Techsew Ron

Since the short arm version of the 441 clone doesn't have a built in bobbin winder like its long armed brother, we just install a bobbin winder for shuttle bobbins on the table. It's just as effective and you can wind bobbins while you're sewing. Ron

These cut out table tops are available and are the best option for mid-range machines as they provide plenty of work area, table area and can hold a flatbed attachment around the cylinder arm of the machine. Heigh is adjustable as well. Our cylinder bed machines (except for Techsew 5100 or 4100) use this reinforced U-table. Ron

$300 sounds almost too good to be true. Is that including table and servo motor? Make sure it works before purchasing - take some samples over and don't give the guy a penny until you like what you see and are comfortable with the machine. We sell a 153 clone with reverse and it's a very user friendly machine so I don't think it'll be too complicated for you to use as a beginner. A servo motor definitely helps when starting out so you can control the sewing speed. Ron

You need a walking foot machine with a 3/8" sewing capacity to sew 2 layers of 7-8oz leather. Ron

It may be unpopular opinion but I'm going to go ahead and say you don't need a 441 clone to sew wallets. We have many customers using flatbed or cylinder walking foot machines with 3/8" sewing capacity for sewing wallets, phone cases, belts, notebook covers and more. In our experience 3/8" is enough for most kinds of general leather work. This kind of machine will use up to a #24 needle and #210 thread. Also I would not pursue the purchase of a machine directly from an overseas supplier...warranty and tech support are extremely important and you'll breath a lot easier making this investment knowing that if something goes wrong you'll have a dealer to back you up. Cheers, Ron

Anything you can sew with the Tippman can be sewn with your Toro (assuming you have a 441 clone). You don't really need both.

Nice video. good work !

CustomDoug, Yes they both use Singer 111W style presser feet. Ron

CustomDoug, Both machines are appropriate for sewing handbags, purses, wallets, jackets, vests, belts, upholstery etc... The 2603 has a smaller diameter cylinder arm, both have the same cylinder length. Maximum thread size of the 2700 is 210, on the 2603 you can use up to 138. 2700 comes with SmartServo motor, 2603 comes with clutch motor with option to upgrade to servo. Both machines have about the same sewing thickness capacity. 2700 also has safety clutch, 2603 does not. Feel free to give me a call if you have any other questions. Thanks, Ron

call around, see who will give you the best deal and who actually has the machine in stock! Ron

If you want a machine that can sew thin (down to 6oz) all the way up to thick (7/8" thick) you'll need a 441 clone. These are capable of sewing a very wide range of applications. Otherwise you can use a flatbed or cylinder walking foot machine with a 3/8" sewing capacity for belts, wallets, notebook covers etc....this covers most general leather work but nothing exceeding 3/8". Feel free to give me a call if you need some more advice! Cheers, Ron

Hi Kirsten, we have limited office hours today but we'll be back tomorrow morning if you'd like to discuss. Basically the Techsew 3650HD is our upgraded version of the GA5-1R, we added a roller guide, locking casters and the machine is a different color now. It is the perfect machine for tack work. I will return your call first thing in the morning. Thanks, Ron

good deals! enjoy your new machines. Ron

these are awesome Jay. getting pretty good with that machine !

Funny enough, we've heard of a few customers naming their new machines. Frank is one that has come up a few times.

good eye. this a drop feed walking foot (alternating presser feet + feed dog but no needle feed). we have one just like it. with practice anyone can sew this precisely. Ron

No problem!

Good machine for sewing belts, wallets, notebook covers, leather garments and more. You can use up to #210 thread and up to #24 needles, maximum sewing capacity is about 3/8". Uses very common parts that will be easy to find if you need replacements. The quality is fine, just make sure whoever you purchase from will set up the machine for you and it'll be ready to sew when you receive it. Also make sure to get a servo motor on it if you're a beginner. Ron

The price on that Juki 562 is ok, but keep in mind if you're buying used from a previous owner you may need to pay to have the machine serviced and you'll need to purchase a servo motor if you want to control your stitching speed. This could add up to $300 to your purchase price. Also the 562 is not a large bobbin machine, meaning you'll have trouble sewing with large thread sizes because the bobbin thread will run out quickly. A note on machines you'll find on ebay - only buy if it's from a reputable dealer who will prepare the machine for you before shipping it. Do not by any means purchase something listed as "industrial strength". Essentially what you're looking for is a flatbed, walking foot machine capable of sewing up to 3/8" thickness, using #138 or #210 thread, needle sizes up to #24, with a servo motor. You should be able to find all this for around $900 plus shipping or $1000 to $1500 for a new one. A new machine will usually include a warranty and most importantly free tech support so you'll be covered for as long as you own it. Good luck with your search. Ron

Great suggestions on those books! Might even buy a couple for myself.. Bluehorse, I'd be happy to answer any machinery questions you may have. Ron

can't think of a clever quote...but the Amish sure are creative people! Ron

Great tips ! Ron

We realize a lot of our customers are beginners so we provide instructional videos, user manuals, and lots of general pointers and advice. Your dealer should be able to help you get going. If you've never even used a sewing machine before you should watch as many videos as you can on learning how to sew with a simple home sewing machine, just to pick up the basics. Lots of what you see on a home sewing machine will translate to an industrial machine. Then, continue onto learning what you can about industrial machines and specifically your machine if possible. Just go on youtube and you'll find tons of helpful videos. Besides this, practice practice practice. Enjoy yourself! Ron

Very cool design and nice even stitching! Ron

Looks good! Large and clean images are key . I added you to our favorite pages. Do you have a website as well to show off your products? Ron