What model sewing machines do you guys use.

**Moski** · 10th January 09, 08:32 PM

I know that my machine can bog down when going through several layers of fabric, like the waistband. I was wondering what machines were in use out there.

**Steve53** · 10th January 09, 09:11 PM

I am currently using an old Singer treadle machine that my Mom got as a wedding gift back in 1951. I really need to upgrade to something that can zig-zag, though.

Steve

**Eric Peterson** · 10th January 09, 09:15 PM

http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/r...x.html?t=43389 Here is a link to info on what I use. I have used it for car upholstery etc. There is no reverse or zig zag, but if you can put it under the foot it will sew it.....I picked it up about 25 years ago at a second hand store.

**Tartan Hiker** · 10th January 09, 09:32 PM

I use a regular old home Singer, but I've recently borrowed a "commercial" Singer. Can't really tell any difference. The needle's the thing...big ball point needles are the way to go (see your other thread).

**Smayniac** · 11th January 09, 03:36 PM

Originally Posted by Steve53

I am currently using an old Singer treadle machine that my Mom got as a wedding gift back in 1951. I really need to upgrade to something that can zig-zag, though.

I have an old Singer too, mine belonged to my sister in law's grandmother, are you following this soap opera? It's a '30s vintage electric in a cabinet, I really like the extra space the fold out wing provides for working with a kilt. I just replaced the belt after the old one shredded, it works much better now. Like others have said, it has no reverse or zigzag, I borrowed newer machines to bartack my Xkilts.

Bob

**haxtonhouse** · 10th January 09, 10:20 PM

I use a Tippman Boss sewing mchine that is designed for leather and canvas. it will sew through 3/4 of an inch of leather. It works quite well.

**OFCJAX** · 10th January 09, 10:21 PM

I have a little 3/4 size Kenmore Mini-Ultra that I play with.

**Southern Breeze** · 10th January 09, 10:37 PM

I use a regular Singer for most jobs. I also have a old industrial Pfaff that will sew almost anything you throw at it.

**Livingston** · 11th January 09, 09:08 AM

My wife used to make window coverings and has a Janome 4623LE Plus sewing machine and Baby Lock Pro Line serger.

***I was using the Janome to work on my X-Kilt this after noon. At one point, I had as much fabric as I could jam under the foot when it was raised and when I lowered the foot, it didn't move. Must have been between 8 and 12 layers there. Didn't faze it at all, sewed right thru, reversed and then forward again with no issues.***

**Pleater** · 11th January 09, 09:39 AM

I have 'oldish' sewing machine and overlocker about 30 and 20 years old respectively.

They are a Novum and a New Home - both made by Janome. They have given long and trouble free service, but you do need to use the right needle for the job - there are quite a few different sorts and sizes and it does make a considerable difference to have the right one.

I must confess that I sew my kilts by hand, but that is not because the machine would not do the job - I do sometimes sew a hem on the machine if I am pushed for time, but will pull it out and redo it later.

This is only because I think the kilt is the pinnacle of garments and deserving of the extra time and dedication. Just about everything else is sewn on the machine.

Anne the Pleater