Desperately seeking sewing machine for canvas

[TJ-LJ Champion]

I keep looking to purchase a used heavy duty sewing machine for doing canvas work. I've sewn all my life, have three machines already and yes....want one more!I look on Ebay, Craigslist, newspapers and contact commercial machine stores looking for a bargain. Nothing as of yet.Does anyone know someone wanting to sell their machine for a VERY reasonable price? I could purchase a Sailrite but don't want to spend 500 plus right now when that money could go towards an outboard motor for an inflatable or kayak.The crutial feature I'm looking for is a machine that has a walking foot and can sew at least 8 MM stitching. It can have zig zag (would be nice)but basics for leather/canvas is ideal.Thanks all,Laurie

 

[dvideohd]

SOURCES....

Ebay... and Sailrite... two good choices to look...--jr

 

[Dan]

ebay

I've seen many heavy duty sewing machines on ebay -- often to be had for under $100. The sellers make a point of showing how the machine can sew multiple layers of leather, etc. I really think you can find one there.

 

[TJ-LJ Champion]

Thanks for the suggestions

Thanks guys I look at both places all the time. The machines on ebay don't have a walking foot (usually) and some machines not very reputable to own (break down/costly repairs). I like the idea of networking and finding sources through others. Just me I guess.....particular about my toys LOL!

 

[Tim]

No name knockoff

I purchased a Sailrite knockoff from ebay three years ago for $220.00. I paid for it with the construction of my mainsail cover alone. Walking foot, long stitch, wide zig zag. I've made: sail cover, binnical cover, curtains, sheet bags, boat bags etc and have not have any trouble. Good luck.Tim

 

[Tim]

No name knockoff

I purchased a Sailrite knockoff from ebay three years ago for $220.00. I paid for it with the construction of my mainsail cover alone. Walking foot, long stitch, wide zig zag. I've made: sail cover, binnical cover, curtains, sheet bags, boat bags etc and have not have any trouble. How much are you looking to spend?Tim

 

[TJ-LJ Champion]

Totally awsome Tim!

I knew I could count on someone elses recommendation for just the right machine. Thank you Tim! Yeah, I'm able to spend around that amount and I read the machine has "Extra Long Stitches" Woo Hoo!!!!! It has indeed a REAL walking foot. I will check it out and keep it on my watched ebay list untill I'm ready to buy, maybe next month.Next question, did you place the machine in a table or use it as is?Again, thank you!Laurie

 

[Mike8245]

I got one of them off Ebay also

and it appears to be an exact match to the Sailrite machine. Sews good, been doing some canvas projects here and there, love it. I just need more experience to be real good at it. Go for it. I think I paid about 250 for the staight/zigzag machine a couple of years ago- Good luck Mike

 

[oreana123]

Sewing Marine Accessories...

I have a Sailrite clone that I have sewn on for 2 years. I never had a sewing machine prior to this one. I have since learned a lot about sewing marine covers.These Chinese machines will do most everything you want. They are not by any stretch an "industrial" machine. The only reason for zig zag is for sewing seams that will not pucker, something very desirable on sails, but really no other application.Marine fabrics have gone through changes as well. In days past, canvas was the choice. Sunbrella had its day. The new acrylics (Top Gun, Odyssey III, etc) are even better. Most importantly, the new acrylics can be sewn on many home machines, as they are light weight fabrics that breathe slightly and are good for 5 years in the sun w/o fading.If you are interested in a lighter weight machine, it is recommended that you obtain one that has all metal gears. Try looking at a Slant-o-matic, a machine from the 60s. I just sold an ols Singer I got at a yard sale that only straight stitched and reversed- it sewed multiple layers of Sunbrella with ease. I doubled over 16 layers of Odyssey III and it sewed right through with a nicely formed seam.So even though some of the heavier duty machines look nice, and old classic from the 50's or 60's might accomplish most of your projects.

 

[caguy]

Nice to see I'm not the only one who sews here.

We use to have a bridal shop and our Chinese seamstress would take us to China Town in Los Angeles for great deals on used machines. If you go to a place where they repair machines in the garment district, it will boggle your mind as to what is available and the prices can't be beat. Actually they can the tagged price is always negotiable (she taught us that too. She always swore by Juki. I have owned four of them and they are tough and reliable. All of the ones that I have owned only do straight stitch. She taught me how by pulling on the top layer that you don't need a walking foot. I have a Sears portable that I use for zig zag. I noticed that all of the stitching that is done on my sails are zig zag. I assumed that it was to distribute the load without creating a line of perforated holes that might rip under load. Has anyone ever restitched their sails using a straight stitch? It would sure be a lot faster.The other question that I have is what kind of thread do you use?Frank

 

[TJ-LJ Champion]

re:Frank, Sailors, a jack of all trades!

Juki's are wonderful machines I also wanted a consew 206, but I've invested so much already in all my other machines I just can't justify getting another $1000 + machine so that's why I'm looking at the Chinese knock offs. If My interest continues I'll consider getting a real industrial. I go into NYC to the garment district all the time, inquired about many a machine, no bargains there (or at least I hadn't found them). I had picked up thread at the Sailrite booth during the show in Annapolis last October. I guess it's the poly thread that matches the Sunbrella line.Sewing is such a cathartic release for me, it all but calms my soul just as sailing does. I love the creative expression I have in designing new uses with fabric. For a time I was thinking of going back to school for interior design, I've worked with an upholsterer for a while and done my own consulting for many years. Now I'm hooked on boat renovation and can't think of anything else. A sick breed we are indeed, once the bug has bitten us we just can't let go.

 

[caguy]

I bought my last Juki through Craigs list for $200

We bought a brand new one in China Town for $400. I also sold that one 10 years later for $400. That included the table and 1/2 hp motor. I was smart enough to keep the extra feet. What I saved in making my own cushions and tiller cover paid for the machine.I've researched and still can't figure out which is stronger. I have found testimonies to both re. zig zag vs straight stitch.