We all can agree that leather can be quite difficult to handle and work with. It tends to stick, you can’t really pin it down without damaging it, and stitching it is a whole another tedious task. Don’t you agree?
For this reason, finding an efficient sewing machine is crucial. However, how do you decide which one to go for? Well it’s quite easy, really.
You first need to decide your needs. Then, you must choose the features you look for in a sewing machine for leather. Not sure of the important factors? Don’t worry; we’ll be talking about those later!
Before we move on, let’s look at the ten best sewing machines for leather you can get your hands on today!
Contents
Top 10 Best Sewing Machine For Leather In 2019 Reviews
| Name | Number of Stitches | Computerized or Mechanical? | Built-in Needle Threader? |
|---|---|---|---|
Number of Stitches 18 | Computerized or Mechanical? Mechanical | Built-in Needle Threader? Yes |
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Also Great SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960  View Price | Number of Stitches 600 | Computerized or Mechanical? Computerized | Built-in Needle Threader? Yes |
Also Great Singer | Heavy Duty 4411  View Price | Number of Stitches 11 | Computerized or Mechanical? Mechanical | Built-in Needle Threader? No |
Also Great JUKI DDL-8700  View Price | Number of Stitches - | Computerized or Mechanical? Mechanical | Built-in Needle Threader? No |
Also Great SINGER | Heavy Duty 4452  View Price | Number of Stitches 32 | Computerized or Mechanical? Mechanical | Built-in Needle Threader? Yes |
Also Great Leather Sewing Machine Tippmann  View Price | Number of Stitches - | Computerized or Mechanical? Mechanical | Built-in Needle Threader? No |
Best Choice Consew 206RB-5  View Price | Number of Stitches - | Computerized or Mechanical? Mechanical | Built-in Needle Threader? No |
Also Great Reliable 4000SW  View Price | Number of Stitches - | Computerized or Mechanical? Mechanical | Built-in Needle Threader? No |
Number of Stitches 60 | Computerized or Mechanical? Computerized | Built-in Needle Threader? Yes |
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Also Great Singer Heavy Duty 4423  View Price | Number of Stitches 23 | Computerized or Mechanical? Mechanical | Built-in Needle Threader? Yes |
Below, we have discussed what we believe to be the ten best sewing machines for leather. Apart from talking about their features, we’ve also listed the pros and cons. So, by going through our in-depth review of these ten, you can surely find one which suits you best!
1 Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
The HD300 is a heavy-duty sewing machine that is one of the best sewing machines for leather that you’ll find on the market. In fact, it is just one of the few completely metal leather sewing machines.
While this unit might not be the prettiest model, it is surely built for heavy duty work. When talking about its appearance, you should know that it also doesn’t come with the plastic shell that newer machines have. Similarly, it also doesn’t have any curved lines or pattern, etc.
This Janome sewing machine comes with a number of features like a thread cutter, built-in needle threader, and seam guides. Similarly, there is also a dial for adjustment and controlling tension, drop feed, a reverse stitch level, and free arm. With this machine, you can also expect features like a 3-piece feed dog, a four-step buttonhole, and 18 utility stitches.
Apart from sewing leather, the Janome HD3000 can also handle natural fibers like wool, linen, and cotton. It can also sew fine fabrics, synthetic materials, fur, upholstery, knits, multi-layers, and extra thick fabrics.
Thus, the HD3000 can be surely called a completely versatile machine that is suitable for both home and commercial environments. As mentioned earlier, the machine is a true workhorse and can deal with many different fabrics easily.
(3.9 / 5)- The jam-proof bobbin and the automatic needle threader make the unit easy to use
- Comes with useful features like adjustable presser foot pressure, free arm, and easy stitch selection
- The HD3000 comes with a number of useful accessories
- It can easily sew heavy-duty fabrics, leather, as well as, multiple layers
- It doesn’t make a lot of noise
- Since it is quite heavy, it isn’t portable
- It is not really suitable for lightweight fabrics
2 SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960
While the Quantum 9960 is famous as an efficient sewing machine, it is also quite good for all your leather sewing projects.
Generally, a heavy-duty sewing machine is more suitable for leather which might have you wondering why this machine is on the list. Well despite not being a heavy-duty machine, it is surely capable of handling leather because of its features.
The machine comes with features like strong feed fogs and an impressively smooth fabric feed. It comes with an extension table so that you can easily work on larger projects.
