For centuries, leather has been a material of choice for the best craftsmen. Leather is also used in fashion design, as well as in many other industries. It’s no wonder then that there are so many leather sewing machines out there on the market today!
Leather sewing machines are used to stitch leather together and can also be used for a number of other tasks, such as sewing leather bags, belts, wallets, shoes and even jackets. Before buying one, it is important to consider the particular use that you have in mind, so that you can make an informed decision on the type of machine that will be most useful for you.
What should you look for? What specifications should you be considering when purchasing your machine? Should you go digital or with a rotary-type needle? Read on to find out more about our 10 top picks for the best leather sewing machines.
Top Home Sewing Machine for Leather:
1. Singer Heavy Duty 4423.
- SINGER HEAVY DUTY SEWING MACHINE: The 23 built-in stitches including basic, stretch, decorative, and buttonhole stitches allow you to sew a variety of projects, such as fashions, home décor, quilts,...
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER SEWING MACHINE: After following the threading path printed right on the machine, this built-in feature helps you to effortlessly thread the eye of the needle without eye...
- HIGH-SPEED SEWING MACHINE:The Singer 4423 Sewing Machine has a maximum sewing speed of 1, 100 stitches-per-minute, so projects can be sewn quickly. The 60% Stronger Motor provides greater piercing...
- HEAVY DUTY METAL FRAME: The Singer 4423 heavy duty sewing machine is a true workhorse. With a heavy-duty metal interior frame, stainless steel bedframe, extra-high sewing speed and powerful motor,...
- SEWING MACHINE ACCESSORIES: A variety of accessories are included with All-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper/lint brush, quilting guide, needles, bobbins,...
This is our number one choice for the best leather sewing machine. The Singer Heavy Duty 4423 is an extremely trusted machine among professionals and artisans alike. Its four-step feed dog system ensures that it can handle all types of leathers with the greatest of ease, and its wide range of stitches gives you plenty of flexibility in what you can make.
Its automatic needle threader and easy-to-use features mean that you can spend a lot more time with your work, and do it quicker and more consistently. It’s built to last, so you can feel confident knowing that it will provide you with years of reliable service.
This machine has a heavy-duty design, with smooth-running gears and geared needle levers for smooth operation. It is also extremely sturdy and robust thanks to its high-quality cast iron frame.
Pros
- Automatic needle threader.
- Automatic tension control system.
- Strong, sturdy design and built to last a lifetime.
Cons
- Only one stitch length.
- Heavy-duty design isn’t suitable for lightweight materials.
2. SINGER Heavy Duty 4452.
- SINGER HEAVY DUTY SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 sewing machine boasts an array of features that make creating elegant garments and gifts for yourself and others fun and exciting. The...
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER SEWING MACHINE: After following the threading path printed right on the machine, this built-in feature helps you to effortlessly thread the eye of the needle without eye...
- HIGH-SPEED SEWING MACHINE: The Singer 4452 sewing machine has a maximum sewing speed of 1,100 stitches-per-minute, so projects can be sewn quickly. The 60% Stronger Motor than standard sewing machines...
- 110 Stitch Applications for any fabric
- BEST SELLING SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 sewing machine is a true workhorse. The stainless steel bedplate enables smooth fabric flow and the heavy duty interior metal frame ensures...
The Singer Heavy Duty 4452 is a heavy-duty sewing machine equipped with a range of features that make it the perfect choice for professional crafters and leather sewers alike. These include an oil pump to keep your gears running smoothly, a built-in needle threader, and a free arm that makes it easy to work on sleeves and cuffs.
The high-speed motor of this machine ensures fast and smooth cutting with high precision. This machine also features a knee lifter to make stitching easier and reduce fatigue. The Singer Heavy Duty 4452 comes with many great accessories, such as the built-in thread cutter, dust cover, screwdriver, oil bottle, and extra bobbins. A more in-depth review of this machine is here.
Pros
- Includes many great accessories.
- Good value for money.
- Fastest sewing speed in its class.
- Suitable for working on multiple layers of heavy materials simultaneously.
Cons
- Heavy-duty design isn’t suitable for lightweight materials.
- The high-speed motor produces unpleasant vibrations.
