Singer Model 66

[jdwintx]

I have an old treadle Singer Model 66 that I inherited from my grandmother, the machine is in perfect working order and I was wondering if this machine is good for sewing leather and if so, to what weight. Most of the items I read online indicate that if you can shove it under the foot, you can sew it on this machine but not being a person who has sewing experience I thought I would ask.

[TwinOaks]

Hi Jd,

I just recently got one of those! Despite popular myth, the "anything under the foot" isn't exactly true. Sure it'll punch holes in it, but there's sewing, then there's Sewing.

One of the other members here (ryano) helped me out with mine, so look for his posts as well as posts by Art. Art is the sewing machine guru.

As for weights....well, mine topped out at about 10oz. Like, it wouldn't get all the way through the bottom piece, even with leather needles. Maybe it's just my machine..

Thread size is one of the biggest issues. I've found (with help) that size 46 is about the largest the bobbin will take. Where this relates to leather is that skinny thread looks really funny on thick leather. So, generally speaking, wallets, zippers, lightweight purses, etc., are fine on the 66, but you won't be sewing holsters, belts, or saddles with it.

Hope that helps,

You can also go over to the "leather sewing machines" subforum on here and do a search (upper right corner of the window) and type in "singer 66"...be sure to include the quote marks.

Edited April 25, 2009 by TwinOaks

[jdwintx]

Great thanks, that's good information to know. Since I predominately want to sew heavy motorcycle saddlebags, toolbags, seats, etc.. (a cottage industry, not retail) what models of these older machines would folks on the forum recommend? I see a huge amount of older Singers, etc. on e-bay and craigslist that are reasonably priced and would love to know what would work.

As far as thread/needle size what should I be looking for if I'm sewing 8-10oz veg tan (2 layers).

[TwinOaks]

For that weight leather, NONE of the old singers on ebay are appropriate....except maybe a 29- , or a 153. And even then, you'll be well into several hundred dollars.

There's more advice than I could type in several days over in the sewing machine forum, but here's the quick version: You'll want a cylinder arm machine because it lets you work in tight spots. Needle feed is great because you can work with grain out and not chew it up with the feed dogs.

Look to spend somewhere around $2000 for a NEW machine, and get it from a reputable distributor. Make sure it's set up for leather. Most of the large machines are the same as what's run in factories at high speed. You need slower speed and more torque. Several distributors are active on the forum, and have earned their trustworth reputations.

Thread suggestions for that weight leather should be in the 207-277 range. That gives a good look, but I don't suppose anyone would be upset about running 136 in the bobbin and 207 on top.

Thread is the biggest issue with the older machines. The won't take the bigger threads in the bobbins, nor handle a large enough needle.

[kevinhopkins]

Hi... I just wanted to endorse what Twinoaks said.... If at all possible, buy a new one. One with a servo motor and a speed reducer. I've sold more new machines to people that had bought a used one on ebay, than I can count. Just make sure you're comfortable with the person that you buy it from, because they will be your lifeline.

Happy sewing!

Kevin

For that weight leather, NONE of the old singers on ebay are appropriate....except maybe a 29- , or a 153. And even then, you'll be well into several hundred dollars.

There's more advice than I could type in several days over in the sewing machine forum, but here's the quick version: You'll want a cylinder arm machine because it lets you work in tight spots. Needle feed is great because you can work with grain out and not chew it up with the feed dogs.

Look to spend somewhere around $2000 for a NEW machine, and get it from a reputable distributor. Make sure it's set up for leather. Most of the large machines are the same as what's run in factories at high speed. You need slower speed and more torque. Several distributors are active on the forum, and have earned their trustworth reputations.

Thread suggestions for that weight leather should be in the 207-277 range. That gives a good look, but I don't suppose anyone would be upset about running 136 in the bobbin and 207 on top.

That was quick, concise, and very good advise!

Kevin

Thread is the biggest issue with the older machines. The won't take the bigger threads in the bobbins, nor handle a large enough needle.