New To Working With Leather And Not Sure What Machine Would Be Best For My Needs. Any Input?

[amuckart]

Hi, Amuckart,where did you get your servo for $150 NZ Or Aus.

A New Zealand site called TradeMe http://www.trademe.co.nz about four years ago.

[Tejas]

If you decide on a Juki 1541, there is also a 1541S that has a safety clutch that protects the hook in case of a jam. The price of the S model is only about $100 more.

[Bonadrag12]

What's your definition of "medium weight"? 6oz or 18oz?

Sorry, I'm still a newbie. A medium weight garment weight cowhide that I probably wouldn't exceed 6oz. Something along the picture below.

I'm not totally dead set on a Juki. It's just what I'm familiar with since school has their straight stitch machines and they seem like they are pretty well made.

[Bonadrag12]

Hmmm. Light weight, soft lambskin leather. I sew that on my Singer 139w101 walking foot machine every now and then.

You are smart to want a Juki, as they are quality machines built in Japan. But, even better, some models of their walking foot machines have what they define as rectangular drive. This defines the motion performed by the feed dog, which I understand is user adjustable. By carefully balancing the motion and lift of the feeder, those Jukis can sew thinner and softer materials than typical upholstery class walking foot machines.

Here is a quote from the Juki web page for their DNU-1541 class machines.

Thanks! I may go check this one out! My main concern is that if like to be able to sew soft lamb skin but also have the option to grow into heavier cowhides like the photo I posted above.

[MG513]

Thanks! I may go check this one out! My main concern is that if like to be able to sew soft lamb skin but also have the option to grow into heavier cowhides like the photo I posted above.

Hey, what did you decide on?? I too am looking at the Ddl 8700 to see the uppers for sneakers until I can afford a post bed. Was wondering if this machine worked out for you!?

[DrmCa]

I routinely stitch everything from finest Mirabella and nubuck to heavy upholstery leather on a cylinder arm Pfaff 335 and recommend a cylinder arm.

If you buy a cylinder arm machine now, it will save you from spending more money once you realize you need it, and from the headache of finding space for a 2nd machine, or having to sell the flat bed one.