I will say for anyone searching Craigslist, it can be tricky because you don't know what the seller is listing it as. You could have someone list a perfectly good leather machine as just a sewing machine and never see it depending on what your search keywords were.

Yea and I could get the flatbed attachment as well. But to one of the previous point by George, do I want to deal with changing the setup for the lighter work when needed.

I went to Ohio State but live in CT now unfortunately lol. Otherwise I would have already picked up a Cowboy.I was really interested in the Cowboy 227R over the 3200 thinking it would handle the lighter work but still do work on a little over 3/8" of some denser leather. Sticker price on that online is $1,595 + shipping though (Are these online prices accurate?). I also found an older 206 at a local sewing machine store with a clutch motor for $900. $139 to add a servo and I would be able to have it locally serviced and tuned up. They are really nice people and will teach me how to use it as well. My indecision is around the ability to grow with the machine. The flatbed of the 206 would seem to limit me once I get into bags and other odd shapes. But if the 227 is going to be too powerful for thinner materials, then I'll need to downgrade anyways. If I can also save $800-$900 and still get a decent machine in the 206 with local service and help....that's another consideration.

The used machine market is slim pickings around me. I have two options and don't know if either are a good deal: 1. Consew 206RB-1 with industrial clutch motor. Seems to be in good shape and looks clean, seller says its In working order for me. Seemed to be confident about the status of the machine as well. Asking $750. 2 hour drive and I would possibly have to rent a larger vehicle to pick it up. 2. An older model Artisan 2618 cylinder arm machine with a clutch motor. Also seems clean. Seller said bobbin thread keeps breaking. Seller Doesn't seem as knowledgable about the machine, 6.5 hour drive for me, he was asking $1,200 and dropped to $1,000. Right now I am making things like portfolios, belts, key chains, and wallets. For my belts, the thickest I am using is a 12 oz Wickett harness leather. If you had to pick a machine. Which would it be and why?

The used machine market is slim pickings around me. I have two options and don't know if either are a good deal: 1. Consew 206RB-1 with industrial clutch motor. Seems to be in good shape and looks clean, seller says its In working order for me. Seemed to be confident about the status of the machine as well. Asking $750. 2 hour drive and I would possibly have to rent a larger vehicle to pick it up. 2. An older model Artisan 2618 cylinder arm machine with a clutch motor. Also seems clean. Seller said bobbin thread keeps breaking. Seller Doesn't seem as knowledgable about the machine, 6.5 hour drive for me, he was asking $1,200 and dropped to $1,000. Right now I am making things like portfolios, belts, key chains, and wallets. For my belts, the thickest I am using is a 12 oz Wickett harness leather. If you had to pick a machine. Which would it be and why?

Thank you, Art. I think I am looking for both options of knives then. So angled edges for edge skiving and straight edge for overall paring (as you mentioned for belt ends) and more central parts of the leather?

Comparing to Lisa Sorrell's knives. How do these Blanchard's compare? http://www.ebay.com/ulk/itm/231759553507 Or these... http://www.ebay.com/ulk/itm/231492677621 Are they sharpened similiar to a round knife on a whetstone and stripped for maintenance?

Thanks Art. I'll take a look at all of those. It's challenging not having any reference point as to feel and balance with all these knives.

In search of a round knife mainly for skiving. I would would prefer something on the smaller side. Wanted to see what was available before I went and purchased new or from Bruce Johnson. Thanks.