Help Needed For A Newby Looking To Purchase A Sewing Machine

[woodlandhide]

Hi

I really could do with some advise.

I am looking to purchase my first leather sewing machine.

I live in the UK and so may not have the selection of machines that you have in other countries.

I would like to purchase a machine that will offer as much flexibility as possible, enabling me to sew from 1.5mm thickness of leather together to 3.5mm together (is there a machine that can offer this )

I was told that the Juki 1541 unison, walking foot sewing machine would be the best one to purchase but at £2100 it would really stretch my budget.

I have seen a second hand sewing machine for sale, this is a Singer 331k105 walking foot sewing machine for considerably less money, but I was told by someone to avoid Singer sewing machines. They told me Singer are no longer in production and the machines are probably 25 -30 years old and if something goes wrong with the machine, I could end up in a situation where the part is no longer be available.

Could I please ask your opinions on this and could you please advise me if parts are a problem for these machines.

Although I do not want to spend heeps of money, I would prefer to purchase a machine that I could work on for many years. I do not want to keep having to upgrade my sewing machine, I would prefer to bite the bullet now and get the correct machine. However, I am hoping that that does not mean I have to necessarily buy brand new.

I would be so grateful if you could let me know the best options for me to consider and why ( both new and second hand ).

I plan to make bags, hip bags of thicker leather, and in the future biker vests. I would love to make tool rolls and saddle bags for motorcycles in the future also.....but I am thinking I would need a cylinder arm sewing machine for those... am I correct in thinking that?

Sadly I am not in a position to purchase more than 1 sewing machine and that is why I need to purchase a machine that offers maximum flexibility.

Many Thanks

[Wizcrafts]

Consew 206RB-5 is exactly what you need to sew 3 or 4 mm of leather. Actually, it can sew up to 10mm, with up to #138 bonded nylon/polyester thread.