One specific task: Strap (2 layers of 3oz garment with stiffener between)

[tofu]

Hi everyone,

I read the machine faq and did a fair amount of searching, but I'm still confused about which models to focus on. I want a machine to do a specific task - make straight lock stitches for a bag strap made of two layers of 3oz garment and stiffener (texon) between. 

I'm doing maybe 2-3 straps a week. 

How cheap can I go? The portable sailrite clones seemed like they'd get the job done, but then I read some posts about how horrible they are. I really don't want to spend four digits on a true industrial machine for such a small task. 

 

I would appreciate if someone could offer specific model #s for me to search for on Craig's. I don't mind vintage, and I'd really prefer a portable unit (no under the table motor) because I live in a tiny NYC studio.

 

Thanks!

Edited January 18, 2019 by tofu

[kgg]

I do have experience of owing / using the Reliable Barracuda 200ZW and really had no problems with it but understanding it wasn't a industrial machine. It preformed the tasks I asked however I would recommend that you purchase a heavier flywheel (Monster) kit. If you think the Sailrite portable could do the job then the Baracuda will probably do it as well just easier on the pocket book. As far as budget goes new it would run you about $500 US. If you are looking at attachments like a binder for the machine the two mounting holes in the base will have to be tapped to accept the hold down screws.

kgg

[tofu]

Thanks. I don't mind doing bolt on modifications or repairs within reason. I am just hesitant to buy those series of machines because people seem to really dislike the consew version. Cp206rl? I understand there's a few versions of the machine from rex and techsew also. All basically clones. 

 

If I can unbox it, throw a new flywheel on, and make consistent reliable stitches for my project, I'm happy. Not looking to expand into veg tan or more layers any time soon. 

 

[Wizcrafts]

It is my understanding that only the Sailrite brand machines have been regularly upgraded as flaws or weaknesses are discovered. They say as much on their website and in videos they produce. This is important if one intends to continue using the machine for an extended period of time. They have beefed up cranks and bearings. While not on par with a full blown industrial dual feeder, they are more than a step above the majority of Chinese clones.

[koreric75]

2 hours ago, Wizcrafts said:

It is my understanding that only the Sailrite brand machines have been regularly upgraded as flaws or weaknesses are discovered. They say as much on their website and in videos they produce. This is important if one intends to continue using the machine for an extended period of time. They have beefed up cranks and bearings and cast their own bodies in the shop, or at a nearby foundry. While not on par with a full blown industrial dual feeder, they are more than a step above the majority of Chinese clones.

I am waiting for them to unbox it, but tandy has a new leather stitcher and it's made by sailrite...no info yet other than cost and it comes assembly required...lol

[Wizcrafts]

I made the mistake of buying an off brand portable walking foot machine couple years ago from an eBay seller. The box was dropped on the handwheel end during shipping. When I unpacked it, the machine was seized. I tried to free it up for one day, then mailed it back and got a refund. The crank shafts were made of soft metal that had bent from the rear impact. The casing was crude and had jagged edges when I opened the top cover to check the damage.

[ScoobyNewbie]

I have used (abused) the new machine at Tandy. I liked it. It ran very smoothly and was quieter than most of the older machines I have used in the past.

The pedal is a lovely large treadle plate, and it goes very easily, slow to peddle to the metal. 

It comes with a piece of what looks like latigo belt blank with great big stitches all the way around and down the middle. So, I immediately threw a piece of six ounce in front of the foot and sewed about an inch on it. I had made the stitches fairly tiny with the stitch length bar... probably just above the middle.

probably 12-13 ounce.

Sewed just fine. Then I put another 6 ounce piece in front of the foot. Sewed for about an inch. I had run out of latigo by this time and so I put another 6 ounce piece in front of the foot and sewed another inch. 

So probably 18 ounces total. 

No problem. 

Then I thought I would see how it back stitched... Jim got mad.

Okay, so what happened was the tension on the rubber gear belt attached to the machine got high enough to pull the little gear pulley in the middle between the two rubber belts that attach the machine to the motor up, making the belt on the machine too loose and making a.. bad and upsetting noise. 

Jim loosened the pulley bolt, reset the belts and it runs beautifully again. 

So, lesson learned, only two layers on the stitch master and don’t go above 12 ounce total.

Didn’t even bend the needle. 

‘I think it’s lovely, and I’m gonna get one for my birthday!

Edited January 19, 2019 by ScoobyNewbie

[chrisash]

There is a nice history here about the sewrite Ultrafeed

https://www.sailrite.com/ultrafeed-history

[chrisash]

oop's sailrite sod this speelchecker

[benlilly1]

15 hours ago, koreric75 said:

I am waiting for them to unbox it, but tandy has a new leather stitcher and it's made by sailrite...no info yet other than cost and it comes assembly required...lol

I have the Fabricator from Sailrite. Great instructions on putting it together. The foot doesn't raise all that high for thick leather, but sews very well. I've used it on veg-tan leather but I sew slow on it. A very quiet machine and built well.