Sewing Machine conundrum

[Matt S]

3 hours ago, Uwe said:

Just for the record and to keep rumors from spreading, the CB3200 is NOT a clone of the Adler 205. The CB-3200 is a well-loved mutt that incorporates some elements of the Juki TSC-441 design along with other design elements of undetermined lineage. No Adler 205 plans were harmed in the making of the CB3200. The barrel hook may be interchangeable, but that's about it.

Hi Uwe, thanks for the correction!

[dikman]

If you know you are going to have a market for whatever you make then just get a suitable electric machine from the start. It will be the most cost-effective solution in the long run and will likely save you some grief down the track . The most important thing, however, is to figure out exactly what you're likely to be making, as this will determine the size (and cost) of a suitable machine. If you're going to make western-style holsters you will need a heavy-duty machine.

[garypl]

I agree with going for an electric machine, but if you want a Boss, there is one for sale on Craigslist - here is the link: https://atlanta.craigslist.org/atl/tls/d/leather-sewing-machine/6651491765.html  Asking $750 - located on the SC / GA border in Elberton

Gary

[SolarLeatherMachines]

11 hours ago, Uwe said:

Then a proper motorized sewing machine should appear to be a bargain, not "crazy expensive."

Exactly.  Not to mention that an modern industrial machine will hold its value quite well.  

[CowboyBob]

I'll never forget the look on a longtime Boss users face after he  sewed his knife sheath on the CB4500.The ones he had a problem with is almost 5/8" thick @ the top down to 5/16" at the tip.The sample he sewed on his Boss looked good until he came up from the tip,since it was thicker towards the top the stitch length shortened by almost 1/2.When he sewed on the CB4500 & looked at it he said I'll take it,traded the Boss in & haven't heard from him since. I'm not trying to knock the Boss but just wanted to let people know it helps to have a walking foot & feed dog for even stitches on a taper or going over seams.

[DrmCa]

Same sentiment here. I regret not spending more or not buying machines, when I had a chance, but never regret buying one.

It is almost always possible to use more of a machine for less of a project, than the other way around.

Shop around for a good used motorized machine, and you'll find a deal.

[Yetibelle]

I think after any one hand-sews leather, while sometimes relaxing and meditative, it can also be frustrating and slow.  This also applies to learning to sew leather with a machine, hand crank, treadle or motor; it will take you some time to get the hang of it.  So if you pick the hand crank Boss machine, you will be learning to sew with one hand cranking the other holding the project.  If you get a treadle you will learn how to move your hand back and forth from the hand-wheel to the project and get a foot-rhythm.  Now if you get a the Cowboy CB4500, both hands are holding your project, the needle can move at brisk pace or a single stitch at a time due to the servo motor and speed reducer pulley.   I believe the slower speeds, using both hands and the edge guide reduce the learning curve significantly.

I would also add that unlike a 2K computer that is good for maybe 5 years, the industrial sewing machine may be immortal, since some of my machines are well over 100 years old and in perfect working condition.