What Machine Would Be Best For Making These....

[mgranato]

I've started making these exotic skinned (mainly reptile) dress belts, and a few of the same in wallets. The stitching will basically go through 4oz of veg tan/latigo and then the skin (3oz for the croc would be the thickest). An 18 needle with #69 thread is what I've been using so far on an old Brother (without walking foot). I'm learning the hard way that a walking foot system is a must as the skins get softer and stickier. I've got no plans for anything other than these types of belts/wallets, so I'm not looking to handle thick amounts of leather. I've been working with leather for less than a month now, but am having a blast thanks to the incredible resources on this site.

[Wizcrafts]

This a is job for a Consew 206RB-5 flatbed, or a cylinder arm 227R type machine. Both are medium duty sewing machines, with triple feed and 1/4 inch wide feed dogs. Throw in an edge guide, or use spring edge guide presser feet and you have the best machine for these belts.

I would recommend getting a machine with a servo motor, unless you are good at feathering the clutch.

[Bobby hdflame]

I have a Highlead GC0618-1SC and have been using it for a couple of years with no problems. It would sew what you're talking about with no problems. It is now on sale where I got mine:

http://store.keysew.com/highlead-gc128-b-d3-with-assembled-stand

If I were specializing in belts, I would get a roller edge guide. It would really work good for belts, guitar straps, or rifle slings. The one I have flips out of the way when I'm not using it, and I paid less than $10 for it. I think it was about 6 or 7 bucks. Money well spent.

There are a lot of machines that will do what you want, I just thought I'd let you know what I have. I bought mine after reading a lot of good reviews on that machine over on the upholstery forum.

http://get-up-and-go.com/upholstery-forum/index.php?PHPSESSID=usopakrknjui5udcqmpg23igd6&board=1.0

Do a search on different machines that you're interested in and you'll find a lot of different suggestions. Most good compound feed walking foot machines will work on the weight of material you're talking about. I'm sewing some heavier weight latigo 9/10 oz harness leather with mine now. It will sew it, but really isn't designed to. I've got a Cobra Class 4 on order now. Can't wait!

Good luck.