r/Leatherworking 1d ago

What is this?

Post image

My Dad passed away recently and I inherited all his leatherwork tools that he inherited from his cousin who was a saddle maker. I snagged this because it was with the other equipment. I assume it’s for stitching leather? Does anyone know what this is specifically for?

64 Upvotes

17 comments sorted by

32

u/Zaphoid_42 1d ago

It’s a manual cobbler sewing machine. Amazon link

18

u/BVLundquist 1d ago

If you're looking for a good beginner video to watch on these Skilltree has one on YouTube.

https://youtu.be/GnTyXYAxuRw?si=mM0GVwRZnkre-J94

3

u/monstereatspilot 1d ago

Thank you!!

14

u/Cold_Increase_315 1d ago

I’m sorry to hear about your father’s passing. That is a decent machine to get started on. I want one when I finally get started using machines. I hope you cherish all his other leather tools you got, could be a blessing of a hobby in your hard times.

8

u/monstereatspilot 1d ago

Thanks! Theres a ton of stuff. Multiple swivel cutters, maybe 75 stamps, letter stamps, some cool rawhide mauls and hammers. I’m gonna try to put good use to it

6

u/sk8nhippy55 1d ago

A lot of people dislike them but I’ve been using it for almost everything and with the right modifications you can get this to sew like a more expensive hand crank but it takes a lot of time tweaking it.

5

u/mikess314 1d ago

What you have there is most beginner leather worker’s first “expensive” tool purchases and their first lesson that a machine that routinely costs $2000 will probably not be replaced by one that costs $90.

1

u/Nwmn8r 20h ago

I would've shared the info others have posted but the only thing I didn't see mentioned yet, and I could be wrong, but I believe there are kits and videos about how to add a motor to it if I'm remembering correctly. But it's very important to tune it and make sure it's running smoothly before relying solely on the motor. I want to say Jimmy diresta did a video about one. But it's currently 3 am where I am and I have insomnia so I don't know if what I'm typing is coherent.

1

u/texwrx210 18h ago

I’ve recent purchased one and it’s great to sew leather with. I’ve heard some people had bad luck with it but once you get the machine “tuned” and working right it’s great. I’ve made a few holsters already. Cuts down the sewing time immensely!

1

u/Kmc273498 15h ago

Adding motor looses forward and reverse. Not sure if that matters

0

u/VFRPIC 1d ago

Is a $90 Chinese leather patcher

2

u/OldTatoosh 1d ago

$115 or so actually. I may buy one for my wife if she gets into leather working.

3

u/VFRPIC 22h ago

They fluctuate in price frequently and be cautious getting one. Watch ALL the related YouTube videos on them and how to adjust it. It is said to be finicky and fickle. But I have heard some get decent results when they are adjusted and lubricants enough.

2

u/El-Tigre1337 12h ago

For closer to 200 you can get one from Bantam Saddle and Tack that is already set up and ready to go. They do all the finicky work, sanding of rough edges that tend to cut the threat and make sure the timing is correct and stuff like that. Great if you are willing to spend more to not have to mess with that stuff and guarantee a properly working one out of the box with all necessary bits and bobbles

1

u/OldTatoosh 12h ago

That sounds great, I will definitely check those out!

1

u/OldTatoosh 12h ago

Edit: So this looks like the $115 Chinese sewing machine but they have gone over the rough parts and got them sorted? I will spend the money just to make sure we have a functioning machine without big headaches getting it to function. Thanks again

1

u/MablungTheHunter 7h ago

Hey, thats THE sewing machine! Cool!