3. Brother ST371HD.
- 37 unique built-in stitches: The Brother ST371HD features 37 built-in stitches including an auto-size buttonhole
- Automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin: This sewing machine includes an automatic needle threader that perfectly pushes the thread through the needle and a convenient, jam resistant drop-in...
- Included accessories: The ST371HD heavy duty sewing machine includes 6 sewing feet, instructional DVD, manual and more
- Versatile free arm: This free arm sewing machine is perfect for a wide range of everyday sewing projects, and users from beginning to advanced
- At your side support: The ST371HD sewing machine comes with Brother at your side support offering free technical support via online, live chat or phone for the life of your machine
The Brother ST371HD is an excellent machine suited for leather crafters looking for a high-quality machine with a relatively low price tag. It comes with many great features that make it one of the best choices on the market, including an adjustable stitch length, automatic needle threader, and free arm capability.
Brother ST371HD is a highly versatile machine that can work with a wide range of materials. It has 24 different built-in stitches to meet the needs of your most ambitious projects. The handy thread cutter and adjustable stitch length ensure that there’s no detail you can’t handle when it comes to making leather crafts.
Pros
- Highly versatile stitch capacity for multiple types of projects.
- Automatic needle threader saves time and improves consistency.
- Free arm facilitates sewing sleeves, cuffs, pockets, etc.
Cons
- The bulky design makes it unsuitable for working with small leather pieces.
4. Janome HD 3000E.
- 18 stitches
- Heavy Duty Aluminum body
- Hard Cover and Quilting Accessory Kit Included
- Drop Feed System and Removable Free Arm
- Five Piece Feed Dog System
The Janome HD 3000E is our top choice for the best leather sewing machine because it has everything you need in a reliable machine. It runs smoothly and is quite affordable. The machine comes with many great features such as an automatic needle threader and a built-in tension control system that ensures that you can easily adjust the needle’s position when sewing different materials.
It has an adjustable stitch length that produces a variety of stitches. This allows you to crop and trim your leather pieces to get the exact look you want.
The Janome HD 3000E comes with a large number of included accessories, including a free arm attachment, presser foot lifter, presser foot oil bottle, and extra bobbins. It also comes with many other useful tools such as an instructional DVD.
Pros
- Lightweight design for use on the go.
- High-quality, low-priced machine.
- Comes with a large number of useful accessories and tools.
- The built-in tension control system ensures smooth operation and easy adjustment of the needle’s position when sewing different materials.
Cons
- The presser foot pressure is too high, which makes it difficult to sew on delicate or lightweight fabrics.
- Some users have reported problems with timing, causing the machine to stop mid-seam.
Industrial Leather Sewing Machine for shoe repair:
5. Industrial Hand Crank Patch Leather Sewing Machine.
- Leather Stitch Sewing Machine can be simply moved the little handle that moves the needles direction. It will go back and forth and side to side
- Leather patch machine single needle lockstitch cylindrical bed machine 360 degree rotating presser foot for sewing in any direction
- This sewing machine is suitable for sewing or repairing thick materials (leather, rubber, plastic and canvas), like shoes, boots, slipper, bag, dolls and cylindrical goods. Suitable threads nylon...
- Patch stitching machine there are 2 kinds of shuttle for selection, large or small. the small work platform can sew a small tubular goods
- Industrial shoes sewing machine max sewing speed 500spm. the arm length 30cm=11.8inch., hand crank industrial patcher sewing machine, not including table stand motor
It is a good sewing machine that is perfect for making shoe repairs and other leather projects. This machine is ideal for the industrial and clothes industries along with craft hobby works. The bench top sewing machine comes with a crank, which can be used to control the needle and move it from the stitched area to the beginning of the stitching line. It is easy to set up and adjust, which makes it a great choice for different kinds of projects.
The machine is portable and has a durable metal hook, which is attached to the crank. It comes with various travel adapters and attachments that make it very simple to stitch thick materials like leather. The machine comes with a thread spool case and an instruction manual, which explains how to use the machine’s different parts. For easy operation, the machine should be kept upright when using the hand crank.
Pros
- The time and effort required to perfect the stitching depend solely on the user. This machine does a great job of giving consistent results, with the ability to stitch thick materials.
