Cattleman Report post Posted January 20 So I really like the LL point machine needles. However, I'm having difficulty sourcing them in the 794 system. The very few places I have been able to find 794LL needles they are not available in anything smaller than a size 23. For most of what I do these larger needles are fine... But I am looking into doing some smaller more delicate items that should really be sewn with #92, if not #69, thread. Does anyone know of a reliable source to get 794LL needles in say sizes 18 to 25??? How about you @CowboyBob ??? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CowboyBob Report post Posted January 20 The smallest made & they are a S-point is size#21,I do stock the 7x3 in a round point in sizes #19,20,21,22,23 which some people use when using thinner thread.You might consider getting a smaller upholstery machine like an old Singer 111w or something & keep it setup for thin leather.It will take some adjusting on the Outlaw to get the tension right & they when you go back to thick thread you'll have to re-adjust. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Wizcrafts Report post Posted January 20 @Cattleman I have used my CB4500 with thin needles and thread and I'm here to tell you that it can be stressful. The first problem is the feed dog's hole. It is pretty huge and elongated to allow for #27 needle that move forward and backward. Thin or soft leather, or any other material, can get pushed down into that hole by the inside foot. The second problem is the needles themselves. A #18 or 19 needle in type 7x3 is very easily deflected by uneven layers. It doesn't take too much deflection to break a long, thin needle in leather. The third problem has to do with the tensioners that have very heavy springs meant to give plenty of tension to heavy thread that's being pulled up against its will into 3/4 inch of unfriendly to needles veg-tan leather. Short answer is, you will need to dumb down the machine to sew with thin thread and needles. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Cattleman Report post Posted January 20 (edited) @Wizcrafts and @CowboyBob Thank you both once again. The information and knowledge y'all freely share is priceless. I knew I would someday run into issue of needing a lighter duty machine... I guess that day is coming sooner than I expected. I suppose in the mean time I will need to make due with #138 thread or try S or R pointed needles for the very few ultra small items I want to make. Of course I can always break out the stitching pony and awl for these items... As small and few as they are it wouldnt be the end of the world to sew by hand a little. Many Thanks. Edited January 20 by Cattleman Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
