Ferdco 6/6

[Nixon66]

I have looked through the posts and can't seem to find any previous info on this machine.

I have heard good things about the Ferdco 6/6 but not sure if I need it or something else.

I am a beginner in leather work but know that where I am going with it I will need a machine. My main thing is going to be knife sheaths but I will be doing other leather knick knacks too. The occasional belt, holster, cell phone holder and I really want to make some motorcycle seats as well.

Could I please get some professional opinions on the Ferdco 6/6 and also some direction in chosing the right machine for my needs. Price is an object. Somewhere in the 2500 or less range. The more affordable the better but I don't want cheap Chinese knockoff either.

Thanks

[Art]

Hi Nixon,

The 6/6 is a Chinese machine, I think. It is a clone attempt of the Classic which is an American version of the No.9 which is a US clone of the Pearson #6. Of all the above I would rather have a #6 or a No.9 stitcher (I have the No.9). The Pearson #6 with the treadle stand is really the holy grail of this type of machine, you'll never find one under $5,000. These are absolutely the greatest harness machines ever made and my No.9 is used exclusively for that. I have had offers of two 6/6 machines for my No.9 and I was obviously under impressed with them as I still have the No.9.

The machines that are probably best in your price range are the Artisan 3000 and the Artisan 618-SC. although the Artisan 1797 is also an option for the price conscious. These are Chinese machines but that is not a bad thing anymore. Artisan machines are about 3/4 made in China and then finished in California. I can attest to their reliability and so can many other famous names in the leatherworking field. There is also FERDCO who also import machines (China) and both the machines and the people behind them are excellent. There are also some importers who are having machines made as cheaply as possible and these you should stay away from. Generally, you get what you pay for in an industrial sewing machine.

For the person new to sewing machines I always recommend a new standard threaded needle machine, the industrial version of the home machine, just bigger with separate big motors.

Art

I have looked through the posts and can't seem to find any previous info on this machine.

I have heard good things about the Ferdco 6/6 but not sure if I need it or something else.

I am a beginner in leather work but know that where I am going with it I will need a machine. My main thing is going to be knife sheaths but I will be doing other leather knick knacks too. The occasional belt, holster, cell phone holder and I really want to make some motorcycle seats as well.

Could I please get some professional opinions on the Ferdco 6/6 and also some direction in chosing the right machine for my needs. Price is an object. Somewhere in the 2500 or less range. The more affordable the better but I don't want cheap Chinese knockoff either.

Thanks

[Nixon66]

Thanks Art. I was beginning to wonder if anyone had heard of the 6/6. I looked up the A 3000 you spoke of and it is set up just like I wanted. The price is right and with your recommendation, I certainly feel better about the purchase. I had seen them before but just wasn't sure. I did not realize or consider that everthing was being made in China now anyway.

As far as the Pearson. Well I have to admit that as little as I know about leather machines, the one thing I am aware of is that the Pearson #6 and #9 are the gold standard as it were.

Thanks for taking the time to answer. That is one of the things I love about Forums. You can get some top notch professionals to answer your newby questions and not make you feel ridiculous for asking.