Pondering over machine size CB3200 or CB4500

[TJStrand]

 am looking for a sewing machine and the options i have currently, due to price, is the High-Tex CB3200 or the CB4500. I already have an old Dürkopp flatbed that i will change the motor to a servo on so i can use it for wallets and smaller stuff. The things i will use the free arm machine for is mainly bags and purses. Working only with Tärnsjö veg tanned leather and almost only in the range from 4-8 oz so the real thickness many need when making saddles or holsters is a non-issue for me. The reason im looking at the CB:s are the combination of their capacity for a thicker thread and a reasonable price (others with that capacity here in Sweden is around 7000 USD) so in the end the only difference that really affects me is the length of the arm and a 1000 dollar difference in price. Im going to put a flatbed attachment on it for totes and so forth where i want the thicker thread so i can sew these on the outside of the machine too.  Soo... is  the extra 16 cm (6 inch) worth the money or should i spend them on a bellskiver instead? I'd like to hear your oppinions and what experience you have!

[RockyAussie]

I believe that both these machines are getting a bit too big for purses. You can not run thin threads through either due to there being no leather point needles less than NM 160 size 23. A CB 341 might be a better choice and will give thread sizes from  Thread Sizes: #46 - #207   Needle: #135x16/17: #16-#24.

A bell skiver is a must if you are looking for production but maybe a bit expensive if just for a hobby. 

[palvim]

I totally agree with RockyAussie. I have a CB3200 and I would like to do the same and do bags. If you use 6oz leather and skive them, with the smallest thread (138) possible you really need to get the tension right otherwise it's easy to get the loop showing on front or back. I would much prefer to work with thread 92 or even 69 for bags and purses. Thread 92 is a good size for bags. Unfortunately, neither the cb3200 or cb4500 will take it unless you "dumb" it down. Don't know about you but I don't dare to make any changes to the machine. Especially since I run a company and would hate down time. 

[TJStrand]

Great input! This will be my first machine and there are a whole lot of new things to consider when not handsewing. I have to look at some conversions for the thread sizes you mention (not the same system I use now and thread sizes are really confusing) and compare them to what I use now in my designs and how I can translate them over. Using mostly 0,6 mm thread and using the seams as a decor. 

I just have to talk to the machine supplier and se what he have and in the meantime do some test items with a thinner thread and see how it looks.

Thanks again for the input. Really helps to get experienced users opinions!

[TJStrand]

So after looking around it seems like the new version of the 341 is called 6900. Looks like a really nice machine and the sales rep told me it would take 10/3 (wich is about 207 as i understand). But only on the top. He says 20/3 on the bobbin. Thats not so cool for me since most of my seams show on both sides. Anyone know if it is possible to go thicker on the bobbin?

 

[CowboyBob]

2 hours ago, TJStrand said:

So after looking around it seems like the new version of the 341 is called 6900. Looks like a really nice machine and the sales rep told me it would take 10/3 (wich is about 207 as i understand). But only on the top. He says 20/3 on the bobbin. Thats not so cool for me since most of my seams show on both sides. Anyone know if it is possible to go thicker on the bobbin?

 

The #207 takes a lot of upper tension to pull the knot into the leather for a nice looking stitch that's why the next size smaller thread in the bobbin makes it look better.On the larger machines like the CB3200,3500,4500  with the shuttle system & 2-upper tensions works better w/larger thread top & bottom as long as your leather is thick enough for it.