Know anything about Consew?

[Sew-Classic]

Personally, I prefer some of the beefier, high quality, vintage machines for my occasional heavier sewing over the mini-walking foot machines. That's why I kept the Kenmore 158.1753 and sold the MWF machine.

If you send me some samples of the types of things you want to sew, I can try it out on a few of the various classics I have around and let you know which ones handled it best. As another plus, many of the vintage machine have zigzag stitches too. Some of the machines with the best piercing power really aren't the ones that are the more "collectable" or "in demand" machines. Even fully refurbished and guaranteed, they would be a mere fraction of the cost of the Consew mini-walking foot you are considering.

I sold this machine to a gal for making dog beds and toys. This one had really exceptional piercing power- perfect for her budget and what she wanted. It was a while ago, but I believe it sold for under $150, fully refurbished and with a guarantee.

But, your local sewing shop may have some suitable, serviced vintage machines. If you can try it out on your heavy fabric first, you could get a real bargain at a thrift store or garage sale even if you factor in the cost of servicing. But, the schlepping around trying to find the right machine is something that some folks understandably want to avoid.

Really do see if you can try this Consew MWF machine before you buy it. Honestly, I find them to be clunky, loud and unpleasant to use. But that is just my personal take on them. You might not feel that way at all about it.

FWIW, I have a badged, Consew blind hemmer machine that I just love. I call him "Charlie Crab".

[lendube]

Jenny, You are so terrific for going out of your way to help me. I looked at the machine you linked and it sounds like it would work great for me and the price! Whoa doggie! That would be great too. I would just rather not spend a bunch if I don't have to like most people.

Your offer to sample materials is very generous. The problem there is to get "samples". Most of what I do heavy duty wise is repair work on existing items for the fire dept. What got my attention when I went to the link was the comment about sewing through many, many layers of denim without a problem. I can't imagine needing more power than that. If the machine can take a medium weight leather, heavy strapping, heavy canvas and heavier upholstery fabrics I'm sure it would handle anything I could throw it's way.

If you have anything appropriate I'd definitely be interested. With the price you mentioned, even with shipping most of the way across the country, I'd be better off! Or if you know of places in the San Diego/Orange County areas of California I'd love a reference.

Like I said, I'm not quite ready to purchase. I've got a major extra expense going on right now supporting my son and his living expenses (elsewhere, not at home) till he finds work. Poor guy. He's trying his best but he's been at it since November.........

Thanks so much for your help.

[Here_Fishey]

I have to go with sew-classic on this one. The best machines that I have for heavy-duty sewing are my old ones. The singer treadle will go through anything and the singer hand-crank that I own will also go through just about anything that I throw at it. (The hand crank is a conversion, it used to have an electric motor on it, but I was afraid of the wiring) Of course, neither machine will do a zig-zag stitch, but I think that I do have an attachment that will make something like a zig-zag stitch.

[Sew-Classic]

There is one qualification that I would like to add. If one were doing more than the ocassional tough sewing job, then a genuine, purpose built industrial is really the best option. FWIW, not all industrial are meant to sew the thick stuff.

Nonetheless, I was just sharing my personal experience on the MWF machine verse some of the beefier classic, vintage machines.

Lendlube,

I wouldn't be able to suggest a shop in your area. I'm sure there are some good ones though. Shipping the classic machines from one coast to the other usually runs about $25 to $35. If you find one locally, that would certainly save you the shipping cost, but having it delivered to your door, all serviced and tested can save alot of running around and hassle in that dept.

You are still welcome to put together a little sample pack of things you want me to try on some machines and send it off. Even if you don't have any firefighter type samples. You can easily contact me thru my blog (contact link onthe left side column). If you find a machine locally, the best way to evaluate it is to thread it up and try it out.

[lendube]

Thanks again. I'm amazed at the cheapness of shipping a machine so far. That's definitely tempting and well worth the cost. I'll check out your blog and keep doing research. I appreciate your advice and standing offer to test stuff for me.