Jaybogg

The 17 class has about 30 machines and trying to figure out the exact capabilities of a certain model in the class is my problem... My saddle stitch is good enough for most projects... I usually use veg tan from 8 to 11... I drill through 3 layers including the welt, and the thickness ranges between 1/4 and 3/8"... Being laid out and drilled by hand, there's just enough imperfection that it adds a rustic look to most projects, but I also make some very high end knives, where the fit and precision of a sewn stitch would be desirable... Thx for your input, much appreciated!!

I have researched everything I can find, including this forum, for the leather sewing capabilities of a singer 17-23... The singer manuals themselves are vague, at best. One singer reference says the machine is a leather machine... My specific question is "Will it sew up to 3/8" leather?" I make sheaths and have been hand sewing so far, but there is a certain amount of distinction a machine stitch gives that is hard to obtain hand sewing... My hope is that there is someone here that has actual experience with this model as there is so much variance between the various models... Thx in advance for any help you might be able to lend... JB Marsh

DIkman, Thanks for your input... I agree about hand stitching, especially on my bifold bison sheaths, the rustic look is good... The machine would sure come in handy though for diagonal sheaths, snakeskin inlays, etc... Right now, the time to hand sew a diagonal sheath isn't economically feasible... The inlays are doable, but small, tight stitch that a machine gives would look better in my opinion... Currently, I am drilling my stitch holes, and controlling the wandering on the back side from trying to keep the stacked leather horizontal is a challenge...

I appreciate everyone's input... I've about talked myself outa this deal... If there's anyone around Central texas who could use this machine, let me know and I'll put you in touch... Appears to be a good deal, has a table, foot pedal for control... Thx again for all the advice...

Cowboy Bob, Thank you sir for your prompt reply... The price on this machine is really good but with that said, it doesn't do me any good if I can't use it!! Sounds like it would be on the low side or below what I am looking for... Most my sheaths are ~8-9 oz veg tan, three layers thick with the welt... Guestimate the thickness to be a proud 3/8 at least... Thx again for the feedback... I am a didabled vet who does this as a form of occupational therapy since I cannot work, so money is definitely a consideration... really hope that this machine would fit the bill as it is listed at under 100 bucks... Oh well, guess I'll just keep lookin' and hopin'!!

Sorry if this question has been asked a gazillion times, but I couldn't find a thread with the answer, so here goes... Can a singer 31-15 sew leather, and if so, how thick? I am a hobbyist knifemaker who currently hand sews all my sheaths... Looking for something that will sew 1/4" to almost 1/2" leather and came across a 31-15 that I'd like to buy if it has these capabilities... Thx in advance for any info you may be able to give me... Thx, JB