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I was on the verge (tomorrow) of purchasing a Consew 206RB for about $700 when I heard about an Adler 67 coming up for sale very soon, with a price of $1500. I am a bit conflicted, as I have heard so many good things about Adlers from my sewing machine man. Mostly I will be sewing heavy waxed canvas, but leather will get involved for straps and reinforcements. Are both machines equally suited to that sort of work, or is one definitely more desirable? The Adler seems a bit expensive, but both it and the owner are known to the sewing machine man, and he vouches for both. The machine has fewer than 20 hours on it. The Consew appears to be in good shape, was used for a backpack-making business, but it is out of town and I have not yet seen it. My husband was going to make a special trip to visit it tomorrow and, if it looked good, buy it. I hate to have him make the trip, and waste the seller's time, if I'm not pretty certain that it's what I want.

I'am in the market for a cylinder machine and don't want to spend more than $1200 $1500 at the most. Im looking for used because I can't afford new. I have a Reliable 8600b that I use now. I make tote bags ranging from 3-5 oz thick, and it's a pain in the ass because I know I need a cylinder machine. I originally was looking at The Boss by Tippmann because it's small and compact. I understand that it is slow and manual and I am willing to deal with that. I also looked at a Cowboy CB227R. I need some feedback on what other people use and if I'm completely wrong with the types of machines I'm looking at. I have heard some awful reviews about the boss but I have also heard some excellent reviews. I am pretty sure I need it to be a walking foot though, right? Please, feedback is greatly appreciated !! Here is a link so you can see what I sew and tell me if Im on the right track with my search... https://www.etsy.com/shop/LocknKeyLeathers?ref=si_shop

Hey there! I am selling one of my TippMann Boss Sewing Machines! This machine was used for two months and is in perfect condition! The only thing wrong with it is the gear shaft has a few missing teeth (Replacement Part $8.99) I would fix it myself but I am a father of two little ones and do not have the time. One day while working I put too much pressure on the lever and the teeth snapped off. After talking to the maker of the machine, I found out this is suppose to happen because if the teeth didnt snap off after so much pressure the entire machine would suffer due to pressure. This is a heck of deal and I am looking to get rid of it fast! Comes in original box with maunals and needles. If you are intrested please shoot me an email at thecodyvance@gmail.com Much Obliged, Cody Vance theleathernomad.com

Please help, I have a bgmc machine. Has always sewn great. Broke a needle the other day and ever since it is now skipping stitches every so often and is breaking needles. Have tried adjusting tension. Anyone have any ideas on what it might be?? Have caled the company and have been waiting for a call back for a few days.

I need help. I have tried to research this but i am amazed at how overwhelming and confusing this has been. I am looking to purchase a sewing machine. I make holsters and the majority of my work consistes of 8-9 oz leather i am looking for a machine that can handle the load. i know there are many options out there I am just looking for some direction from seasoned pros. I acquired a singer 241-12 in a trade recently and I know this machine will not work but it was basically given to me. I have roughly $1000 to spend. any reccomendations in this price range. Thanks

It's time to reorder leather needles for my industrial machine. Is there a discernible difference between 135 x 16 needles from different companies?

I recently bought a Tippmann Boss with a boat load of accessories. It had a presser foot in it that I can't identify. Can anyone tell me what it is and how it is used?

Just wanted to get the professional opinion of you all. I have a fairly small budget ($400) and I'm looking for a machine to do wallets, etc. Does anyone know anything about the Tuffsew machines for sale on ebay? Are they complete rubbish? here's the link to one http://www.ebay.com/itm/INDUSTRIAL-WALKING-FOOT-HEAVY-DUTY-SEWING-MACHINE-UPHOLSTERY-LEATHER-COMMERCIAL-/321008647674?pt=BI_Sewing_Machines&hash=item4abd9b3dfa any input or advice - or if you know of how I can better spend the 400, I'd appreciate it. Thank you in advance, Seth

I'm looking for a sewing machine that is good for sewing leather uppers and handbags. I was thinking about buying a post machine but I'm not sure if this would good for handbags. I used to use a Pfaff post for my shoe uppers but there may be something better out there that I'm not aware of. I'm based in the UK and I would preferably like to buy a used machine. Does anyone have any advice for me? Thanks.

