Juki 441 Clone Versus Adler 205-370

[wnkleather]

On which machine?

I read all the time about first time sewers buying a 441 clone and they learn to sew on the first day after setting it up. Others take longer to overcome newbie issues.

The medium duty 227 type machines are equally easy to learn to operate and are more flexible due to the large number of different presser feet and attachments available for them, which are not made for the 441s..

With any of these machines the most important lesson is to firmly hold back both threads before you begin to stitch. Don't let go until you either cross back over the first stitch, or have moved on about 3 stitches. The second most important lesson is to learn where every oil hole is and keep oil in them at all times. The third most important lesson is to not sew your fingers!

stitch

If you were asking about my Union Lockstitch Machine, I will gladly teach you how to operate and adjust it when you come to pick it up. A video camera that records audio would be a big help to you.

Some day I'm hoping to own a needle/awl as I see your stitch quality on top and bottom. I've also read that since they are square feed, stitch length does not change with thickness, among other benefits. Right now my shop is in my basement, and it seems a daunting task to get ANY needle/awl down there, much less someday get it back UP !!

Another issue is space - 3 sewing machines, bell skiver, hydraulic press, arbor press, cutting table, work tables......not a lot of room left down there. When my adult son wanted to move back home I said he could throw his mattress on the cutting table every night ! (just kidding) I have family in Brighton, MI., when I get over there (now that lake effect snow is done), I would love to see your Union in action.

[Blanket]

With any of these machines the most important lesson is to firmly hold back both threads before you begin to stitch. Don't let go until you either cross back over the first stitch, or have moved on about 3 stitches. The second most important lesson is to learn where every oil hole is and keep oil in them at all times. The third most important lesson is to not sew your fingers!

I cannot agree with you more especially the third lesson, I still don't know how I managed to sew my finger a while back but I will not do it again. LOL

[Gregg From Keystone Sewing]

Good stuff, most books call this item a 'tension wheel'.

[Frankqv]

I cannot agree with you more especially the third lesson, I still don't know how I managed to sew my finger a while back but I will not do it again. LOL

I have a Tippmann Areostith which I use exclusively for Holsters & Gun Belts. The areo has a pneumatic presser foot lift( it's up or down no in between)If you have your finger near the presser when you lift the foot ( like holding the top thread,to place under the presser once you raise it) ,it will drive your finger up through the needle, but you will only do that once,believe me.

[Colt W Knight]

I have a Tippmann Areostith which I use exclusively for Holsters & Gun Belts. The areo has a pneumatic presser foot lift( it's up or down no in between)If you have your finger near the presser when you lift the foot ( like holding the top thread,to place under the presser once you raise it) ,it will drive your finger up through the needle, but you will only do that once,believe me.

I did something similar removing some stuck thread from the bobbin area of my 206. needle went right through my index finger. wont be doing that again.