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For the newbies out there, here is a well written sewing machine blog I discovered. It mentions this site for leather sewing information so I figured I would share it. http://vssmb.blogspot.com/2012/04/difference-between-domestic-industrial.html?m=1 Enjoy.

Hello, First time poster here. I've gotten a lot of great info on sewing machines here and am hoping to find some help with figuring out what is wrong with my stitch. I'm sewing with a Consew 1206 and am a newbie. Bob at Toledo sewing kindly set me up with my machine to sew some handbags. I'm attaching a pic of the top and bottom stitches that will hopefully give someone more experienced a clear idea of what is going on. I'm wondering if the needle is too big?? Thanks!

Hi everyone i have been making dog collars and leads for some time now and have been asked to make an awful lot of horse things lately. I have discovered that most things for horses must be sewn and I am tired of hand sewing. Could anyone recommend a good sewing machine for up to two pieces of 9-12 oz leather? I don't want to spend a ton of money ideally. Tandy leather of course only recommends the Boss which seems excessively expensive for a machine powered by a lever. If it was a wheel you spun I could see that more but not a lever. Thanks Holly

Hey y'all! I was watching Bruce Cheaney sewing a dog collar on his Cowboy machine on Youtube last month. After that I could not get that sewing machine out of my head. I tried to find every cheap way possible to attain a machine but soon realized I just needed to buy a real leather sewing machine. I went into the basement and was able to find enough things to sell to buy the Cowboy 3200. I bought it from Neel's Saddlery. Ryan answered all my questions and I bought a package deal that included a pair of single sided feet and the material guide. Here is an unboxing and build on the 3200. I love it so far and learning as I go!

Selling my Cobra 4-P Leather sewing Machine sold by the Leather Machine Company. Pictures and all included can be viewed here: http://www.leathermachineco.com/shop/cobra-class-4-p-premium-package/ I am the second owner of this machine. I purchased it with very little to no hours on the machine, and it was ever so lightly used. I have used it a total of 30 hours. It runs well -no issues with it at all. I will include a few extra spools of thread and extra needles that I have. I am moving across country and cannot take the machine with me. I am asking $2200 I live near Portland Oregon. Buyer will need to arrange pick-up or shipping(which is not included in cost), and payment for purchase is due immediately, Cash, via Paypal or Credit card (can process thru my Square). Would like to sell asap- so no holds. Thank you for looking! Please text me for any questions as I have internet only at library( since I am moving) 360-355-2903 (Tara)

Well I posted here a couple of weeks back trying to get some insight on what to get as far as my first leather sewing machine and I was gonna go with a Cobra 4 but went with the Cowboy instead...well because the "Bob's" are awesome guys! The CB4500 came in yesterday on a rainy day in drought stricken California and I was scrambling to get everything in my "workshop" (read garage, tiny by the way) and with the help of my geezer neighbors the machine was up and almost running in about an hour. By the way, to those new to leather sewing machine....this thing is a BEAST!!! It's heavy as heck and definitely would need another set of arms to help you unpack and get it assembled. The picture in Bob's website doesn't really do it justice and scale...I'm a small guy (5'5") and it's big to me. First thing I did was watch Bob's YouTube video on how to thread it and so I did and tested it on some scraps....smooth as buttah! But it was making a mark so I loosened up the presser feet tension all the way up...like almost popping it out and then loosened the top thread tension just a tad. Some of my scraps had the knot showing on top so I loosened the top thread tension just a bit more and that seemed to fix it...I have to warn you though I had no clue as to what I was doing but fiddling around with tensions and whatnot I finally got it to where I was satisfied. I kept the sample leather that came with the machine just to have a reference on how it's supposed to sew when it came out of Bob's shop. First thing that I noticed, and this is for the newbies on this machine, when you turn off the switch, the servo motor still has a "load" in it and will still move the machine, so make sure to wait a few seconds before fiddling with anything especially with the needle. I will move the on/off switch further out of the table so I could see it easily and I plugged in the lamp which is left in the ON position behind the servo motor so that I know when the machine is ON or OFF and that gives me another way of telling that yes, it's on or yes the needle went through your finger. I like redundant safety systems and so I don't mess anything up because I love my fingers. With that said, I got the hang of the machine last night and decided on making my dog a collar using #277 thread that came with the machine, I stitched at the slowest setting first and bumped it up a couple of notches because the slowest is...yep, reaaallllly slow! I was enjoying the machine last night and the only thing that ruined it was that I have to go to sleep. I'd like to thank Bob and Bob again for being such cool guys and answering all my newbie questions and giving me advice on what to really works with what. I just ordered a lighter spring for the CB4500 and a few more spools of thread and that should tide me over for a bit until I get another machine from him. Wow this was a long'ish post, just goes to show how stoked I am with the machine and if you're trying to decide on what kind of machine to get, I would wholeheartedly recommend the CB4500 or the smaller versions if you don't need this big of a machine. I still have a long way to go but learning from the pros here in LW saved me a lot of time and energy and I'm so glad that I went with the Cowboy.