So, if you’re going to be making clothes out of leather, then the 9960 is the perfect choice. It comes with an impressive 600 built-in stitches along with many customization and editing options. It also comes with various easy to use features as well, making it a must-buy for sewing leather!
(4.1 / 5)- Most suitable for making clothes
- Comes with in-built 600 stitches as well as 5 fonts and 1-step buttonholes
- Also features automatic needle threader, bobbin winding, thread cutter, etc.
- It lets you sew without the foot pedal because of the electronic autopilot
- Provides a bright workspace
- Works great on both denim as well as leather
- This might not be the most suitable machine for beginners since it comes with a plethora of advanced features
- The company’s customer service isn’t up to the mark. This might become a problem if you need technical help with your machine.
3 Singer | Heavy Duty 4411
It can be said that the Singer 4411 has all the features a sewing machine should have. In other words, it is an excellent, all-in-one package. Due to its numerous commendable features, the machine can easily handle any material or fabric you wish to sew. Such features include a powerful motor, stainless steel bedplate, interior metal frame, and extra-high sewing speed.
Apart from the versatility of use, the 4411 is also capable of sewing at an excellent rate. Since it is fitted with a powerful 110V motor, you can easily work on leather and other thicker fabrics. Moreover, the machine lets you stitch at 1100 stitches per minute so that you get faster results. Thus, the 4411 is perfect for commercial and industrial use.
Furthermore, the drop-in bobbin system is simple to load and comes with a clear view cover. As a result, you can enjoy easy thread supply monitoring and quicker threading. Other features of the machine also include 11 built-in stitch patterns and an automatic 4-step buttonhole.
Apart from its useful features, the machine also comes with accessories that make sewing easier and thus more enjoyable. These accessories include a quick start guide, a soft-sided dust cover, a zipper foot, and an all-purpose foot.
All in all, the Singer 4411 is a premium sewing machine for leather. Plus, it can cater to the needs of both amateurs as well as professional sewers. Moreover, the heavy-duty frame of the machine ensures durability and skip-free sewing.
(4.2 / 5)- Fitted with a powerful 110V motor that promises excellent power
- It is capable of handling both thick and thin material
- Gets the job done quickly since it allows 1100 stitches per minute
- It is quite feature-rich and comes with accessories too
- The threading instructions in the instruction book are a little hard to understand
- The machine tends to tangle the threads which can be problematic for beginners
4 JUKI DDL-8700
The JUKI DDL-8700 is a highly efficient industrial sewing machine. In fact, it is a must-have for garment repairers as well as manufacturers. At the same time, the 110V industrial motor is also suitable for home-based business owners.
With a maximum speed of 5500 stitches per minute, the machine is much stronger and quicker than other competing machines. Since the motor promises adjustable RMS’s, you can get a range of sewing options. So, you can slow the machine down for projects that require more accuracy. Since the DDL-8700 is a heavy-duty machine, it can handle various fabrics ranging from lighter fabrics to leather.
Modifying, customizing, and repairing any clothing is fast and easy. Thus, the machine is suitable for a commercial setting as well as for a home seamstress. Apart from industrial sewing, it is also suitable for tailoring. In addition, the machine’s quiet yet powerful motor makes sewing machine.
Maintaining machine is also not a tedious task since the auto-lubricating system makes maintenance effortless. Moreover, it has a commendable stitch speed that can be adjusted for detailed and intricate sewing projects.
(4 / 5)- The powerful motor works without making too much noise
- Stitching is extremely fast at 5500 stitches per minute
- Features like auto-lubrication make maintenance easy
- It can be difficult to sew long straight stitches with this machine
- The machine is quite heavy
5 SINGER | Heavy Duty 4452
The Singer 4452 comes with a variety of features that make creating and customizing garments an exciting task! Such features include 32 built-in stitches and an automatic one-step buttonhole. Since the machine comes with a wide range of stitches, the machine is suitable for different kinds of sewing. In fact, they are perfect for clothing construction, crafts, and even home décor.
The greatest feature, perhaps, of this machine is the automatic needle threader. Once you follow the threading path on the machine, the automatic threader guides you to the needle’s eye. As a result, you can push the thread in the needle without straining your eyes or getting frustrated.
The 4452 is also quite a high-speed sewing machine with a maximum speed of 1100 stitches per minute. As a result, you can get done with your sewing projects in just a short time. The machine also features a motor that is 60% stronger than the motor of other machines. Thus, it can easily handle heavyweight fabrics.