Cons
- While there is a bobbin case that comes with the machine, it might be difficult to remove the thread from the spool during operation.
- Also, this model cannot be used with thicker needles and yarns.
6. AXIS 2972B Patch Leather Industrial Sewing Machine.
- Leather Stitch Sewing Machine Can Be Simply Moved The Little Handle That Moves The Needles Direction. It Will Go Back And Forth And Side To Side
- Leather Patch Machine Single Needle Lockstitch Cylindrical Bed Machine 360 Degree Rotating Presser Foot For Sewing In Any Direction.
- Leather Patcher Sewing Machine Suitable For Sewing Or Repairing Thick Materials (Leather, Rubber, Plastic And Canvas), Like Shoes, Boots, Slipper, Bag, Dolls And Cylindrical Goods. Suitable Threads...
- Patch Stitching Machine There Are 2 Kinds Of Shuttle For Selection, Large Or Small. The Small Work Platform Can Sew A Small Tubular Goods.
- Industrial Shoes Sewing Machine Max Sewing Speed 500SPM. The Arm Length 30CM., Hand Crank Industrial Patcher Sewing Machine, Not Including Table Stand Motor
It is a heavy duty industrial sewing machine that can be used to sew leather and other similar materials. The sewing machine includes various types of stitches such as chain stitch, satin stitch, twin needle reverse stitching and zigzag. It comes with an alan key to try different stitches and also includes an in-built thread cutter that allows you to take out the thread for easier insertion of new material.
The machine is easy to set up as the lockstitch cylinder comes pre-adjusted, which makes it easy to use.
Pros
- It is a lightweight machine, which is easy to carry around and store.
- Its durability makes it possible to sew materials of various weights without much trouble.
Cons
- The thread tension is not adjustable, which can make it difficult to manage different stitches.
- The machine can also be quite noisy during operation.
7. Shoe Repair Boot Machine.
The YEQIN Leather Patcher Industrial Sewing Machine is a heavy-duty machine designed for repairing leather, canvas, and other tough fabrics.
The machine is made of high-quality materials and features a powerful motor, sturdy construction, and a large working area. It has an adjustable stitch length and can sew at speeds of up to 800 stitches per minute. The machine is capable of sewing up to 3/8 inch of material and has a built-in lubrication system.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction makes it durable and long-lasting.
- The powerful motor allows for fast and efficient sewing.
- The large working area provides plenty of space for working with large pieces of fabric or leather.
- The adjustable stitch length allows for customization of the stitch according to the project.
- The built-in lubrication system ensures that the machine remains in good working condition for longer.
Cons
- The machine is quite heavy and can be difficult to move around or transport.
- It is designed for industrial use, which means it may not be suitable for beginners or hobbyists.
- The machine is expensive compared to other sewing machines on the market.
- It may require professional installation or maintenance, which can add to the overall cost.
Cobbler Leather Sewing Machine:
8. YUEWO Leather Hand Shoe Repair Machine.
- 【High Performance】This hand sewing machine has long life-span and work high efficiency with no noise and which is made of iron, sturdy and durable. The bracket and body can be easily disassembled...
- 【Easy to Operate】This leather sewing machine is assembled by yourself in a few minutes.The installation is straightforward and simple. It will sew reliably and well once you get it set up right....
- 【Multi-Scenario Use】Our leather sewing machine can sew different materials by nylon or cotton wire, such as high heels, cloth shoes,leather shoes, rubber shoes, sneakers, as well as raincoats,...
- 【DIY Sewing Machine】The arm can allow you to get into places that most other machines can't go. It uses standard sewing machine needles. The walking foot works well, users can well grasp the...
- 【Satisfied Service】This leather sewing machine has have one year warranty, Online Video Guide and Free Parts Exchanged, You can rest assured to buy. If you are not fully satisfied with our...
This machine is ideal for cobbler leather enthusiasts. It can help you work on a wide range of materials, making it an ideal choice for crafts such as hand sewing shoes and boots. The machine comes with essential accessories and features that make working on leather a dream for cobbler leather enthusiasts.
The machine is lightweight and compact, making it ideal to use when working on different kinds of projects. The thread spool is at the top, which makes it easy to take out the old thread while inserting new material.
