Choosing my machine.

[dikman]

Joanna, I would go for the Seiko if money permits (if you're like me it usually doesn't!) as from everything I've read they're a very good machine, but then the Consew's also have a pretty good rep. One thing to keep in mind is that they probably come with clutch motors and most people who are starting out can find them difficult to master if you want slow speed. For that you'll need a servo motor and should allow $$ for that.

[Joanna Hamberg]

dikman - Thank you, good point! I should have said that they all come with a servo motor vs clutch included in the price, (except maybe the Consew - not sure on that one), plus I have a fairly (only a month  or two) new from my current machine one I can use if needed.

[dikman]

Sounds like you've got that part sorted then. I had a chance at buying a Seiko (same model) some time ago. It was interstate, which meant overnight each way but it was a very good deal. Just as I was about to leave I came across the Singer 166 and Pfaff 335 locally, also at good prices, so I let the Seiko go. I wish now that I'd bought it too!

[graywolf]

Since I am on about the same quest, I will give you my opinion. Understand that my needs are somewhat different than most of the people here (Canvas tents, auto upholstery, and maybe some leather), so my opinion is based upon that. Seems to be close to your needs.

I am going to assume that all the machines are with table and a servo motor.

The Juki is pretty high, my local (Well 50 miles) dealer has the 1541S for $1600, but he wants $150 to deliver it: so maybe a fair price at your front door. But they can be had cheaper than either of those prices by a couple of hundred bucks, but then if you have a problem you have to pay shipping back and forth to get it fixed.

The Seiko set up and at your front door is a fair price.

The Consew, may or may not be a deal, depending on condition and model. A 206RB is old and lacking handy features. I believe even the current 206RB-5 came out about 10 years ago, so could be that old. Good condition, setup and at your door, if it has at least the reverse, I would buy it.

All of them should do what you need them to do.

 

 

[mike6642]

I bought the cowboy 227 because the leather I work with is less then half inch and I do canvass, the main reasons is the dealer is 5 miles away and being that I am new to sewing that was the big plus. The machine works great and the dealer spent 2 hours showing me how to use the machine. Good warranty and I don't have to ship a 80 pound machine in if the machine needs repaired