Techsew Ron

Look out for a walking-foot machine (walking foot is a feeding mechanism that is strongly recommended when sewing leather or bulky materials. Helps feed everything evenly. Also known as compound feed or triple feed). You should be able to find a good used machine for around $850 to $1000. New machines of this type range from $1000 to $1300. Most dealers stock both new and used machines. Good luck in your search! Ron

This says it all... Whomever you buy the machine from, just make sure you have a good warranty and can actually reach their tech support. Ron

Looking good Jay! Call me if you need anything. Ron

You'll want the most narrow cylinder diameter possible in order to sew into tighter areas of the bag. The cylinder diameters on the above machines should be fine for what you're doing. If you want a machine with a binding attachment I recommend purchasing a machine with a binder that has the option to sew without it. This will be easier than trying to find a compatible binding attachment for a non-binding machine. Ron

your needle can't be in very good shape right now !!

The Pfaff 335 will sew up to 3/8" thick using maximum #23 needle and #138 thread. Stitch length goes up to 6mm. The one pictured has a binding attachment for sewing tape binding. Price seems reasonable but you should make sure it's sewing properly before buying. Ron

As previously mentioned this is either an Adler 67 or 167. Great walking foot machine for general leather work, upholstery and more. We have the same one on our ebay and on our website. Ron

Here you go, and for all others interested: Top: Bottom: Its been mentioned in previous threads that the bottom marks can sometimes be rubbed out. I think Wiz should be able to clarify this. Most of our customers who purchase this machine don't seem to mind it because the bottom side is not exposed. If so, I would recommend a heavy duty walking foot machine such as the Techsew 4100 or Techsew 5100. Let me know if you have any other questions about our machines. Thanks, Ron

The 440R (Ferdo's version of our Techsew GA5-1R) will sew up to 1/2". If you want something more versatile then you need a 441 clone, these can sew from 6-7oz up to 7/8". Ron

Sylvia, We used to sell this machine years ago before discontinuing it due to a number of reasons including build quality and lack of parts available. It is mounted facing right. It is NOT a walking foot machine, its simply a roller foot machine that is used for shoes and boots. We've since replaced it with the Techsew GA5-1R. I'll mirror Wiz's comments in warning you not to buy directly from China. You'll encounter many issues related to importing and it won't be worth the headache, plus the costs involved in setting it up properly and finding parts. What kind of items are you looking to sew? Ron

You'll be fine with this machine. Clutch motor can be ok if you can handle the speed, this may take some time to get used to.

The Techsew 2700 is perfect for wallets, belts, guitar straps, chaps, saddlebags, vests and more. We have customers using the 2700 for all of these applications. If you want to go for a heavier machine (ie- Techsew 4100 or Techsew 5100) they will both be capable of sewing all of the previously mentioned applications starting at about 6-7oz, plus a lot more (up to 7/8" total thickness). Feel free to give us a call if you have any other questions. Thanks, Ron

A good point mentioned earlier in this thread is that most dealers carry a few used lock stitch machines for sewing garment weight leather and other light materials (chaps, boot tops, vests etc). This plus the Techsew 4100 = success ! Ron

In terms of cylinder bed length for 441 clones we usually recommend to go for the longest arm you can afford. You never know what kind of items you'll need to sew a few years from now and obviously you want to get the most out of your investment! On the other hand, we do understand that this is a significant investment and for this reason we also offer a more affordable shorter arm machine. You'll be more than happy with this kind of machine for sewing holsters, tack repair and saddle building. Thread size you can use is up to #415. Feel free to give us a call if you need any more advice! Ron

I should warn you, most people who make the mistake of buying this machine from one of the ebay drop-shippers end up calling me a week later looking for replacement parts, accessories, instruction manuals and technical support since the seller doesn't offer any of these. Keep in mind the few hundred in savings will easily be spent on getting a technician to set up your machine properly, accessories that aren't included, replacing parts that break (if you can find them) etc.. Buying it from a reputable dealer will save you MANY headaches. Ron

We recently got a large shipment of used walking foot sewing machines. Top quality German machines, can sew up to 3/8" thick great for general leather work such as wallets, handbags, notebook covers, key fobs, upholstery etc... The following are available: - Adler 167 flatbed walking foot - made in Germany - $949 - Pfaff 142 2-Needle (1/4" split bar) flatbed walking foot - made in Germany - $949 Machines are in perfect sewing condition. Refurbished, oiled, adjusted, inspected, sewn off. Includes table, clutch motor, 6 month warranty. Add $99 for 550W Servo motor. commercial freight shipping in USA is $230. Call, email or private message for more info ! Ron

This machine will sew garment weight leather and light leather bags. If you want to sew belts and collars you should look for a a walking foot machine. Thanks, Ron

If you're sewing up to 28oz total you definitely need a 441 clone. As mentioned earlier you could use a medium weight stitcher but you'd be pushing it pretty hard if you're sewing at maximum capacity so you will be better off with a more powerful machine.

Belts, yes. Holsters - depends on your sewing thickness. Ron

great site! very organized. will certainly be signing up. cheers, Ron

For leather totes and handbags the most popular choice is a walking foot machine with a 10.5" long cylinder bed and about 3/8" sewing capacity. Flatbed table attachment is a good idea when sewing longer/flat items. These machines are good for sewing 3oz thin garment leather all the way up to about 2 layers of 8oz leather. Thanks, Ron

Congrats Jason, let me know if you need anything at all. Ron

You've mentioned 2 entirely different classes of machines (upholstery grade vs. 441 clone)...what exactly are you going to be sewing?

Never heard of this light sensitive control issue before, though I can't speak for other motors because not all are the same! Ron

this about sums it up for me !