Pros
- It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to use when working on different kinds of projects
- It is fast and sturdy, which makes it perfect for cobbler leather enthusiasts
- The machine has an adjustable tension dial, which allows you to manage the sewing tension when sewing different materials.
Cons
- There are some users who have reported that the machine does not work well with thick materials.
9. FamYun Hand Cobbler Shoe Repair Machine.
- This machine can be used with nylon line and cotton line, can be used with Prince line and other lines, Max. sewing thickness is 5mm.
- Can sewing different material shoes by nylon or cotton wire.(Such as cloth shoes , rubber shoes , leather shoes , sneakers , high heels , as well as raincoats , leather bags , cloth , trousers, or...
- The distance between the needles can be regulated, and the Max. width is about 6mm.
- It is hand-made by the master blacksmith, so the product will leave a knocking mark, not as smooth as the machine that be mold made.
- Service: Customer satisfaction is the most important, if you're not 100% satisfied with the product,please contact us by email on Amzon of "Ask a question" button,we'll sove it for you.
This is a portable sewing machine that comes with an adjustable tension dial, which makes it suitable for various materials. The machine works well for cobbler leather enthusiasts as it can make shoe repairs or any other type of projects. such as repairing high heels, cloth shoes, and many other leather crafts. It is easy to set up and operate and also comes with an instruction manual, which makes it simple for new users to use the machine.
The machine is fast and sturdy, which makes it perfect for cobbler leather enthusiasts. With its heavy duty motor, the machine can easily stitch materials of different weights without much hassle. The thread spool is at the top, making it easy to take out old thread while inserting new material.
Pros
- It is easy to set up and operate.
- Capable to sew different types of heavy fabric materials.
- Portable design.
Cons
- Rough surface.
10. YaeTek Hand Cobbler Shoe Repair Machine.
This machine is lightweight and compact, which makes it ideal for different kinds of projects. It can be used to repair shoes, including leather, canvas, etc. This machine comes with an instruction manual that makes it simple for beginners to use the machine. The thread spool is at the top, which allows you to easily take out the old thread while working on new material.
The sewing machine is also very fast and sturdy, which makes it perfect for cobbler leather enthusiasts.
Pros
- Highly portable and easy to set up
- It is ideal for a wide range of materials, including leather
- The machine is sturdy and fast, which makes it perfect for cobbler leather enthusiasts.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the machine does not work well with thick materials.
- The thread may also come out after a few stitches. The overall performance of the machine might also be quite unreliable as it has been observed that the stitching does not look uniform.
Types of Leather Sewing Machines:
There are various types of leather sewing machines available in the market, which makes it important to understand what differentiates one from the other. Some manufacturers make it difficult to differentiate them by simply labeling them as “leather sewing machines” but it is essential to understand what sets them apart.
Leather Sewing Machine vs Standard Sewing Machine:
There is a significant difference between leather sewing machines and standard sewing machines. The most obvious difference is that leather sewing machines are made from tough materials and usually include various accessories for working on leather. However, this does not mean that you cannot use a standard machine to sew on leather – it will work fine but might require some extra effort to get it just right.
Singer vs Janome:
When it comes to brands, Singer is one of the most popular manufacturers of sewing machines for all kinds of projects, including leather and canvas. However, Janome, another popular brand, is not too far behind. Janome is one of the most reputable brands when it comes to sewing machines, and they manufacture high-quality products that are perfect for different kinds of projects.
Tailor vs Industrial:
While tailors and cobbler enthusiasts might prefer to use a tailor-made leather sewing machine, hobbyists who are just beginning should consider using an industrial sewing machine.
Read more: Buying guide of professional tailored sewing machine for seamstress
TIPS FOR SEWING LEATHER AT HOME
1. Check Your Sewing Machine First:
Before you go ahead and begin a project, make sure that your sewing machine is in good working condition. Part of this will be checking the thread tension. You should have no problem doing it with a few stitches. If the needles seem to be touching each other or are jumping on their own, you should check that as it might indicate a problem with the motor. Also, check for any signs of rust or dryness on the needle plate or bobbin case. If you find any, get your sewing machine serviced or replace the parts.
