Members Radam Posted 10 hours ago Members Report Posted 10 hours ago Hi y'all, Long time reader, first time poster. I've been exploring leather crafting over the last couple years and have found a lot of joy in making things. One thing that has NOT brought me joy, however, is hand stitching, especially when it comes to belts, straps, etc. To that end, and because I want to make things at a more rapid pace for selling, I'm looking into getting my first leather sewing machine. Uses: I'm wanting to find a machine that can effectively sew belts, watch straps, guitar straps, bags, sheaths, keychains, and wallets. I imagine I'll most often be working with two or three layers of 8oz veg tan, but I'd like the option to sew thinner/thicker options. Of course one machine can't do it all, but versatility is very desirable to me at the moment. I imagine 3/8" or 1/2" clearance would likely be enough for me. Dealers: I'm located in the Portland, OR area, and would love to visit a dealership to try out some machines (vs. a relatively blind online buy). I've been looking on FB Marketplace for some used options, and it seems like there's a very knowledgeable mechanic/dealer in Vancouver, WA just over the river, but if you have any suggestions of persons/companies to look into locally (or even a little further away) I'd love to hear them. I'm open to buying used from a reputable seller, but don't trust my own knowledge to not get a lemon from someone random. Budget/Machines of Interest: My ideal budget would be about $2000 or less, though there's a little flexibility there. Currently, some machines I've focused on/looked into include: - Cowboy 3200 - Juki DNU-1541S - Cobra Class 4 Do any of y'all have any feedback on either those machines being well-suited for my needs, or other suggestions beyond those I've mentioned? From what I've read, it sounds like a triple feed machine would be ideal for my needs, but if that's incorrect, I'd love to hear other thoughts. I'd also prefer to have a servo motor, though I know many options with a clutch motor can be upgraded. To be honest, I'm a bit uneducated on the universes of sewing machines in general/machine needles/thread, but I've been very grateful for the information folks have shared on this site in all regards. I'd love to learn from more of your experience/wisdom. Best wishes, Adam Quote
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