Hand crank sewing machine - looking for advice/experience

[jellyrolly]

I have a domestic sewing machine that I use for both personal and professional making. Occasionally I need something more industrial for very thick or multiple layers but I don’t want to buy one as it’s not needed often at all. I have seen an old fashioned hand crank heavy duty model which I’d be happy using but I wondered if anyone who uses one could comment on how they deal with thick fabrics? It’s a Seamstress delux model, so the old heavy Japanese models. It’s pretty cheap so I’m tempted. Any thoughts fellow makers?

Nope. Don't do it. Get a singer 201k if anything. Parts are cheap and plentiful. You should be able to get one for about £30.

Any reason why not? Thank you for the model tip.

I have an old style machine in the attic which I never use because it is just too much of a faff - by the time I've finished tinkering with it, I have run out of time for my project (mine's a Singer). I think you might find the same, although it should be better a dealing with slightly thicker layers. Have you tried hammering the seams flat? Seems to help a bit with jeans making etc.