iowafarmgirl Report post Posted February 17, 2014 Hello. Im new to Leatherworker.net and somewhat new to the sewing leather trade. Im posting here because I just picked up what I hope to be my next leather sewing machine (which was a "barn find"). The brass plate with the model # is gone. The problem is, without properly identifying it, Im afraid I will not be able to order proper parts such as needle, bobbin, belt, manual..... Ive been doing quite of a bit of internet searching and phone calls and this is what I've been able to find: Its a Singer. Class 31. Built beginning 09/1916. It's an industrial sewer. It has a walking foot. But that's about it. What I was hoping to find out, from the good and knowledgable people here, is: Which model 31? 31-15, 31-17, 31-18.... Belt size? What needle size does it take or more importantly what needle size can I use on this machine for sewing hair-on-hide leather? What size thread and bobbin type work best for this machine? I know that once I find out exactly which model 31 it is, I can find the manual for it and the answers to these questions. Ideally, I'd like to use this machine for sewing leather / hair-on-hide handbags, clutches and small accessories. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CowboyBob Report post Posted February 17, 2014 That is a 31-19 & any manual for a 31 would work,it takes the 16x2 leather needle can use #92 or #138 thread. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
iowafarmgirl Report post Posted February 17, 2014 Mr Kovar... thank you for responding to my post. Your information is greatly appreciated and helpful. If you don't mind me asking, what about the machine brings you the conclusion that it is a 31-19? Please don't take offense to my question, in no way am I questioning your experience or expertise in industrial sewers. Im just curious about what sets this machine apart from, let's say, a 31-15 or a 31-17? Do you have any information on belt size and bobbin type? Thank you. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CowboyBob Report post Posted February 17, 2014 It is a 31-19 because it has the walking feet on it,the other ones just have a roller or flat foot.It was made for sewing multiple plies of lightweight canvas & leather. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
iowafarmgirl Report post Posted February 17, 2014 Thank you for the information. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
