Sewing machine recommendation for belts and guitar straps

[lovelyleather]

My son is new to leather working, but he has come to realize how long it takes to sew by hand.  I would like to purchase a sewing machine for him for Christmas that won't break the bank (I am a school teacher).  He sews belts, guitar straps and customizes Hey Dudes with leather tops.  Any suggestions on a good machine? 

 

 

[JayEhl]

I do not profess myself to be any kind of expert and many others here have way more experience than I, but I can tell you that true leather working sewing machines (with walking foot) aren't cheap to start with;  but you can get some manual versions (hand crank) that will be less expensive.  I cannot attest to the qualities but I've hear Tipman Boss machines are pretty good.  New they look to be a grand but you may find it used, cheaper.  But if you want to go the used route stay tuned this forum for items that are being sold, ebay, etc.

Good luck

~JL

[Wizcrafts]

I think that a Consew 206RB-5 is perfect for sewing belts, guitar straps and leather appliques . It takes #138 bonded thread, top and bottom and has a large M size bobbin. The machine sews up to 3/8 inch seams (in soft to medium temper compressible material). It has a push down reverse lever to lock the stitches and can sew as long as 4 stitches per inch. This machine is equally at home sewing vinyl, canvas and upholstery leather. With an edge guide or edge guide foot it can sew along the edges of belts, guitar straps, chaps and anything else that can be sewn flat. It is also good at sewing patches onto the back of leather vests.

[Jakki3Schola]

Try to find something from Consew. I started with this machine and that's a good one for amateurs and that's not as expensive. I agree with your son about sewing by hand. Remembering my start in this field, I even skipped my lessons at college to spend my time sewing. Fortunately, there are a lot of helpful sources which are saved me from exclusion. But better to not torture yourself with hard sewing and start using the machine. That's the reason they were created for!

[Jakki3Schola]

On 2/16/2023 at 5:09 PM, Jakki3Schola said:

Try to find something from Consew. I started with this machine and that's a good one for amateurs and that's not as expensive. I agree with your son about sewing by hand. Remembering my start in this field, I even skipped my lessons at college to spend my time sewing. Fortunately, there are a lot of helpful sources such as https://ca.edubirdie.com/pay-for-homework which are saved me from exclusion. But better to not torture yourself with hard sewing and start using the machine. That's the reason they were created for!

SINGER is also a good one