Parott1 Report post Posted October 2, 2015 I've been making dog leashes for a little over a year now and I would like to start making collars & harnesses It doesn't have to be anything fancy; just capable of sewing 12oz leather doubled and biothane? Ebay seems to have a lot of nice machines, but I would like some input on brands before I make the mistake of clicking the "buy it now" button Thank You Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
BondoBobCustomSaddles Report post Posted October 2, 2015 I use a CB4500 and certainly it will get the job done for you. I believe the other 441 clones will also serve you well. Bob Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Art Report post Posted October 2, 2015 My personal favorite is the Highlead GA2688-1 from Keystone Industrial with the big servo motor (brush type) and a speed reducer (those are extra cost items but really necessary for leatherwork). The CowBoy CB3500 or CB4500 from Bob Kovar at Toledo Industrial are also very good machines and for the $200 difference, I would get the CB4500. Both dealers are great to work with and fair. Try to buy from a dealer as opposed to eBay etc. as there really is a difference in how the machines are set-up and what equipment and parts are included. Art Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Big Sioux Saddlery Report post Posted October 3, 2015 I bought a CB4500 new a couple years ago SPECIFICALLY to sew Biothane. Wretched stuff that Biothane is, it's here to stay and some folks want it, so I had to change with the times:-) Turns out I use the 4500 for nearly all new construction leather and synthetics now except fine harness work. With the Biothane, you'll have to use about two needle sizes larger than you would for leather using the same size thread or you won't get the lock to pull into the material; instead it will just sit on the bottom. Don't be afraid of the CB4500, it's been a good machine for me so far, but I agree with Art. I would never, EVER one off ebay. Buy from a dealer. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wlg190861 Report post Posted October 3, 2015 I use cb4500 will work great for all your needs Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Parott1 Report post Posted February 8, 2016 Is Toledo Industrial still in business? I called a few times last week, left a message and also sent them an e-mail, and have yet to hear back from them. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Art Report post Posted February 8, 2016 Most definitely. Bob is most likely traveling to or from the Southwest Leather trade show in Prescott Az. A fair haul from Ohio. Art Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Parott1 Report post Posted February 8, 2016 Thanks Art! I'm always bad with timing haha. I'll just wait until I hear back from him. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites