Beginner Sewing Machine

[Kcstott]

2 hours ago, Brooks125 said:

It's a common request.  So common,  in fact, I called Toledo Ind. a few years ago and asked for the very same thing.  Keep in mind, Bob advertises "thousands" (I think) of sewing machines in stock.  When I called and asked if he had a used heavy, leather sewing machine, he gave me an immediate "nope". I asked how he knew in such short order that he didn't.  "I get this exact same call 3-4 times a week."  I'm sure he does, and 2 weeks later I was loading a new CB-3200 in the back of my truck from his shop. Used machines go for almost as much as new, and with the warranty (and someone like Bob a phone call away), new is almost always a better choice.  That being said, knuckle down, save up the coin and take a leap.  I taught myself to sew leather on that machine.  It is the best $1800 I ever spent and don't regret it for a second.

That’s one of the reasons I had no problem dropping the money on the machine. 
if it turned out to be a bad idea for me I can sell it and take near zero loss. 

[councilman24]

On 3/3/2020 at 3:10 PM, Rchang said:

Hey there,

Wondering if I could get some advice on a good beginner industrial sewing machine. I have a price range $1000.00.

You've gotten some advice about new machines and very heavy machines but I haven't seen an answer to what you want to do?

I just bought a very good condition consew 206rb-2 needing a little adjustment and a 206rb-3 running well a little more used each for $300 with tables and clutch motors. I have one machine (lighter) with a servo. I also have two servos in boxes that I haven't decided which machine to put them on. In the mean time I keep sewing with the clutch motors I've been using for 20 years. One of the 206s I sat down at to try out before I bought it and could run it at a out 200spm (actually likely less) with the clutch. That being said a servo can be added to any machine for $135.

I've bought sewing  Songer 111 walking foots for $100. A Pfaff 145 compound feed similar in capacity to 206 for $35.

To start you don't need new, no offense to the dealers here.  The ONLY machines that I paid more than a $750 for out of 8 industrial zig zags, 5 or 6 compound feeds, 2 walking foot machines, 2 29-4s and an Adler 30-1, a 132k6, 2 7 class singers and an electronic bartacker was the bartacker and one of the 7 class. A couple needed a new take up spring a screw or two or adjustment.  Oh, I forgot the Brother double needle cylinder arm that is all there but does need some work adjustment, cleaning and tuning for $300 with NIB hooks and lots of other parts.

Granted I watch the ads, are familiar.with a lot of machines and willing to work on them myself.

You can get a lot for $1000. If you need the heaviest cylinder arm compound feed they are rare used (the Brother is medium weight and and a steal) and command a high used price.  Otherwise tell us what you want to sew and the forum can guide you to the proper used machines.

Edited March 27, 2020 by councilman24