Sewing leather can be difficult because of its thickness. Unlike regular and thinner grade fabrics, leather requires heavy-duty sewing machines to generate excellent results. Fortunately, there are sewing machines specifically designed to handle such materials with so much ease.
Here is a rundown of the top 10 leather sewing machines that are ideal for home and commercial use:
1. Janome HD1000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine with 14 Built-In Stitches
This sewing machine model from Singer allows you to sew as much as 1,100 stitches per minute. This means that you will not waste time to complete your sewing task. It is crafted from stainless steel plate; hence, you are assured of its durability and its ability to withstand the rigors of sewing leather. Its foot control technology allows for efficient and consistent speed control, without jamming.
Feature
- 14 Stitches Already Embedded, Plus 1 Buttonhole That Requires Four Steps to Create
- Threader for needles built right in
- Bobbin with Front-Loading, Vertically-Oscillating Hook
- Convenient Places to Stow Away Tools and Equipment
- Quick-change presser feet
- Maximum Stitch Width of 5mm
- It Comes with a Dust Cover
Pros
- This sewing machine is perfect in every way for me. Excellent performance; it fulfills all of my expectations.
Cons
- The reverse button is positioned awkwardly, right next to the stitch-selection knob, and is much too tiny. It seems like every time you try to flip a switch, you end yourself turning the knob instead.
2. Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine (New 2020 Tan Color) w/Hard Cover + Extension Table + Quilt Kit + 1/4 Seam Foot w/Guide + Overedge Foot + Zig Zag Foot + Buttonhole Foot + More!
With this model, you are assured of its long functional life because it is made of stainless steel. Despite frequent use, this sewing machine can withstand the pressure of sewing leather. This particular model is highly commended because of its ability to produce six basic and four decorative stitches. It is also known to be delivering optimum speed for fast sewing. The manufacturer of this sewing machine for leather also provides a product warranty that lasts for 25 years. You will have peace of mind knowing that you get assistance for many years to come.
Pros
- I need a needle threader since my eyesight is deteriorating in my mid-60s.
- Needle Up/Down: This feature is a lifesaver when stitching a lengthy section of bias binding or a project with lots of tight corners.
- Automated buttonholes, a backstitch with a secret lock, and auto-backstitching are just a few of the time-saving features
Cons
- The needle continues emerging from the spool; Despite my best efforts, the thread always seems to escape whenever I stitch at a fast pace.
- To see clearly, you’ll need to go down before the machine.
3. SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
SINGER Heavy Duty sewing machines are affordable while having 50% more power and speed to handle thicker materials and longer seams. A reliable, heavy-duty machine with an all-metal chassis.
Fast and precise outcomes are yours for the taking with the SINGER Heavy Duty 4432 sewing machine. The stainless steel bed-plate and the sturdy metal internal frame prevent fabric bunching and skipping when stitching.
Feature
- More than a hundred and ten different Stitch Applications are available for you to use, whether you’re looking for a simple stitching solution or something more elaborate.
- Increase Your Sewing Capabilities with the Four Presser Feet Provided
- Automatic 1-Step Buttonhole Stitching @ 1,100 Stitches per Minute
Pros
- Powerful equipment, this.
- It easily and quickly stitches through multiple layers of thick material. Get it going by pulling on the thread.
- My serger is perfect for doing topstitching on jersey garments.
- It’s a really simple device, so using it won’t be too difficult.
- The four-step buttonhole method is effective.
Cons
- In a loud way. Because of the noise level, I have been assigned to the guest room on the second floor.
- There are no decorative stitching.
4. SINGER | 4423 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
Singer’s heavy-duty sewing machines and the accessories it offers are convenient tools for anybody who needs to repair clothing or begin a new project from scratch. It has an automated needle. The ability to swiftly bring your creative ideas to life with to the machine’s pace of 1,100 stitches per minute and the time-saving efficiency of a threaded needle. Top threading requires the presser foot to be in the “up” position and the hand wheel to be turned towards the operator (counterclockwise) to prevent the machine from becoming jammed. a 120V volt supply.
