commercial zig-zag for home use?

OK; Since I posted the question to the use of the singer 347 as being heavy duty and the consensus was that working fabric like cordura would likely break the machine, is there a commercial machine that is "light duty" enough to be considered possible for home use. I'ts unlikely that she'd been doing the multiple unit thingso she doesn't need the high speed function and I'm sure she'd like it to be able to work light weigh ripstop at the same time, so what should she be looking to acquire. She lives close to los angeles and there is a garment district where there is a turnover of commercial machine (as evidence from the craigslist ads in the tool section). Since it seems that commercial machines are set up for specific tasks, it appears that she should be looking for a generalist. Anyone have experience with specific machines that might qualify for such a description? Thanks Pat

Reply to
patrick
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My recommendation is that you find a reputable sewing machine dealer with experience in commercial/industrial machines. A dealer will know what machines are made for what types of fabrics, weights, usage, etc. I have a

20U73 by Singer, which --although an industrial -is still made for light to medium weight fabrics. It's made for dressmakers/artisans/designers who do a lot of sewing. It's made for heavy use, not heavy fabrics. Having said that, it does handle lighter nylons such as rip stops and water/weatherproofs used in winter coats, kites, and spring jackets. Needles dull quickly, so they need to be changed after eight to ten hours of sewing. Titanium needles last longer, but still need to be changed frequently when sewing nylon. I got my machine from an industrial dealer, he was extremely helpful when it came time to wade through the maze of machines and motors for my perfect machine.

This machine is on an industrial power stand, the motor and head are separate. It's big and bulky (the table is 20x48 inches) but it sews like a dream, especially when I'm on an all-nighter. I can concentrate on sewing; not on my machine. Still I'm not sure it would be good for what you want. You would have to check with a specialist. my dealer told me that my machine shouldn't be used for rubber coated nylons, heavy denier nylons and upholstery fabrics, which require specialized machines with direct drive motors. He also gave me operation lessons, taught me basic mechanical maintenance, how and when to oil, and troubleshooting advice. he also keeps me supplied in needles, feet, accessories...whatever else my creative little heart desires.

There are machine for home use that handle heavier fabrics, such as the previously mentioned pfaff. They use a combination of special needles and special machine accessories to handle the heavier guys. If you aren't an sewing machine expert, enlist the help of a dealer who knows his/her stuff.

Reply to
KittenKaboodle

kittenkaboodle- thanks for the perspective. Interestingly, I too have a 20u singer and do agree that it's more a medium weight machine. The times I've used it on cordura while not unsuccessful, haven't been the most pleasant. The machine really labored - till I put a new needle in it. Then the sewing went better but not flying through the job. I think my sis was expecting me to "upgrade and give her the "castoff" machine. Not a chance. Thanks again Pat

Reply to
patrick

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