Hi, I'm on the look out for a stitching machine. For making wallets, bags harnesses etc. I'm in the UK, southeast so I realise it might be difficult as most of you are in the US but I have to ask if anyone can help Franco

Hi everyone! I'm having an issue with my new compound, lockstitch, cylinder arm sewing machine. When I sew semi-anline or aniline dyed leather the backside leaves marks as shown in the picture (2 pieces of 2mm bridle shoulder). It doesn't do this on chrome tanned leather. Is this normal? Thanks! Elisa

Hi all, I have a brand new (about 5 yrs old but never been used) Juki sewing machine, it isnt really a leather machine though it might be usable for that purpose. We bought it a few years ago with the intention of using it to sew industrial quilted tarps that we were involved with at the time and that never panned out so it has been sitting in storage for about 5 years now and its time to find it a new home. I know this forum is geared towards leather only but thought that someone on here with experience in industrial sewing machines might be able to provide me some direction in trying to get this thing a new home. Thanks! Justin

Artisan 797 AB Walking Foot (Alternating Feed) Lockstitch Sewing Machine Artisan 797 AB Walking Foot (Alternating Feed) Lockstitch Sewing Machine with a Big "M" size Bobbin and Rotating Hook, New Style Presser Foot "Stepper" mechanism to stitch over obstacles and heavy seams. Hand presser Foot Lifting Lever located on front of machine, Dial operated stitch length regulator, Reverse feed lever with fully automatic Lubrication and sews up to 3/8" thickness with thread from size 33 up to size 138. The Complete sewing machine includes the Motor Stand Drive Unit with adjustable "T" style steel legs, an 27" gooseneck lamp, drawer and accessories. Recommended SCHMETZ brand Needle systems: 135 x 17 size 14 to 24. for fabrics and 135x16 size 14 to 24 for leathers The machine is used, but in fantastic working condition, ready to go! Asking $750 or best offer. Pick up is available in Wildomar, CA for free, or I can deliver it in the Inland Epire, Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego County, or Ventura County areas for a fee depending upon how far. Shipping can be done via FedEx Ground I can ship just the head to save you money, or I can disassemble the table and remove the motor and ship it all in separate boxes. Cost of shipping will be determined by what options you choose and delivery location. I can also palletize it for pick up by a freight company if you prefer.

I'm selling my Boss on eBay. It's the aluminum one and was made in 2001. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tippmann-Boss-Leather-Hand-Stitcher-/150973039983?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2326b1c56f Thanks

I need a lot of help..... My husband is getting a little sick of seeing just my eyes peeking over my lap top... I've been doing a lot of research on which sewing machine to start with for sewing leather. I've been given the OK to purchase a leather sewing machine, problem is i have no idea what i am looking for, and what i need. I want to make leather purses, wallets, ect. Nothing major, nothing seriously thick. Just an average leather purse. I only have $600.00 to spend on a machine and i am hesitant on purchasing used. I've been looking at some Econosew, juki, sailrite, basically anything that will sew leather under $600 buckaroos. Right now i have your basic home sewing machine that i use all the time so i am not a novice in the sewing world just a novice in the leather sewing world. I tried sewing some leather with my brother sewing machine it pierced through and sews but it wont sew with a heavy weight thread. Here is what i would like: Sewing machine that will sew with a thicker thread. (40#?) would like zigzag but not necessary. walking foot flat working surface under machine if that makes sence? servo motor or no sperate motor... i am fond of the sailrite machine not sure why. i dont want the cheapo junk brand i would like a reputable machine. It does seem like there are some Econosew machines in my price range too are they decent? so any ideas would be appriciated.... I dont need complex anwsers just someone in simple terms to say for your light medium work you should look at this machine in your price range..... That would be soooo wonderful.... THank You in advance. Im not sure what thickness the leather will be im gu