Looking to pull the trigger on either machine in good working order. Let me know what you have. Willing to pick up if possible.

Does anyone have the Techsew 5100? Found it in the ads at the top of this page. Looks pretty good Does light, med, and heavy leather. Seems to have a good warranty. Pretty pricey. But I'd have a huge range of capabilities. Thoughts?

Hey folks, I'm new to the board here and hopefully I'm not violating forum decorum (hey that rhymed), but I've got a couple industrial sewing machines for sale. Got a Pfaff double needle post bed with roller foot that has a 1/8" gauge and a powerful clutch motor, comes with table, thread stand, and light. Also have a Pfaff double needle flatbed with a 1/4" gauge and a super powerful clutch motor. I bought both of these machines just about 4 months ago, before I learned which machines I really needed for the work that I do, and ended up not using them at all other than to test them out. They're both a few years old but in perfect working order. If you do a search on Ebay for Pfaff post beds (this one is listed there), you'll see that others are much more expensive than mine, and that this is actually an excellent deal at $2,500. Same with the Pfaff double needle flatbed - a steal at $2,000. If you pay for shipping, I'll ship them via a trucking company and it will cost usually between $250 and $300, though obviously I would prefer a central Florida buyer (I'm in Kissimmee, Florida). Post bed machine: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pfaff-Industrial-Sewing-Machine-Model-1296-Double-Needle-Post-Bed-w-Roller-/221732080341?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item33a0430ad5 Flatbed machine: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pfaff-1422-Double-Needle-Industrial-Sewing-Machine-/221733596270?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item33a05a2c6e. If you are interested in either machine, let's talk. My email is LSU91@hotmail.com and phone is 407-304-0924. Thanks Jason

Looking to sell my Tippmann Boss leather stitcher. The machine works perfectly. I used it in a pro holster making business for about 2 years before my arthritic hands made leather work tough. It works perfectly fine. I have either 5 or 10 extra spools that will come with it as well as the LED light (you can see the light in the photo) as well as at least one, possibly 2 spools of thread perfect for making holsters and whatever needles I have laying around. I'm asking $1025 for all plus $25 shipping (continental US only). The machine works perfectly well. I just made myself a holster with it about 2 months ago.

I have a Neel’s Saddlery Model 5, leather/saddlery sewing machine. It comes with custom table, TCM Servo Motor, instructions, some bobbins and needles, a bag of leather scrap, etc. We moved this summer and it has not been reassembled onto its table since our move but it is in otherwise – ready to go , outstanding condition. Neel’s is super helpful. They helped me learn to thread the machine properly over the phone. Although there are instructions included with the machine, along with original purchase receipt and a users guide. It was over $1200 new a few years ago. http://www.neelsaddlery.com/ This machine has been well taken care. I have decided to change direction with my work, and it has been sitting, unused for over a year now. asking $750 – pickup or I can possibly meet up. I will be in NOVA and MD a few times over the coming weekends. LOCATION – Broadway, VA

Hi all Thanks so much for all the info on this site. I've already learned so much from the pinned posts about leather sewing machines. Really great resource there. Unfortunately, I still need a bit of advice so I thought I would post on here. I'm looking into buying my first industrial leather sewing machine. I'm very excited! The machine I'm currently looking at is the Highlead GC2698-1 with a compound feed walking foot and a narrow cylinder arm. I don't require the binder feature on this machine. The supplier I'm looking at is Braithwaites in Manchester (http://www.highlead....ead-GC2698.html). They appear to be the Highlead contact in the UK and I've had a few quotes from them. Essentially, I want this machine for light to mid-weight leather. I don't plan on sewing anything incredibly thick on it (i.e. no thicker than 0.5mm), nor do I plan on using too thick a thread or needle. I want it for making ladies leather handbags and clutches, thin belts and straps. It won't be getting a lot of use daily as, unfortunately, I will only be able to sew after work or on the weekends. It just has to survive light to moderate use, not a production style environment. My reasons for looking at the Highlead machine are partly that it fits within my budget and partly that because it will be new, I will have a guarantee and someone who can service it for me if anything goes wrong. Since I'm still a novice user of industrial machines, I think I will need the free support that this machine will give me. I would love an Adler or Seiko but for a machine that will see such a light amount of use, I just can't really justify the cost right now. Maybe one day, when I'm rich from selling my handbags, I'll splash out and treat myself. So, what I really need to know from you all, is if anyone has used these machines and what they think of them? I've not used one before and I am curious as to how reliable they are and how they sew the leather I've mentioned above. I guess I just don't want to spend all that money on a Highlead only to discover that, really, I should have just bitten the bullet and bought a brand new Seiko or Adler because they are better mechanically. I know you get what you pay for but for what I'm paying for the Highlead, will it be adequate? Thanks in advance for your help on this. It's been a difficult decision to make (read: it's taken me months just to narrow it down to this one machine!) Seeya Betty

