Entry Level Machine?

[icor1031]

I want to sew leather belts, and possibly holsters - but if holsters require a much more expensive machine, I'll skip on those.

I found this machine on Amazon, is it a good option?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001I1IZ2K?ref_=pe_623860_70668520

Thanks for your advice.

[dirtclod]

That's a home machine. You don't want it.

[icor1031]

Any suggestions?

[SLudlow]

In short, no. I personally have found this thread to be very helpful is sparsing out exactly what sort of "entry level" machine might be used for relatively lightweight leatherwork, and where a more powerful machine might be useful.

I'm no expert, and I'm sure the more experienced folks will give more direct input. For an entry level machine, I would advise that you should expect to spend at least a grand.

http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=53374

[Constabulary]

Maybe the Video in this thread will help you:

http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=49979&hl=video

[icor1031]

It looks like I'll have to spend abount $1,600, if I want one that's decent and can do circular sewing.

$1,200 for straight sewing.

That will take a while Thanks.

Edited February 21, 2014 by icor1031

[Constabulary]

look for a used one... Dealers often offer used machines as well or just check Craigslist but when you are new to this buying from a dealer is probably the better option for you.

[icor1031]

look for a used one... Dealers often offer used machines as well or just check Craigslist but when you are new to this buying from a dealer is probably the better option for you.

Where do I find dealers?

[SLudlow]

They run ads at the top of the page. All are really a pleasure to deal with.

Before sending you their way, what sort of leather belts are you doing? How long have you been working on things? What are you looking to use the machine for specifically?

Edited February 21, 2014 by SLudlow

[icor1031]

They run ads at the top of the page. All are really a pleasure to deal with.

Before sending you their way, what sort of leather belts are you doing? How long have you been working on things? What are you looking to use the machine for specifically?

I am new to leather work. I've attempted a holster a few times, and that's about the end of my experience.

The belts I want to make are for dress clothing, fairly thick, and hopefully full grain.

The Primary purpose for the machine is to add stitching near the outside of the belt, along the entire length - for aesthetics.

I may also use it to attach the front side and back side of formed leather together, for a holster. But probably not, I prefer working with Kydex.

Edited February 21, 2014 by icor1031

[Constabulary]

where are you located? Maybe one of the well known dealers is close to you.

[icor1031]

where are you located? Maybe one of the well known dealers is close to you.

South west South Dakota.

Edited February 21, 2014 by icor1031

[Anne Bonnys Locker]

I would suggest you talk to someone like Bob at Toledo as he is going to sell you what you need based on your requirements. Same goes for all of the dealers who participate here because if you are not happy then we are the people you are going to tell!

There are many sewing machine dealers but very few specialise in leather.

[BDAZ]

I started off with a Singer version of that Janome and with a leather needle and walking foot accessory, it IS useful for somethings including stitching light weight veg tanned and garment leathers. You are limited to home sewing threads and needles and the stitch is far from decorative.

I recently purchased the Cowboy 3200 from Bob Kovar at Toledo and it has changed my life. Attached is a picture of a recent comission for a guitar strap made on the 3200.

If you can't afford a good used walking foot machine that won't mar the leather then hand stitching is in your future. Don't waste your money on anything less.

Cya!

Bob

Edited February 27, 2014 by BDAZ