Hi! I've been reading these forums and they've been very helpful so far, and many topics have come close to what I'm looking for but I'm about to give up and I'm hoping someone has some information to help me. I want to sew garment weight leather, specifically, leather taken from old coats. I just purchased a Family Sew FS388 because from what I've read these machines work for sewing lighter (garment) weight leather. I can't purchase an industrial machine (price, space, weight, etc.) so this machine seemed perfect. So far the machine seems to sew thick layers of fabric well but when I try to sew leather it sometimes skips stitches and sometimes just doesn't even sew at all. It just leaves long lines of thread behind and bunches up the leather. It seems to be ok when I sew the leather together with fabric (either with the leather on top or bottom), although that's not perfect either as it skips a stitch here and there too. I called in to the place where I bought it and he insists that this machine will sew leather and that I should try a different needle as it could be bent (I'm using the one that came with the machine now) and experiment with the tension. Could these problems be coming from that? Or is there something else I should be concerned about. I would appreciate any help and advice. I've been trying so hard for so long to figure this out that I'm about to just give up!

This was intended for Wiz but I decided to post it here in case anybody else has any suggestions. Let me start by saying that I am new to leatherworking and have never used a sewing machine before. With that being said I’ve been looking into getting my first machine and I could probably raise the money for a cb4500 but I don’t know if I can justify it(YET). I am looking for something that is as versatile as possible and I see you have a National that you are happy with. What I was looking for and I could not find in the forum is something along the lines of (like they say in my country .. the mind after the fact) with the knowledge that you have now if you started from nothing and you were doing a large variety of projects from leather purses and wallets to gun holsters what tools/sewing machines would you buy , in what order and what prices would you be willing to pay? Also I see you recommend going to a local shop for a machine. I live in Ann Arbor and I’ve been looking for such a thing around here but it’s been a fruitless hunt to this point. Is my best bet going to Toledo? I would appreciate any input you might have regarding this. Thank you Alin

I want to make decretive Leather Bronc Halter nose bands, with hide, rhinestones, spots, & more. I'd like to use multiple or different hides, leathers such as stingray, embossed leathers. Can anyone help with patterns, & how to sew hides on? What tools & materials will I need, and where to get them? Any help would be so appreciated! I've attached some samples of what I'd like my projects to look like. Thanks, Andrea Any Tools for sale???

FOR SALE FERDCO PRO 2020 HEAVY LEATHER STITCHER $2695 (Originally paid over $4000) Classification - Cylinder-Arm Foot Lift - 3/4" Walking foot - triple feed Sewing Capability - 3/4" Throat Depth - 9" Shuttle Style - Oscillating Bobbin Style - Barrel Needle System - 794S Serv-1 Needle Sizes - 140, 160, 180, 200, 230, 250, 280 Thread Sizes - 69, 92, 99, 138, 207, 277, 346, 415, 554 Speed - up to 500 SPM Attachments available: takes all of the same attachments as the PRO 2000 Includes table, left toe narrow foot, narrow toe foot, thread scissors, lamp. Well taken care of. Works Great! Contact Zack Davis at 208-250-6570 or davisleather@gmail.com

Hi guys, I am new to leather working but have been making holsters, knife & axe sheaths & belts & business is booming (I am turning people away as I just don't have the time to make it all). As such, I want to buy a machine to drop my time per piece & start some larger projects (I am not looking forward to hand stitching full rifle scabbards !). I have been doing my reading here and searching the net for months for a good machine at a VERY decent price (as the recession hits everyone). I would love to spend the cash one time for a 'do everything' machine, but I don't have the spare $2500 + dollars right now , but I have found what seems like an ok deal to start sewing. Here is what I found : Leighton's Mach 1 Industrial sewing machine, $1000 local sale (save the shipping costs - BONUS), this one DOES have Reverse ! & comes with extra bobbins, table made for it, a few other extra's, and it has been set up to stitch saddlery & harnesses - so I know it will handle heavier leather for my holsters, thick sheaths, etc. What I WANT is a jump foot machine with a Needle pull through - one time buy, never need another machine. I am aware it's not the BEST machine for holsters, scabbards & sheaths as read on other posts here : http://leatherworker...?showtopic=9019 My QUESTION is whether I should buy it even though the needle and feed aren't ideal for holster work, and try to sell later or just hold off and buy the big one - ONE time maybe a year from now (ugg - I really want to get into the stitching and more projects to sell). I have to make my savings go as far as I can, so if compromise ISN'T worth it, I will wait, but if it is a great start I will consider and likely buy it. >>> Some of my stuff so far <<< You can see my hand stitching is good & getting better, but time wise... This is the actual machine here :