Feature
- 97 Uses for Stitches
- 1100 spm – stiches per minute
- There Are Four (4) Extra Presser Feet Provided
- Quick-Attach Buttonhole
- Simple Needlework Options
Pros
- There is a metal frame below.
- It’s strong without being cumbersome.
- The machine has a strong enough motor for everyday stitching. It easily chewed through nine layers of non-woven polypropylene that I tried it on.
- The sewing machine’s foot pedal is sensitive, allowing me to use a variety of pressure levels with equal effectiveness.
- Easy to use and comprehend settings.
- Helpful device for threading needles
Cons
- Its case is made of plastic.
5. Brother XL 2610i Sewing Machine
Brother comes up with a free-arm sewing machine that is capable of producing 25 built-in stitches and 50 other stitch functions. It has a built-in needle threader and automatic thread cutter, so you can change the design and tension quickly. It also comes with a built-in stitch and length control to make leather sewing a very easy task. Although it has an sturdy flatbed and handles, it is surprisingly lightweight and can be easily transported wherever you want.
Feature
- Integrated Threader for Needle
- Turn-Back Needle Threader
- Presser Feet That Attach Quickly
- Regulating Your Feet’s Internal Pressure
- With just 8 needles and 1 buttonhole, you can create this stylish garment.
Pros
- Heavy and well-made, it prevents movement.
- The breadth of the 6mm stitches was aesthetic and enough.
- It’s rather quiet, however I found the HD1000 to be more refined.
- Although I’ve heard pros and cons for both drop in and vertical hook bobbins, I found the drop in bobbin to be simple and straightforward to load.
Cons
- Despite being conveniently located on the side, the stitch lever has a cheap, bulky, and rigid feel about it.
- The adjusters for the stitch width and length were also difficult to move and positioned poorly due to unclear labeling.
6. Singer 4411 Sewing Machine
This heavy-duty leather sewing machine has stainless steel bedplate and a strong metal interior frame. It also comes with a powerful motor, so you can sew pretty much anything with it. Some of its excellent features include the top drop-in bobbin and adjustable foot presser. This allows ease and comfort when used. This sewing machine allows you to have unlimited creativity because it offers flexibility and durability.
Feature
- There are 69 different stitch applications available for you to use, whether you’re looking for a simple stitching solution or something more elaborate.
- Increase Your Sewing Capabilities with the Four Presser Feet Provided
- There Are 1,100 Stitches Per Minute
- Buttonhole Closure That Is Automatic in Four Steps
Pros
- Strong and long-lasting.
- Conveniently portable (it has a handle)
- Packaged with instructions
- A Singer sewing machine of superior construction (really like that it is made out of metal, the plastic on my last sewing machine broke)
- Peddle is responsive, and it works nicely, however the power cord isn’t too long.
Cons
- The instructions might be difficult to follow for a novice.
7. Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
The CS7000X is a high-quality sewing and quilting machine that has a variety of useful functions, making it an excellent choice for sewers of all skill levels. Some of the machine’s user-friendly features include an LCD display, an enhanced automated needle threader, a large needle-to-arm workspace, a compact free arm for stitching in restricted spaces, and a stable, fixed needle bar.
There are many options with the 70 built-in stitches, which include ornamental stitching, quilting stitches, and a variety of one-step, auto-size buttonholes. The CS7000X is a fantastic deal since it comes with useful extras like 10 presser foot and a quilt guide, both of which are necessary for sewing and quilting. The durable, protected cover is removable, making it easy to transport to and use in class, and the broad, detachable table is great for working on bigger quilting projects.
Pros
- lightweight and convenient for portability
- has a protective cover already attached
- the accompanying needles are of superior quality, having been manufactured in Germany.
- includes everything you need to get started with sewing, knitting, quilting, etc.
Cons
- Shirring (sewing using elastic thread)
- Weaknesses in thread tension
- There is a great deal of flimsy plastic throughout the apparatus.
8. JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine
This Japan-made sewing machine is ideal for industrial use as it can run as much as 2500 stitches per minute. Manufactured by one of the pillars of sewing technology, this machine is perfect for sewing heavy materials such as leather because it is sturdy, durable, and stable. This sewing machine package includes the motor, stand, table, head, drawer, sewing lights, as well as other pre-installed components for easy operation.
Feature
- Currently, it just takes one pedal to operate and has updated LED lighting.
- At 1500 stitches per minute, quilting is suitable for clothing and interior design.
- Threader for automatic needles
- The bed and arm are aluminum die cast, allowing for smooth, low-vibration work.
- There’s an extra-large workspace with an extension table.
Pros
- Just look at how lovely everything is!
- Super portable.
- Very quickly
Cons
- Needle threader puzzles baffle even the brightest minds. Extremely poor design….
- It requires oiling before each and every usage.
- Even with the legs raised, the foot space is too small to accommodate two layers of cotton stitched together.
9. Brother Sewing Machine, GX37, 37 Built-in Stitches
Using the GX37 for regular sewing projects is a snap. There are 37 utilitarian and decorative stitches on this Brother sewing machine, making it ideal for a wide variety of projects, including garment construction, appliqué, and more. The machine has written instructions for each stitch, and dialing in your preferred option couldn’t be simpler. Use the GX37’s automated one-step buttonhole stitch and buttonhole foot to create almost flawless buttonholes. Cuffs and sleeve hems are easy to stitch using the GX37’s free arm sewing option. Accessories like as a zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot, blind stitch foot, and narrow hemmer foot are supplied with this machine, as is an instructional DVD.
Pros
- Transparent bobbin cover that loads at the front.
- Integrated threader for threading needles.
- The machine has a large dial on the front that allows you to quickly change the stitch type.
- There are two little knobs on top for adjusting the stitch length and width.
- You can feel the highest point of the needle without having to look, thanks to the raised line on the hand wheel.
Cons
- None
10. SINGER | Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing Machine with 600-Stitches Electronic Auto Pilot Mode, Extension Table, and Bonus Accessories, Perfect for Customizing Projects, 28.22 Pounds
This industrial grade sewing machine from Singer has a sewing speed of 2500 stitches per minute. It has a sturdy motor designed for high-speed operations. It can run both straight and zigzag stitches. It can sew multiple layers of leather with so much ease owing to its high knee lifter. It is made of stainless steel bedplate, giving you the assurance that it can withstand many years of rugged operations.
Feature
- Utilize Any of 600 Imaginative Stitching Programs
- Maximum Sewing Speed of 850 Stitches per Minute
- All the Necessary Presser Feet (13 Total) Are Included to Maximize Your Sewing Potential.
- Quick-Attach Buttonhole
Pros
- It’s a great sewing machine with all the trimmings: it sews smoothly and quietly, the feed dog handles heavier fabrics with ease, the machine light is bright, there are a variety of optional attachments and stitches, etc.
Cons
- The little bobbin cover is made of cheap plastic, and that bothers me. Defeat would come much too easily. It may be locked into the machine by a tab on its side. Appear to be readily detached.
- The Touch-tronic allowed me to keep the bobbin in position during winding, so there was no need to rethread the machine. The bobbin is coiled in the top of this model.
Final Thought
When choosing a sewing machine for leather, it is important to evaluate your skill. You can enhance your sewing knowledge if you choose the right model that suits your needs. You would need a sewing machine that will meet your level of performance and at the same time, provide you safety and ease of yours.
Find a heavy-duty sewing machine that will match your creativity. It should also be sturdy enough so it will not break down in the middle of your work. If you plan on working with a range of fabrics and leather, you should opt for industrial-grade machines as they offer more flexibility.
Since the introduction of sewing machines in the 1800s, the sewing industry evolved and introduced many sewing innovations. For 2014, there is a wide selection of highly efficient sewing machines that are specifically designed to tackle thick materials such as leather. With the right machine, you will be able to come up with great-looking products that will give you high levels of satisfaction.