Hi everyone, I recently purchased a brand new Consew 199R-1A (specifications here: http://www.consew.com/View/Consew-Model-199R-1A-1). I've been having some troubles with it (details below) and would like to ask the members of the forum these questions: -Did I buy the wrong machine or am I misusing it? -Is this sort of quality to be expected from Consew? -If so, can you recommend a zig-zag machine for medium-weight suede that would be less of a headache? -If not, is it possible that I bought a lemon? and finally, -Should I try returning or selling this machine and getting a different one? Background information: A couple of weeks ago, I read a lot of the information on the LWN forums about sewing machines and decided that Consew seemed like a reputable brand. I make rock climbing shoes from 3-4 oz. cowhide suede (seems like this is usually referred to as a chap split). All of the critical seams in these shoes are abutted seams, which require a zig-zag sewing machine. One seam in each shoe is overlapped - so the machine has to stitch through two layers of suede - but the machine doesn't need to step up or down over the edge of the seam. From this I concluded (perhaps erroneously) that I wouldn't need a walking foot machine. With all this in mind, I ordered my Consew 199R-1A through a local dealer. When the dealer received it, I joined him in his store to help assemble the machine and learn about it. I was surprised to find that while the parts seemed solid, the machine did not seem designed for assembly or serviceability, and some parts, like the stitch length regulator, stuck quite badly. The dealer and I unstuck some parts, adjusted the machine, and then I tested it with the suede I was using at the time. Since the machine performed well, I took it home. However, within a week, when a new order of different suede came in, I started breaking needles. It seemed like the needles were breaking because either the timing was off (I could see them hitting the hook), or because the suede was deflecting them into the hook. I stepped up to 135x8 DIA needles in size 18 and was able to finish the rock climbing shoes I was making at the time. However, in the course of solving my needle problem, I inserted and removed needles probably 50+ times. About another week later, the threads in the needle post for the set screw which holds the needle in are stripped. The set screw no longer locks the needle in place. I've looked at the set screw, and its threads seem fine. Based on the above information and on Consew's reputation, do you think it's likely that I'll continue to have problems with this machine? Thanks in advance for your input. -Laura

Hi There, I've started making purses and bags from cowhide - so it's not really thick leather but it still has the hair on. I need some advice on which type of sewing machine to invest in. (I'm currently using a heavy dutyish domestic machine but the finish isn't great and I think it's about to blow up!) I understand that i need a walking foot sewing machine, would you agree this is necessary for this type of work? I don't want to spend any more than £4-500 if possible, would i be able to find something suitable within this budget? could anyone advise on a make or model and also on which brands are considered best? I understand that it might be best to take the material I'm using to an industrial machine dealer and see if i can have a go on a couple of machines but if I could go with some idea of what I'm after that would be better. I would really appreciate any help or advice! thanks in advance! P

Hello All, I'm new to the craft and wanted to know what are some suggestions for a sewing machine that can sew leather? I'm on a serious budget and wouldn't mind buying a used setup as well. I want to get a machine that can handle from light to heavy weight leathers. I've been on here looking at some folks suggestions and I'm starting to get over whelmed with specs and requirements and all. I just want something for my entry level then I'll move up as I progress. Thanks,

Hello! I am in desperate need of some good advise and I think I have found the place. I am a beginner in the leather world however would love to be expert one day. I am over trying to fight my home sewing machine to sew lightweight leather with sad results. Right now I primarily work with handbags, large bags, etc- that is where my main interest lies but I would like to try some light shoes such as sandals or accessories however I wont be doing saddles or boots etc.... Im not sure where leather may take me in the future. I want a good reliable machine and so far after much reading seems like I continue to be pointed toward a Techsew 2750 or a Cobra 4. My concern is that I may outgrow the Techsew however worry that the Cobra 4 may be too much machine.. Am I over thinking the machines? Any advise would be appreciated!!