Hi, I'm new the the forum and I'm here with the hope to learn about sewing in general. I work in the marine industry and recently bought a used Juki DDL 8500 in great condition to learn on. My primary application is boat upholstery and canvas work with some leather here and there. The machine has a 3500 rpm clutch motor that I've adjusted and works fine. Here is my problem: Machine runs way too fast even with a new 2" pulley. Even when I slow it down by feathering the clutch, I find my vinyl slips around corners or over bumps/piping. When feeding, I can't get consistent stitch length because the motor is far too fast between speed transitions or when re-positioning materials (vinyl for example). Tried with regular fabrics and no problem there as long as you want to go fast. One idea is to replace the motor with a Reliable Quietsew 5000 high end servo motor with a smaller pulley but I still think vinyl fabrics will slip too easily. I realize I probably should get a walking foot asap. I tried a Sailrite LS-1, Juki 1541 and a Sunstar KM-340BL and a Consew 206RB, all walking foot machines. The sailrite would probably work just fine for me (easy to control) but I found it ran like a tractor. I'm a bit of a gear head and would like to get a nicer industrial machine (and I got the bug). The Juki 1541 was a dream and even though I can afford it, I would like to try to stay within a $1000 budget roughly. The Sunstar is a Korean machine and seemed fine although I can't remember if it was a regular walking foot or compound. Sales rep tells me to stay away from the Consew as it's made in china now. Here is a list of machines I researched that I thought would work in order of preference: -Juki DDL 1541 -Juki DU 1181 (looks identical to mine except walking foot for around $1100) -Consew 206RB (For around $1350 at Toledo Sewing) -Chandler 406 RB (Looks identical to Consew above for $1100) -Tacsew 111 (looks identical to Sailrite 111 which is a compound walking foot for arround a $800) -Sailrite LS-1 (for around $700). Is a compound foot waling machine that much better than a regular walking foot machine? Any of these machines I would get with a different motor like the Reliable Quietsew 5000. The Tacsew seems to be a great price and since Sailrite uses them I was thinking it would be a good bet. Anyway, it's been 2 weeks and I just can't make up my mind. I have a couple projects ready to go but need to decide on a machine. Any help and input is greatly appreciated. Gary.

Hello, I have inherited this Pfaff Industrial machine. As you can see in the images, the manual that came with the machine lists the Pfaff 491, 471 and 474. The machine is a Pfaff, and runs on compression from an Efka Variostop motor. The machine was running properly according to the last owner. This machine comes with the table and manual. For local pick up only. Knoxville, TN Please email brigid.ko(at)gmail.com with any questions, if you would like more images, etc. Thank you!

(the kind with a roller foot/feed meant for lighter leathers, shoes, bags, etc) Motorized or treadle, willing to refurb as long as most of the parts are in there. Anyone got one taking up space in the barn they want to get rid of? Thank you kindly!

Afternoon/evening folks, I'm looking at getting a machine in the very near future in order to expedite construction, and I'd like a little advice. I'm completely in the dark when it comes to machines - though my ex recommended that I get an old singer walking foot or one of the old treadle cobbler's machines. Just to give you an idea of what I'd like to do in the future: Leather and cloth combination for wallets Gloves Jackets bags (hopefully at some point I get brave enough to do shoes) Ultimately I realize that for these items, hand stitching just seems to not be the preferred technique, as the small aberrations in stitches would likely lend themselves to a rather primitive aesthetic. Your knowledge and advice is greatly appreciated. V/R, Seth