littlewalnut Report post Posted January 23, 2015 Hello, I am a new hobbyist hoping to work with biothane and leather products for equine applications. I am looking to purchase a walking foot machine, and I have found an Adler machine (167-GK-373) locally that I truly like. I was wondering if I could ask for the community’s opinion on the price of the machine. It has a standard motor, I would need to upgrade it to a serv pro, however, the motor is incredibly silent and brand new. The machine has been completely refurbished and serviced by a local sewing machine shop, and is being sold by the shop. The machine has the original table which is in moderate condition, minimal rust/wear, no stickers, and runs great, according to my ignorant newbie opinion. I was able to sew thick leather on the machine, and the gentleman was delightfully helpful and showed me the ropes of the machine. I was able to thread it, wind the bobbin, and he was able to answer any question I had. He also happens to live only a few miles from my home and would be more than willing to make house calls if needed. All in all, I had a fabulous experience trying out the machine and even though it is out of my budget I am seriously considering purchasing the machine. The machine is an Adler 167-GK-373, and priced at $1,200. I would like to try and talk him down to $1,000, however, I believe that having access to such an experienced workman is nearly worth just paying the asking price. I was wondering if this was a good price for such a nice machine and one I hope to use and enjoy for years to come. I went to look at a Singer 211, and fell in love with a Rolls Royce. Go figure! Thanks Y'all! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Big Sioux Saddlery Report post Posted January 23, 2015 I don't know anything about this model's capabilities, but in doing a google search for images, I see it is a flatbed machine. If you are planning on making tack and strap goods, you'd be much happier with a cylinder arm machine. A flatbed machine just can't get next to a buckle and into tight areas like a cylinder arm. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
littlewalnut Report post Posted January 23, 2015 I don't know anything about this model's capabilities, but in doing a google search for images, I see it is a flatbed machine. If you are planning on making tack and strap goods, you'd be much happier with a cylinder arm machine. A flatbed machine just can't get next to a buckle and into tight areas like a cylinder arm. I just did a quick google, and it seems like cylinder arm machines are much more expensive than standard walking foot machines. Would a flatbed machine get me started in the craft, or should I wait and save for the more expensive cylinder arm machine? I appreciate the advice, as I truly know very little about the craft. I am coming from a yarn/fiber/spinning background. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Big Sioux Saddlery Report post Posted January 23, 2015 Yes cylinder arm machines are more expensive because they're more machine. A flatbed machine will get you started if you want to do flatwork. If you try to do tack and strap goods on a flatbed machine all it will get you is frustration and poor work. If you have very little leather experience and can only afford the flatbed machine (which I think you should be able to get for about $650, not the $1200, although having it professionally set up and that dealer close to you for product support IS worth something) plan on doing things that you CAN sew on that machine. Wallets, chaps, etc. Just my opinion, mind you, but I have over 35 years of experience making sewing machine buying mistakes:-) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
littlewalnut Report post Posted January 24, 2015 Thank you for the outstanding advice! I ended up buying the machine, but will be in the market for a cylinder arm in the next few months. I figure, this will let me learn how to use and properly maintain a machine before jumping into a very expensive machine. It will also let me practice and learn the basics of sewing leather, before I jump into creating products in which stability and reliability is paramount (bridles, halters, etc…). I will definitely be in the market to buy a cylinder arm machine very shortly, do you have any brand suggestions? I wont be able to look at a new machine, and will be buying used or well used. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
