Techsew Ron

The Adler 120 is definitely the heavier duty machine. Not an easy find though, I'd scour the internet to see if anyone is selling a used one. There are also a few dealers who sell a similar machine under different brands, see the ads at the top of the page.

Good machines for doing clothing and some denim, maybe even some light weight garment leather, but for chaps you'll need a walking foot machine. Try finding something that can sew at least up to 3/8" and use needles up to size 24 (or more) and thread up to 207. You'll definitely want a machine with a servo motor too, which will allow you to sew at slow and controlled speeds.

LOL great advice Steve !

somehow this doesn't surprise me, Wiz

Nice read. I posted this on the Techsew facebook page a while ago, did you know the sewing machine was invented in a dream? Here's the full article for those who have a few minutes to read it: http://www.sewalot.com/elias_howe.htm

Just to clarify a few things: 1) The GA5-1 machine you found for $575 (I'm assuming on ebay) is NOT a Techsew sewing machine and does not include reverse, speed reducer, servo motor, u-table, option for smooth feet, warranty, tech support etc.. We are the only ones who sell the Techsew GA5-1R which includes reverse, SmartServo motor, speed reducer, u-table, option for smooth feet, full selection of accessories, warranty, tech support and more. 2) There are no additional tariffs or taxes on top of our shipping prices (unless you live in Canada where there is GST). 3) We've been contacted by people who have purchased the knockoff GA5-1 on ebay and were very disappointed, often looking for parts, motor, feet, needles etc. The servo motor and speed reducer are important components of this machine and are necessary in order to get the machine working to its proper sewing capacity and slow speed. I recommend that no matter who you purchase from, make sure it's from an established sewing machine dealer who can offer parts, warranty & post-sale support for whichever machine you decide on. An established dealer will also make all the necessary adjustments and inspections prior to shipping it out to make sure it works the way it should. You can contact any of the sewing machine dealers who sponsor leatherworker.net for more information, Art and Wiz also offer great advice.

Marie, we're currently sold out of smaller size needles for this machine, but you can purchase them from Bob he also carries needles for the Techsew GA5-1R.

Glad you're enjoying your new SmartServo motor, Russ. Our current stock of motors was shipped to us with the minimum speed of 200 RPM (our initial stock was minimum 100RPM). We're working with our supplier to get it back to 100 RPM in the next shipment. I'll pass along the message to Mike! Thanks, Ron

Now I've heard it all. Enjoy your new machine!

You will find it difficult to find a zigzag, walking foot machine for your budget of $850. New zigzag walking foot machines are usually available on special order and can go for around $3000 for the complete set. If you can do without the zigzag, you can easily find a walking foot machine from any of the dealers on this site. Good luck! Ron

Samantha, We're here to help...call us anytime and I'll be happy to answer any and all of your questions. Ron

Hi Samantha, We stock needles and all parts & accessories for the Techsew GA5-1R, as we do for all of our machines. We have needle sizes #22 through #27 available. Recommended thread size for size 22 needles is either a 92 or 138. Let me know if you have any other questions! We're open from 9am to 5pm EST. Ron

here's a needle/thread size chart you can download and print: http://raphaelsewing.com/blogimg/techsew_ndl_thread_chart.pdf Ron

very nice stitching, Steve! very impressed with the work in here.

congrats on the new machine! practice, practice, and practice some more. you may find this needle/thread compatibility chart useful: http://raphaelsewing.com/blog/?p=11 and here's a video on how to thread your machine: enjoy! Ron

You are correct. The Techsew 180-2 has been discontinued and replaced with the new Techsew 5100, equipped with the SmartServo motor, available now in stock. Ron

I must agree with this. We barely even sell the non-reverse model anymore for this reason. Call us if you need anything, Chris ! Ron

Doesn't sound like our machine. Our version of the 111w155 (Techsew 0302) has plenty of presser foot and accessories options and can also be equipped with either a 3/4HP clutch motor or Techsew 550 variable speed servo motor. It's a great machine for upholstery, bags, wallets, car and boat covers, general leatherwork and more. It can use up to 138 thread size and up to size 23 needle. Feel free to call or email us if you have any questions about this or other machines that we carry. Ron

No problem! All demo and instructional videos are located on our YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/raphaelsewingVIDEO Ron

Great job so far, Wiz! Ron

Here's another video of ours showing the thread coming up from the bottom: You can see this step at about 1:36 into the video. Good luck, Ron

Nice fur machine you got there. Here's an instruction manual if you need it: http://parts.singerco.com/IPinstManuals/46K29_K30.pdf We sell a similar machine, the Techsew 202 and Techsew 402. If you want to see some closeup shots of how it sews and how the stitch is made we have some videos up on youtube: Good luck with your new machine! Ron