Overall, the 4452 is no less than a workhorse. Its heavy-duty interior metal frame allows skip-free sewing while the stainless steel bedplates ensure smooth fabric flow. Moreover, the top drop-in bobbin is easy to remove and insert and monitors thread supply too.
(4.4 / 5)- Features ease of use and low noise level
- Ideal for even beginners too
- Available at a great price considering the features it comes with
- Can handle even items like Velcro
- The bottom thread tends to tangle under the fabric
- The presser foot lifter is not of high-quality
6 Leather Sewing Machine Tippmann
This is a non-motorized machine and is considered to be one of the best. In fact, it is known for sewing through any leather product easily and can even deal with double leather straps. Similarly, it can also handle sheepskin, nylon, canvas, etc.
There are many features in this Tippmann machine. You can adjust the thread sizes, the stitch length, and even the needles. Moreover, it comes with ten needles, two bobbins, and a spool thread.
Since this is a manual sewing machine, there’s no need to worry about electricity breakdowns. Moreover, the machine doesn’t clutter up the room either since there are no hookups or outlets. It can be said that the machine is absolutely reliable and sufficient for all environments.
Apart from different kinds of stitches, the machine also comes with various accessories. Thus, you can work with different fabrics. Operating the Tippman is a simple task too since you can get started just by pulling a handle. With every pull of the handle, the machine completes a precise lock stitch.
Overall, the machine is great for working with thick fabrics such as upholstery and leather. It is a self-sufficient machine that will surely satisfy you.
(3.9 / 5)- There are no hookups or cords thus saving hassle
- The machine comes with various stitching options
- There are ten different kinds of needles to pick from
- Since it is a manual machine, it is not suitable for everyone
7 Consew 206RB-5
Sewing machines that deal with leather often provide a stitch of maximum 6mm. However, this machine by Consew gives you the double of that! This heavy-duty machine promises a stitch length of 10mm!
The machine also features a thread release finger for your projects involving leather. You can also remove the bobbin without having to remove the materials you are using. With this machine, once you have the right needles, you can get the job done quite easily.
Since this is an industrial sewing machine, you will need a proper table for it to work properly. Similarly, you will also need a motor that can handle the machine’s operation. It is recommended that you use a motor with variable speeds so that you can use all the features the machine provides.
You also need to oil the machine after each use to keep it maintained. Even if you don’t plan to use the machine for a few weeks, you must still oil it. Since you need to take care of the machine proactively, it can be said that the Consew machine is an investment. That said, note that you won’t need to purchase any other machine for your leather projects if you keep this in top shape.
(4.7 / 5)- Triple feed mechanism ensures layers do not slip
- It can handle lightweight materials to heavy-duty materials
- Comes with various innovative features that make leather sewing easy
- Needs a lot of care and regular oiling
- It is quite heavy
8 Reliable 4000SW
The 4000SW by Reliable features a Sequiet servomotor that helps to do the job in a short time. Apart from the stand, the machine also comes with K-legs so that you get the full stable sewing experience.
The machine comes with various features like the link-type feed mechanism and the large bobbin capacity. Consequently, users can enjoy a smooth operation. They can also enjoy consistent stitching for thick materials like leather.
Since it is a high-speed machine, it can be used for many different purposes. It can perform up to 2000 stitches/minute, helping you complete projects faster than before! While the machine is heavy at 80 pounds, it does have a flawlessly working motor drive.
Similarly, you’ll need to notice the sewing machine’s balance and ensure that it is oiled properly. However, the benefits it offers cannot be ignored.
This Reliable sewing machine is actually quite a basic machine. If you’re looking to create various leather products and require commercial investment, then this isn’t the right option. However, the machine can help you get done with projects quickly so you’ll have plenty of extra time!
(4 / 5)- Available at an excellent price
- Really helps to get done with the projects quickly
- Not suitable for industrial use
- It is quite heavy
9 Brother Sewing and Quilting Machine, CS6000i
The CS6000i has quickly gained popularity for being a versatile, all-around sewing machine that one can get. Since it is a computerized machine, even beginners can handle it with ease. Moreover, features like the adjustable sewing speed and an automatic needle threader make the CS6000i increasingly user-friendly.
The machine also comes with additional features such as various kinds of stitches along with 60-built-in stitches. The sewing machine also comes with a light that lets you work in darker areas too. Meanwhile, the oversized work table allows easy quilting. The large table also lets you tackle big-scale crafting projects.
