Finding A Sewing Machine

[bwillielv]

Like a lot of people I am new to leather working and would like to get a sewing machine. Unfortunately my wife isn't going to let me spend 1k or more for a machine.

I am trolling around craigslist, ebay and garage sales trying to find something that would work. I am make fire shields and am currently hand sewing two 7-9 ounce veg tanned pieces together.

Does anyone know of a machine I could pick up rather inexpensively that would be capable of sewing this?

Thanks

Brian

[Ferg]

I think you knew the answer to your question before you asked it. LOL

You would need a 441 clone at the least. Cowboy, Consew, etc. Expect to pay no less than $1500 to $2500 for a machine that will likely outlast you.

Some folks have good luck on CL & E-Bay. I personally bought one machine from a so-called reputable E-Bay dealer. The machine was okay but any further service from them simply cost me more money and much aggravation.

Please tell your wife you need the machine to make some money with your craft, then start saving your pennies. You will be glad you did.

ferg

[bwillielv]

Hey thanks, yeah I think I did know my own answer, lol. What models of consew would be able to do this?

[Wizcrafts]

If you hand stab the holes through 5/16" veg with your stitching awl, you'll understand how powerful a machine would need to be to do the same with just the needle. Not only must the machine punch through the leather, it must also hold it down as the knotted threads get pulled up inside the layers.

You are probably using 4 to 6 cord waxed linen thread now. Most machines don't do well with waxed thread, so we use bonded nylon or bonded polyester instead. The closest equivalent sizes of bonded thread would be #277 or #346. Only the biggest stitchers can properly handle these sizes of thread, while still forming a well positioned lockstitch and holding down the leather as the needle ascends. Ferg accurately described the solution.

You are probably not going to find such a machine on Craigslist, or eBay, unless it is a Juki 441, Adler 205, or clone. We have dealers who support the LWN forums and they have ad banners at the top of every page. Reloading a page loads a new set of banners. The big three represented here are Cowboy, Cobra and Techsew.

I'm not sure if Consew produces a 441 clone. If they do, it may not be setup as a leather sewing machine. Why bother when the three brands I mentioned are already available, set up for leather and properly equipped to do so?

[bwillielv]

Thanks for the reply.

I have seen the Cowboy in a youtube video I think. It looked pretty awesome. I guess the thing to do would be try and sell some of the work the way I currently do it and save up for a good machine.

Any specific models I should be looking at for what I am wanting to do? Also, will the bigger machines be able to do smaller projects like belts and upholstery? I hope to one day do custom motorcycle seats. Once my leather working gets better.

[Ferg]

Ideally, you need two machines to do what you suggest. If you feel you can make some money with what you are doing and maybe throw in some belts of at least 7 or 8 oz leather, buy a Cowboy 4500 or similar. As Wiz said, there are at least three great machines represented on this forum. You won't go wrong with either of them. Visit the shop of the one closest to you and do take your wife. I think she will be as amazed at the machines as you.

Good luck and save your pennies.

ferg