Consew 206Rb-5 Vs Chandler 406Rb-1

[msdeluca]

I agree with the cylinder arm machine. I think the post machine would be more difficult and I believe the feed system can mark the leather (not 100% sure on that point).

Have you considered the Cowboy CB3200. Ryan at Neel's Saddlery set mine up for 277/207 top/bottom thread. A friend of mine wanted me to help him sew a bimini cover for his boat and after some research, I found that 92 is the recommended size thread for Sunbrella. Even Ryan told me that the CB3200 may have trouble, but I tried it anyway. I loosened up both top tensions, as well as, the top presser foot pressure tension and it sewed the Sunbrella beautifully down to two layers with the lock stitch nicely centered between the layers.

I've personally sewn with it using 92/92, 138/138, 207/207, 277/207, and 277/277 (top/bottom) thread. It will center the lockstitch in 5 oz leather.

I knew I'd never need the larger 441 clones like the Cowboy 4500, but I was hoping to get a machine that could handle 1/2" to 1/8" thicknesses, but was told that one machine probably wouldn't do it. So far the CB3200 has done it all. Couldn't be happier with the machine or Ryan at Neel's Saddlery.

Additional note: I've never had to adjust the bobbin case tension. When I adjust the top tensions, I try to adjust both top tensioners the same amount. I'll back both screws out all the way, then turn them in equally until the lockstitch centers in the material.

I have additional info regarding the CB3200 on my blog at www.conceptleather.blogspot.com.

Hope this helps.

Mike

Edited December 6, 2014 by msdeluca

[TwinOaks]

Look into a consew 227 or clone. It is effectively the sewing capability of a 205/206 but in a cylinder arm machine. I don't know if anyone is offering a flat bed for it, but I'm sure it could be built. The Cowboy 2700 is a clone of the 227, and can be set up for leather before shipping.

[Tramps Leatherworking]

I agree with Mike --- I have a Consew 227r2, it is a very nice machine... You might check with the folks at Nick-O-Sew, they were looking into designing a platform attachment specifically for the Consew 227...

[Colt W Knight]

Flat bed is definitely a disadvantage if you plan to sew anything that isn't flat.

[cheriva]

Mike thank you for all of the useful information you provided. Funny you should mention the Cowboy machines, as I was researching them last night. I am set on a cylinder arm machine and will take a look at the information you have on your blog. Also thanks for the top tension adjustment advice. I am a little intimidated by my Cobra and although I turn the two top tensions the same each time, I am always worried I will get things out of sync. Your method would resolve that. I think I am narrowed down to Consew or Cowboy, I just need to know if the 277/2700 would be the best fit in-between my Elna and Cobra Class 4, or if I would need to step up to the 3200 or Consew equivalent. I think I will pose those questions to each distributor and see what they come back with. Really appreciate your input!

[cheriva]

Thanks MIke/Twin Oaks and Tramp for the info. I was trying to figure out the cylinder arm equivalent to the 205/206, so you answered my question! I will check at Nick-O-Sew as the platform is pretty important for me so I can utilize the machine as a flat bed for my home décor projects. As a "newbie" I sometimes don't even know what questions to ask, so all of the information provided in these forums has been invaluable to me. Thanks to everyone who contributes with their experience and knowledge!

[TwinOaks]

glad to help

[Tramps Leatherworking]

I'm glad we could help --- good luck with your choice...

[Geneva]

There is a solution for not being able to sew with the 207 thread. Take the steel plate off of the bobbin have someone mill .30 from underneath and increase the clearance for the thread above bobbin case. Or grind it out with a hand grinder just polish it when you are finished.

[Colt W Knight]

.3?