All in all, the machine is great for crafters looking to honing their skills in various techniques like quilting. Moreover, both professionals and beginners appreciate the built-in stitches as well as a built-in free arm. Plus, it is available at a great price and ideal for beginners as well.
(4.5 / 5)- Different features make it easy to operate even for beginners
- Comes with different features such as free arm and built-in stitches
- Since it is computerized, it makes sewing fun
- Adjusting the tension is difficult
- The quality might not be up to the mark
10 Singer Heavy Duty 4423
This is another machine by Singer which only shows the company’s excellence in the field. The 4423 is a heavy-duty, high-speed sewing machine. Some of its top features include a stainless steel bedplate, 1100 stitch per minute sewing speed, and a metal frame.
It also features 23 built-in stitch patterns, an auto needle threader, and a leather stitch option as well. Due to these features, the 4423 is a fast and easy-to-operate machine.
It comes with twist knob dials that make it simple to change patterns and styles. Meanwhile, the heavy-duty frame ensures a sturdy machine that can be used in all environments. Similarly, its durability and numerous features allow you to use the machine with any fabric.
The 4423 also comes with a number of accessories. Some of these include thread spool caps, a button sewing foot, bobbins, and a zipper foot. Moreover, a soft-sided dust cover is also included. Moreover, since the machine is durable and sturdy, it is guaranteed to last for long.
All in all, the 4423 is another great product by Singer. It sews fast, is easy to operate, and durable and sturdy. In addition, it comes with numerous accessories that make sewing easier.
(4.2 / 5)- Comes with an ultra-fast speed at 1100 stitches per minute
- It is quite pocket-friendly
- Comes with numerous features that make sewing easy like the top drop-in bobbin and built-in stitches
- It is quite lightweight
- Comes with an accessory tray as well
- Not suitable to use for multiple layers
- It is quite noisy
Best Sewing Machine For Leather Buying Guide
Once you have a tool that can handle materials like leather, you can also tackle more interesting projects down the road. In general, models that can sew leather are more durable. So, once you invest in a heavy-duty machine, you can use it for many years.
As with any machine, choosing the right sewing machine can be daunting with the different types available. However, by considering a few factors, you can end up with a machine that suits all your needs well. Following are some features that will determine the machine you need to buy.
- The machine’s speed
If you’re a home-based entrepreneur or a manufacturer, the machine’s sewing rate is an important aspect to consider. In fact, the rate is important even if you use plan on using the machine to repair your own items.
Moreover, you want a machine that sews fast but is accurate and precise as well. Note that heavy-duty machines come with sewing speeds that are higher than average. They can range from 1000 stitches per minute to even 5000 stitches per minute! However, remember that for thicker materials, you need a slower stitching speed so that you do not break or damage the needle.
- Power Source
If you’re working out of a factory, then electricity isn’t too much of an issue. However, as a home-based user, it is a whole other story. If you choose a machine that sucks up a lot of water, then it might not be the best choice. This is because such a machine can quickly increase your utility bills, thus blowing your monthly budget.
Generally, heavy-duty machines need a lot of voltage, so they’re not really suitable for home use. Moreover, if you get a sewing machine that needs a lot of power, then you also require an electrician. This is to ensure that your wall sockets can handle the high amount of power.
Of course, some machines do come with the option of converting power sources so that they are suitable for home use. However, overall, you should really consider the power source before buying a machine.
- Noise level
Sewing machines for leather, in general, tend to produce excess noise. If you’re going to be using the machine in a factory, then the noise level is not an issue. However, for a residential environment, the noise level is high, and you might get a lot of complaints from people around you.
That said, there are machines available with quiet working motors. Plus, manual ones hardly create any noise so keep this in mind before settling on one machine.
- Type of motor
You’ll often find two kinds of motors in these machines; servomotor and clutch motor. The clutch motor is fitted in heavy-duty machines and makes a lot of noise. Moreover, it is highly suitable for sewing thick fabrics such as leather. Therefore, such machines are more suitable for commercial sewing environments.
Of course, there are some machines fitted with a clutch motor that don’t make too much noise. So, these can be used in a residential environment as well.
Meanwhile, the servomotor is quieter and can handle fabrics that are light to medium. Such machines are ideal for ornamental stitching. Plus, they often come with adjustable speed.
- Lights and workspace
You must determine the workspace you’ll need as this will help you to choose the right arm type. You will need a long-arm for materials like upholstery and canvases. This is so that the fabric can pass beneath the needle easily.