Hello all, I've got this lovely all original Singer 45K56 Cylinder Arm machine that I bought a few months back to do my knife sheaths with. I did this in anticipation of my sewing arm getting worse, but since I had a hydro cortisone injection, it got a lot better. Moreover, I don't make that many Sheaths anyway as I've cut back a bit. Considering how much time, effort and money I wasted chasing down a suitable proper leather sewing machine, I felt that I ought to let folk on here know about it before I put it on eBay etc. I'm not a dealer so you won't get any BS from me. Check me out from my website http://www.customknivesandsticks.co.uk/ and you'll then know who you're dealing with. Well, if one was to see where I've got the machine set up you'd wonder how come my good lady hasn't left home! It's taking far too much space and I'd like my kitchen table back in its place. So if anybody in the UK is interested, get in touch with me on paulfenech@talktalk.net and we'll do a fair deal. I got this machine from a fine and proper trustworthy gentleman called Michael Hill, who's work is just superb. I haven't even got around to practising with the machine, but I guarantee it that all is fine with it and it'll work a treat. I live just north of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. By the way, I fetched this machine in my Subaru estate car, so no larger vehicle is needed really. I won't post any photos on here as I can easily send them via e-mail. OK, that's it from me. Just so you know; I'm allergic to time wasting greedy idiots who think they can get something for silly money. Treat me with respect and deal fairly with me - that's all I ask. Best wishes to all - Paul (aka Frenchy)

Hello Leatherworkers! First post. Long time reader. I have recently decided to take a leap into the world of sewing machines to tackle some bigger projects that would be too difficult to handle with hand stitching. I have an opportunity to purchase either a Singer 78-1 or Singer 96k40 which are both available and in my budget (sadly the singer 111w was neither). The thickest leather I will be sewing will be 2x5oz leather or possibly 2x6oz whereas the smallest would be two layers of 2oz. I believe both of these machines will handle this although the high end might be pushing it. The 78-1 has a walking foot and can handle 138 thread, which is ideal. However, the 96k40 is fully serviced and ready to go in amazing condition. Also, 'The Wiz' on this forum has spoken fairly highly of the 96k40 as it was his first industrial machine I believe. Any and all insights and opinions to help guide my choice is greatly appreciated. Excited, Alexander Thank you for the years of learning!

Hello Leatherworkers! First post. Long time reader. I have recently decided to take a leap into the world of sewing machines to tackle some bigger projects that would be too difficult to handle with hand stitching. I have an opportunity to purchase either a Singer 78-1 or Singer 96k40 which are both available and in my budget (sadly the singer 111w was neither). The thickest leather I will be sewing will be 2x5oz leather or possibly 2x6oz whereas the smallest would be two layers of 2oz. I believe both of these machines will handle this although the high end might be pushing it. The 78-1 has a walking foot and can handle 138 thread, which is ideal. However, the 96k40 is fully serviced and ready to go in amazing condition. Also, 'The Wiz' on this forum has spoken fairly highly of the 96k40 as it was his first industrial machine I believe. Any and all insights and opinions to help guide my choice is greatly appreciated. Excited, Alexander Thank you for the years of learning!

Hi guys, I am very new to the leather industry and now considering to buy a cylinder-bed sewing machine to make fashion bags with canvas and cow or sheep leather. I used to use old Adler 69-373 for a short time in a leather work shop and it worked pretty good. However, it's quite hard to find a second hand Adler 69 here in Thailand, hence I am looking for other brand/model which can deliver the same stitching quality and has similar specification. There are 2 choices at the present(all are used machine) 1) Juki DSC - 246 2) Juki LS-1341 I mostly use chrome tanned leather and the material thickness to be sewn is about 5-8 mm. Can you suggest which one is close to ADLER 69? What points should I concern when looking for second hand sewing machine? I am also happy if you recommend any other sewing machine(well known brand here are PFAFF, Durkopp adler, Juki, Seiko, Pegasus, Yakumo and several Chinese brands) Prinze

Hello every one I am very !!!! Interested in finding a singer 45k sewing machine walking foot version or at least a walking needle version. If you or some one you know has one that would be willing to sell please drop me a line at lilpep_27@yahoo.com I can trade leather or simply cash !! For it. If it has the treadle stand it would be a plus but head only would be great as well. Thanks

Howdy! After seeing a flat bed attachment for an Adler, I decided to make one on my own for my Artisan Toro 4000. Thought you might like to see it. It is pretty easy to make and cost a lot less than the commercially available ones. It's made of 1/2" plywood. I used a piece of 1/8" x 1" Aluminium to make a strap to hold the bed securely in place Another view of underside There are two guides, easily moved or removed. When both guides are used, you can sew a perfectly straight line on a strap or belt. Cutouts on the wood were done with a scroll saw. If you didn't know, the scroll saw is a great piece of equipment. It can cut almost anything, including leather.

Hi, I was wondering if anyone out there has a lower needle guide for a singer 97-10 (or knows where I can find one). Mine just broke an I need a replacement. The one I broke is for a size 28 needle. If you have one please let me know. I would be happy with other size guides also; 25, 24, 23 or any other size. Thanks Brian

I just acquired an Adler 105-64 leather sewing machine. I am looking for the user manual that goes with it so that I can make sure I have it threaded right. If anyone has one, please let me know. Any other helpful info on it will be greatly appreciated. THANK YOU