2. Buy the Right Thread:
The first thing that you need to do is make sure that you are using the right kind of thread for your project. There are a number of different types of threads available in the market such as polyester, cotton or even metallic threads. While they all work well on different kinds of materials, you will need to use these threads in accordance with their intended purpose. Cotton threads are good for sewing on synthetic fabrics such as leather but if you choose to use cotton threads on natural fabrics, you will not get the desired results.
3. Cut Your Thread:
Make sure that you take out the extra thread before stitching a new piece of material. Cutting your thread is important as it allows you to ensure that there are no loose strands of thread when you start a project. This will also save time and effort as well as protect your sewing machine by preventing buildup of excess material over time.
4. Cut the Leather into Shapes:
Before you can start to sew the leather, you will first have to cut it into different shapes. Depending on your project, you can cut them into shapes such as squares or rectangles. You should aim for a shape that is a little bit bigger than the object that you intend to make. However, no matter what shape you choose, make sure that your pieces are free of any burrs and rough edges because it will be difficult to sew this in if they are not smooth.
5. Use a Sewing Gauge:
A sewing gauge is quite important when it comes to sewing leather because you will need to make sure that you are using the right stitching length. If your stitches are too short, the thread might not hold the leather together well. The reverse is also true; if your stitching is too long, then it might rip through the leather when you pull it. Your stitching length should be 3mm to 5mm on both sides of the material and this should be enough for most projects.
FAQs
Do I Need A Special Sewing Machine For Leather?
No, you do not necessarily need a special sewing machine for leather. A standard sewing machine will work well if you are working on smaller projects such as handbags or shoes. However, for larger projects such as car seats or boat covers, you will need a heavy-duty leather sewing machine.
What Kind Of Thread Should I Use?
This depends on the kind of material that you are using. For leather, you can use a type of thread that is similar to the material that you are working on. However, make sure that the thread is compatible with your sewing machine.
What Kind Of Machine Should I Use?
Whether you choose a Janome or Singer machine, making sure that your sewing machine is compatible with leather is very important. You should also choose a heavy-duty sewing machine especially if you will be working on large projects such as car seats or covers.
How Much Does A Leather Sewing Machine Cost?
Leather sewing machines cost a lot of money and so you should know that they come with a higher price tag. While beginners can start off with an industrial machine, cobbler leather enthusiasts will need to spend more money on their machine.
What Do I Need To Sew Leather?
When it comes to sewing leather, you need a few tools including threading needles, wax, polish, and chamois. In addition, you will also need a sewing gauge and leather sewing machine.
What Kind Of Needle Do You Use For Leather?
Leather sewing needles are usually quite long and have a sharp point on the end. These are used for hand sewing and the needle is threaded through your thread as you go to make sure that you get a firm stitch.
Where Do I Get Leather?
You can buy leather at any craft store or leather store. However, it is important to ensure that you buy quality leather as it will be more expensive than lower-quality materials.
What Is The Cheapest Sewing Machine I Can Get That Will Handle Leather And Upholstery?
The Singer 7258 Stylist is one of the most affordable machines for leather and upholstery projects. It comes with 46 built-in stitches, a top drop-in bobbin, a free arm, and makes it easy to sew on leather.
What Sewing Machine Is Recommended For Sewing Leather Bags?
The Janome HD1000 is a heavy-duty sewing machine that comes with a lot of features and is perfect for leather bags. It comes with an electronic foot pedal, which facilitates easy foot control during your sewing to reduce strain on hands.
Sewing Machine Skipping Stitches When Sewing Thick Leather, Can’t Figure Out How To Fix It?
You might be experiencing this problem due to a worn-out sewing machine and you will need to have it serviced or replaced. However, if you still wish to use your current machine, then you can try adjusting the tension on your sewing machine. You should also check that the needle size is correct as well as make sure that your thread is not too thick or thin.
Conclusion:
These leather sewing machines can be a bit pricey, but if you are passionate about sewing or you do it as a hobby or as a profession, then they are well worth the money. Some of these machines also come with a warranty and can last for many years. Once you decide on which one to get, being able to sew leather will be quite simple.
Hope you enjoyed the article, and if you have any questions, please post them in the comments section. I will be sure to answer them as soon as possible.
You can also check out our best sewing machine for leather and upholstery guide. It has plenty of useful information on leather and upholstery sewing machines.