Meanwhile, good lighting ensures precision stitching which is particularly useful for quilting. However, if you’re going use the machine for large volume, straight stitching, then a light is not needed.
- Control features
Sewing machines come with control features that perform all basic as well as advanced functions. Therefore, you need to choose a machine that has features relevant to your requirement. For example, computerized machines are ideal for beginners. Similarly, RPM control on faster stitching machines helps to slow down the speed for precision work.
So, make sure you know the control features that you’ll be using before finalizing a sewing machine.
- Feed style
Sewing machines for leather come with two feed styles; puller feed and walking foot feed.
Walking foot feeds are generally present on heavy-duty machines. They move vertically to support the feed dog so that thick fabrics can easily pass through the machine. With this feature, you can sew fabrics that an average sewing machine cannot handle.
However, many industrial machines do use a puller feed coupled with a normal foot presser. Since both the feeds are available in heavy-duty machines, the choice is up to you. You must, however, know that a walking foot is easier to deal with when sewing heavy-duty materials.
Why Is A Leather Sewing Machine Needed?
When it comes to leather crafting, you can’t really make any mistakes. Even one mistake or one stitch in the wrong place makes the material worthless. Primarily, this is because when you stitch leather, then you’re permanently creating a hole in it. In fact, due to this reason that you can’t even make use of pins to plot out the project.
Moreover, leather tends to stick to the throat plate or the presser foot of most sewing machines. While you can stick tape to the foot’s bottom, many machines fail to accept the material’s thickness. As a result, the leather will just stick below the foot. In fact, you can even be left with a stuck needle and a big permanent hole that has ruined your project!
For this reason, you need the best sewing machine for leather. An efficient machine will not only get the job done quickly but will also save you from such blunders too. For instance, a leather sewing machine with a longer stitch length is better for leather. With such a machine, you will be left with a stronger and a more secure seam.
What Are The Basics Of Leather Stitching?
When it comes to sewing leather, the primary factor for ensuring a good sewing experience is the thread tension. Standard sewing machines tend to adapt with a tighter stitch that can ultimately cause the thread to break. With the right machine, you won’t have to face this problem.
Leather stitching also involves constantly needing new needles. Since leather is quite thick, it tends to dull the needle’s point with time. Thus, after some period of use, you will end up either jamming the machine or breaking the needle. In fact, you might even ruin your project!
Therefore, before you start a project, change your needle. Moreover, when you reach the natural stopping point, make sure you change the needle once more.
It is also helpful to sew leather products with synthetic thread instead of cotton thread. Materials like rayon and nylon work quite well, and polyester of upholstery weight can work well too.
Lastly, if your leather fails to slide despite having a leather-specific machine, then baby powder can help!
Are Residential Sewing Machines Suitable For Leather Sewing?
Leather sewing machines are basically of two types; industrial sewing machines and residential sewing machines.
Residential units are all-in-one machines that you can use to handle basic leather projects. The majority of such machines can handle a leather thickness of roughly 3/16” if proper leather needles are used.
For sewing anything thicker than the given thickness, an industrial leather sewing machine is more suitable. This means that you’re also going to need a table and a servomotor at least to finish the project. Plus, opting for an industrial machine also provides additional options for your projects. These include:
- Maximum stitch length increases to up to 10mm
- The stitching speed can dramatically increase and go even as far as 2,500 stitches per minute
- There’s no need to take breaks in between sewing to let the sewing machine cool down
You should know that buying an industrial sewing machine is a serious commitment. For instance, if the machine doesn’t come with an automatic lubrication feature, then you will need to oil the components frequently. Similarly, you will also have to oil the machine if it has not been used for a few days.
That said, residential sewing machines are ideal for light projects involving leather. However, if you’re going to be sewing many leather products, then it is time to invest in an industrial sewing machine. If you’re worried about spending so much for just a few projects or don’t have the money yet, then there’s another solution. You’ll find hand-sewing the leather a cost-effective method that can help you with projects that you need to get done right now.
Conclusion
So, here’s a round-up of the ten best sewing machines for leather. Now, before you settle on one, make sure you read our in-depth review of the ten units.
We’ve also listed down the factors you must consider as well as answers to the common questions you might have. Thus, we hope the post helps you in picking the right sewing machine for leather.
Sewing leather is no easy task, and the right sewing machine is essential, so make sure you settle on a machine after careful consideration!
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