Machine Questions

[Snpr9696]

Hello All,

Im a watch strap maker for a little while now and my order volume is starting to really pile up. While these orders are accounted for I would still like to make some stock for available purchase and this is where my concern lies. Hand stitching the straps takes what seems forever and I have been contiplating purchasing a Hand operated Stitching machine. The Tippmann Boss is the one that comes to mind for me. I would like something and operated for two reasons. More precise control over the stitch and quiet operation since most of my work is done later in the evening while my 4 year old is asleep.

Im just wondering what the leatherworkers opinions are on this method of thinking, the machine im looking into, as well as the desired results compaired to a hand sewn saddle stitch. I really enjoy the stacked offset look of a saddle stitch.

thank you for your time.

[billymac814]

What size thread are you using? The Boss works well with heavy thread through thick leather. You may be able to set it up to work with thin thread and leather but it wond be ideal. It wouldn't be my first second or third choice to sew watch straps. Also make no mistake about it the Boss is a Loud machine to operate, powered machines are much quieter.

Ill leave the recommendations to some other people as far as which machine would be best for you but I would think something with a roller foot on top would be good, you could get very close to the edge if need be and make very nice stitching.

[Snpr9696]

billy thank you as ive never thought of that.

im using mostly Veg tan 4/5 -5/6 oz, also oil tanned leather and Horweeen.

i use anywhere from 277-346 thread.

Could a less expensive machine do the trick. I also need something on the smaller end too. think home offce.

here is what im sewing.

[billymac814]

Those are a lot thicker than I was originally thinking. If you're using that thick of thread and leather the boss would be fine. Its definitely not a quiet option though. You could also use a 441 clone, a short arm version would be fine. There may be other options too like the 45k type machines but I'm not familiar with them so I can't recommend them but I think you can get those with a roller foot that would do very nice stitching on the front, you may get some marking on the back with those from the feed dogs though.

[Snpr9696]

I was leaning towards a hand operated machine for control reasons.

Also can I get that close tot he edge with the boss.

[billymac814]

The Boss is easy to control but so are the 441s with a servo and speed reducer.

You can get right up to the edge with either with no problem. The 441s are considerably quieter than the Boss is but the Boss is still a very capable machine, or at least mine was. I know some others who've had bad experiences with them.

[Snpr9696]

So is there a low cost option similar to the 441. Im looking to be around $500 -$1200. im still going to handstitch a lot but I will use this as well for making available inventory.

[billymac814]

Not really in the 441 category but check out those 45k type machines. Check out the techsew 3650 HD. That should suit your needs pretty well, it'll be on the higher end of your budget but there's really not much less that'll sew with that thick of thread.

[CowboyBob]

http://www.tolindsewmach.com/cb2500.html

Since you have a budget in mind we have the same machine but without reverse for $995.00 + shpg

[Greystone]

IMHO bump it up to the cb 2500 and make it work for you ,,,,,,

heavy stitch,,,,,and close the ends by hand a couple hand stitches,,,

BUT the,,,,

Cobra 3 or cb 3500 could be the bomb,,,,,,, just a thought db,,, worth considering for???????????

the next project or one you might turn away,,,,

, future investment.......... a little more but a lot of return options,,,,,,db