Leather Sewing Machine That Can Handle #207 For $1K? Does This Exist?

[arocco]

Hello Fellow Leatherworkers,

I'm looking for a machine for stitching my leather watch straps and my budget is pretty small. About $1,000. I'm looking for preferably a flatbed machine as I already have a table and servo motor, but the machine I currently stitch on can't handle larger thread.

Any direction or help would be highly appreciated. I love the Consew 206RB but it appears that machine just can't handle anything more than #138 thread.

I know all about the 441 clones out there, the cowboy and cobras and unfortunately I just can't muster enough funds to splurge on one of those yet.

Any suggestions of machines to look for (used obviously) or new developments in this market?

[Constabulary]

Not sure what other 111 type machines can handle but my Singer 111G156 can handle 207 (size 15 Metric) thread w/o problems with a 23 (160 metric) size needle. There should be some good used machines out there. Maybe you should contact a local dealer or one of the dealers who have a banner on top of this website.

[SARK9]

I have a Consew 206-RB5 which handles T-210/207 thread without issues. I've run 207 top and bottom on a couple of my Juki LU-563's as well. I'd say the Consew gets the nod for slightly more foot lift, stitch length and no thread tail holding, the Juki wins for bobbin capacity. Both are capable.

-DC

Edited September 25, 2014 by SARK9

[arocco]

DC you think the 206RB-5 can handle 207 all day erry day?

[SARK9]

210 is definitely max for it, but not having done it all day every day myself, I'm not qualified to answer that one. I suspect it depends on *what* you are sewing with the 210 thread. Nothing seems the slightest bit strained when I use it, but YMMV.

-DC

[Wizcrafts]

My thinking on this is if the #207 thread you use is soft, rather than stiff, you'll have better luck with it. This means probably not using black on top all the time, unless you get a batch that does not act like a coil spring. You might want to try some of the bonded polyester that Campbell Randall sells. I have a couple spools in black and white and the black is definitely softer than any of my bonded nylon thread.

[Frankqv]

I recently put together a 153w ,once I got the right needles,138/207' bottom,top,sews like a dream. The table the fella threw in with the machine already had a speed reducer. Added a servo,and I was off and sewing. I've only sewed 207 since I've had it,could it do it day in and day out. It's 50+ years old and it sews effortlessly !I would say keep it lubed should not be a problem