Suitable machines

[WheelsGoRound]

Good morning folks! 

Im guessing there is a list compiled of suitable machines for certain uses on this extremely helpful website. 

Im afraid i haven't been able to find it / them yet and wondered if some kind soul could direct me to them? 

Im hunting for a machine with,

-compound / triple feed 

-reverse 

-larger size bottom spool / bobbin 

-heavy enough to sew medium weight leather, webbing and moderately thick seams in medium to heavy canvas 

 

Im open to flat bed or cylinder bed as i would build a well fitting bed to suit a cylinder if required. 

 

I am able to service and repair machines and build accessories / tools / machines so modifications are no problem. 

 

Many thanks for listening and any useful assistance in finding a list of machines to look out for. 

Cheers!! 

[AlZilla]

Here you go, the definitive guide on the entire Internet:

Come back once you have a few in mind and ask for current recommendations.

[WheelsGoRound]

Great!! 

Many thanks!!! 

[Tigweldor]

If you`re packing a thick wad and are not shy spending coin on good equipment - I would recommend an Adler 205.

If you have to be frugal - one of its´many clones from China.

Greetings

Hans

[dikman]

G'day mate, welcome to the forum. I'd say you're looking at the heavy end of the sewing machine spectrum, judging by what you want to sew. A 441 clone may be your best candidate as it will punch through 7/8" of almost anything! If fitted with a narrow feed plate/feed dog it will also handle reasonably  light work. These are cylinder arms, so more versatile, but can be fitted with a small flatbed attachment. Ok, that's my immediate first thoughts.

Being in Australia your options may be limited, particularly being in W.A. Do you want to buy new, do you have a budget in mind (most of us usually do)? I bought a Cowboy 4500, head only, from these people - https://sunvalleytrading.com.au/ - very good to deal with. I'm not saying you should use them because I don't know what options you have over there, but their website may give you some ideas. The CB3200 might also be a possibility.

If you're looking at buying used the most commonly available machines are generally upholstery-class, which are usually limited to 3/8" clearance under the feet and #138/M10 maximum thread size. Heavier duty machines are pretty rare on the used market here.

Just a couple of idle thoughts to ponder.

[dikman]

I forgot to mention that no, there is no list of machines as such. It has been mentioned before that a list would be nice but it would be a very big undertaking and so far no-one has come forward to attempt it. The afore-mentioned article by Wiz is probably the definitive guide at the moment.

[kgg]

On 5/3/2025 at 9:50 AM, WheelsGoRound said:

in finding a list of machines to look out for. 

I agree with @dikman there are just to many possible machines available from brand name machines to clones in both flatbed and cylinder bed configurations then add to that the class of machine capabilities. To further muddy the waters it also depends on where you live with Europe being more accustomed with machines like PFAFF and Adler type machines while North America tend towards the Juki type machines.

If you find a machine just post and I'm sure someone can give you an idea as to it's capabilities.

kgg