DavidP Report post Posted November 16, 2015 Hello, I have been looking and cannot find anything similar to my problem. I just acquired a Landis 12K for my new hobby or side business of boot repair. The gentleman I purchased it from was using it prior to me picking it up. My issue is that I have broken 4 awl tips and bent or broken 3 needles since getting it home. It seems difficult for me to get the first stitch started on a new pair of leather soles. I have read the manual and maintenance books and everything appears to be in order. Can the thickness and hardness of the leather be the issue? I am using Live Oak Prime Giant 12-up for soles. Up to this point I have hand sewn the soles so I was pretty excited to get this stitcher. Any help would be great. Thanks in advance. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DrmCa Report post Posted November 17, 2015 I can only suggest posting in the sewing machines section where there's more traffic for these sorts of questions Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Art Report post Posted November 17, 2015 The leather is moving at an inappropriate time. Pull it through by hand and see what's happening. If there is a groove opener on the needle plate, is it sharp and properly aligned. Art Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DavidP Report post Posted November 18, 2015 The machine works fine when moved by hand and when no shoe on the rest. I can run it all day long when it is empty. I have come to the conclusion it is just operator error and inexperience. I think I might be pushing the boot too hard into throat of machine, as it is the stitches are only about an 1/8 inch from outside edge of leather. I am going to play around with different amounts of pressure holding a boot in place. As for the groover, it was not pushed down to the level of the leather. I will get it lowered and give it a try. Thanks for your help. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jess Jones Report post Posted December 5, 2015 (edited) Yes. you are pushing too hard. Let the machine do the work and do not control it or push. Just guide thats it. When needles break thats a clear indication on this Landis. Be very careful with this. Im not a safety sally but a boot maker on youtube was talking about this in a video and she caught shrapnel to the throat. Edited December 5, 2015 by Jess Jones Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
