phototec Report post Posted August 31, 2014 Hi Ya-all, I'm new to the site but have been lurking for a few years now. I operate a in-home sign business and make 15oz vinyl banners of different sizes, that need to be hemmed around the edges, so I'm looking for a heavy duty sewing machine that will do the job. I have been told by others in the sign business that I need to get a WALKING FOOT machine with a SERVO motor to make things go easier for a novice like me. Been told that the Juki's are one of the best and considered the Juki 1541s, however it's just a little pricey for me just starting out. I have been looking for a used Juki for months on ebay and Craigslist, with no luck finding a good deal. What do you all think of the Highlead CG0618-1SC , I can get a new one with table and servo motor for $1,050.00? Or a NEW TACSEW T111-155 with table and servo motor for $899 delivered? I have used the wife's home sewing machine for years, so I know a little about sewing. Thanks for any info..... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TwinOaks Report post Posted August 31, 2014 The 618 has more clearance and the ability to use larger thread. If you'll ONLY use it for banners, then either should do just fine, but the issue is going to be just how much material you need to get under the foot. If it was up to me, I'd bite the bullet and get more machine to start with. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SkullCanyon Report post Posted August 31, 2014 I don't know about the Tacsew but I own the same Highlead and it has worked real well for me. I put a servo and speed reducer on mine and have complete control with it. Good luck. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
phototec Report post Posted August 31, 2014 (edited) Hi Kenny, I checked out your web page and custom moccasins, which are FANTASTIC (nice work)! Did you use the Highlead CG0618-1SC to make the custom moccasins on your web page? Ok, you have a servo motor (I know what that is), but what is the speed reducer and does it help? Thanks Edited August 31, 2014 by phototec Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SkullCanyon Report post Posted August 31, 2014 Hi Kenny, I checked out your web page and custom moccasins, which are FANTASTIC (nice work)! Did you use the Highlead CG0618-1SC to make the custom moccasins on your web page? Ok, you have a servo motor (I know what that is), but what is the speed reducer and does it help? Thanks Thanks for the compliment, I appreciate it. The moccasins are made with the Highlead, A lot of the finer art work I sew with a 31-20 Singer with a roller foot and 69 thread. I just got a Cowboy 4500 that I will now use to sew my bottom soles to the uppers as this is really thick material at around 1/2" and was pushing the limits off the Highlead. The speed reducer is an extra wheel and belt that you mount to your table and slows everything way down. You can find these through any of the sewing machine dealers on this forum. They are around $130.00 bucks or so. Initially I went with a servo only but even at the slowest speed it was still too fast for my liking. Personal preference really, I just like to sew slowly. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites