What sewing machine do I need?

[BUBBA]

I want to start making headstalls and western tack, as well dayplanners, spur straps etc. What is an example of a sewing machine that will sew heavy 10oz.+ leather. I need to find a used machine. How much would one of these machines cost used? Would anyone know where I can find one. Thanks

[neelsaddlery]

I would recommend buying a used machine that is relatively current, and one in which there are still parts readily available. I have found in the past there were many good older machines for doing the items that you described, like the Adler 105, the Adler 205-64 and many others, but it is getting harder and harder to get parts for these older machines.

The big problem I always find with older machines is the specialty parts that you can sometimes need. A main shaft bearing, a crank or connecting rod, a special shoulder screw, or whatnot. It always seems that these machine specific parts are the first to be discontinued with the older machines, and if the manufacturer quits making them, then where do you go to get them?

If you plan to sew heavy horse tack, get a machine that is up to the task. I would recommend an oscillating hook machine. The rotary style hook machines won't handle the heavy thread.

I like machines like the Ferdco Pro 440 Baby Bull for sewing horse tack, as you can get these machines for relatively low cost used, and they do a plenty good enough job for this task. I am just guessing, but I think you should be able to get one of these used for around $800.00-$900.00 or so if you look around a bit. There are plenty of places that offer parts for this machine too.

The other machines in the "step up" class will cost quite a bit more, and while they do offer a lot more in the way of features, that will come with a heavier price tag. "Step-up" machines would be the Artisan Toro 3000, the Cobra Class 3, the Cowboy Model 441 short arm (also called the 205-270 on the website) and the Ferdco Pro 2020.

All of the above machines are based on the Juki 441 style.

Ryan O. Neel

[Art]

Hi Bubba,

I don't generally recommend nubies going out into the used market for several reasons. One reason is that there is no real support available other than a few forums like this. Another reason is that you can get stuck with a bad machine or deal; remember that the person selling has every reason to sell it to you, even if it doesn't fit you. It is also very easy to pass-up a great deal that may cost a few bucks more because it is something you aren't aware of.

That being said, there is a swap board on the Ferdco website. Everything seems to me to be overpriced there by about 25% (just my opinion), a lot of OBO though, so haggling may be the norm. You want something fairly current so there are parts available. An ASE No.9 at a good price (I bought mine for $1100) would be a find, Luberto's can still find or make parts for one and the later ones were circa 1990s. I would prefer to have a needle feed jump or walking foot machine for harness, instead of the drop feed only, but you pay more for that, a considerable amount more, because it is better.

The used market is always tough, the opportunity to overpay is great, the rewards can be great also, it is just knowing the value, don't fixate on anything, don't pay full price for anything, especially if it has been sitting there a while.

Art

I want to start making headstalls and western tack, as well dayplanners, spur straps etc. What is an example of a sewing machine that will sew heavy 10oz.+ leather. I need to find a used machine. How much would one of these machines cost used? Would anyone know where I can find one. Thanks