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Hi Terry, Congratulations on your potential new purchase! The Singer 168w 101 is a classic industrial sewing machine, known for its durability and heavy-duty performance. Here are a few points to consider regarding the price and overall investment: Price Evaluation: $400 for the machine, table, and light, especially after a servicing, sounds like a reasonable deal for an industrial machine of this caliber. Adding a servo motor for around $125 brings your total to $525, which is still quite competitive for a reliable machine that can handle heavy materials. Condition: Since the machine has been serviced and will be demonstrated as working properly, you can have more confidence in its condition. Look for signs of wear and tear on key components like the needle bar, presser foot, and feed dogs. Even if it's in good shape, minor parts might still need replacement over time. Clutch vs. Servo Motor: Clutch motors are robust and powerful but can be loud and less precise. A servo motor, on the other hand, will give you more control, is quieter, and generally more energy-efficient. Upgrading to a servo motor is a smart move, especially if you're new to sewing machines, as it offers better speed control and less noise. Historical Value: Given that it's a 60-plus-year-old unit, it also has some historical value and craftsmanship that modern machines might lack. Many vintage sewing enthusiasts find these machines to be well worth the investment. Additional Costs: Consider any potential costs for accessories, needles, and spare parts. While Singer parts are usually accessible, it's something to keep in mind. Usage: Think about what you'll be using the machine for. The 168w 101 is great for heavy fabrics and leather, so if that’s your intended use, it’s a solid choice. Overall, based on your description and the price, it seems like a fair deal, especially after ensuring it's in good working order post-service. The servo motor upgrade will significantly enhance your experience. Just make sure to see it in action and confirm everything is functioning as expected before finalizing the purchase.

Congratulations on taking strides towards launching your leather goods business! It sounds like you've put a lot of thought into your products and are ready to take the next steps. Let's address each of your questions: Professional Photography: While hiring a professional photographer might strain your budget, it could significantly enhance the professionalism of your catalog. However, if funds are tight, utilizing your DSLR camera and editing software like Gimp can be a good alternative for now. Remember, clear, well-lit, and high-quality images are crucial for showcasing your products effectively. Website Creation: While a free website can be a temporary solution, it might not provide the polished look and functionality you need. Investing in a paid website with a clean domain name can lend credibility to your brand. However, if budget constraints persist, ensure your free website is well-optimized for SEO and SMO to enhance visibility. Website Functionality: Considering your business model, an ecommerce website would likely be more beneficial as it allows customers to purchase directly from your site. However, if you opt for a display website initially, ensure it's easy for customers to inquire about and order your products. Manufacturing Equipment: Researching and investing in quality sewing machines like Adler 669M or Juki is crucial for maintaining product quality and efficiency. Consider factors like durability, stitch quality, and ease of maintenance when making your decision. Sales Platform: Both options have their merits. Selling on established platforms like Amazon can expose your products to a larger audience, but owning your website provides more control over branding and customer experience. You could start with Amazon to gain traction while simultaneously building your website presence. Social Media Marketing: Leveraging multiple social media platforms can indeed boost your brand visibility and sales. While it's possible to automate posting across platforms, it's essential to tailor your content to each platform's audience. Engage with your audience, use relevant hashtags, and consider collaborating with influencers to drive traffic to your website. Payment Gateways: Researching and choosing a reliable payment gateway is crucial for secure transactions on your website. Look for options that offer easy integration, reasonable fees, and support for multiple payment methods. Offline Sales: Establishing a sales force, especially on commission-only terms, can be a cost-effective way to expand your reach. Look for individuals with sales experience and a passion for your products. Provide them with adequate training, marketing materials, and incentives to drive sales effectively.