Consew 206Rb-5

[kwalk20]

Hello y'all! I'm new to this forum and found this lovely site searching for information on leather sewing machines. You all have a wealth of information and I appreciate everyone for sharing your knowledge. I have learned so much already. I'm brand spanking new to the industrial sewing machine market, except I had a Sailrite and realized it just wasn't what I thought so I'm on the hunt. I'm overwhelmed with with all of the knowledge shared here, but from what I can see, it seems like the Consew 206RB-5 will be what I am aimimg for.(??)

I make leather bags and jackets and vests (and will probably venture to other things). Some of my purses have fabric incorporated, but sometimes I have pretty thick areas because on certain ones the straps are sandwiched between the two sides. Would you say the Consew is a good fit because I have found a new one for a pretty good deal?

Also I wanted to know from anyone that has that model what have you noticed regarding the quality of the machine since it is now made in China? How does it compare to the other ones? Does it make a difference in the function or are there any problems/concerns I should be aware of?

Edited November 13, 2015 by kwalk20

[Colt W Knight]

The consew 206 rb5 is an excellent machine with lots of accessories and parts available. I use mine to sew up to 3/8" veg tan leather and I also use it to make leather purses and canvas bags.

However, it is a flat bed machine, so you are limited on construction and sewing larger complex items is difficult. I think you would be happier with a cylinder arm walking foot machine. I believe the Consews 227 is the cylinder arm equivalent. That cylinder arm gives you more freedom to sew bags and coats, and vests.

[kwalk20]

Thank you for the info. I thought about a cylinder machine, but I can't wrap my head around it just yet. I'm so used to sewing flat and I know I can sew straighter on a flatbed, but I do see the usefulness of what the cylinder can do. I also have to think about comfort. I have some damage in my arms from a car accident, and I will need to be able to keep my arms supported. Have you found it to be too difficult making your purses on a flatbed or do you use the cylinder as well? I know there will be tight spots, but are they very difficult to get by?

[Colt W Knight]

Thank you for the info. I thought about a cylinder machine, but I can't wrap my head around it just yet. I'm so used to sewing flat and I know I can sew straighter on a flatbed, but I do see the usefulness of what the cylinder can do. I also have to think about comfort. I have some damage in my arms from a car accident, and I will need to be able to keep my arms supported. Have you found it to be too difficult making your purses on a flatbed or do you use the cylinder as well? I know there will be tight spots, but are they very difficult to get by?

An inexpensive flatbed attachment will turn the cylinder arm into a flat bed machine, and you can take it off for those hard to reach places.

I made all of these on my consew 206. If I were buying a brand new machine, I would certainly buy a cylinder arm machine. I bought mine used for a good deal, so I can live with the struggle.