is a consew 225 worth buying for leather?

[Kasios_Music]

I've got a shot at picking up a Consew 225 from a local seller. It was used for upholstery work, still runs, and he's asking in the $200–300 range. This would be my first machine. Most of what I make now are wallets... 4oz liners with 5–7oz tooled outers, but I'd like to branch into straps and maybe belts. From what I've read, the 225 might be a little underpowered for heavier stacks, but could still do fine with upgrades (servo motor, speed reducer, etc.). Anyone here used a 225 for similar projects? Is it worth grabbing at that price, or am I better off saving for something beefier right out of the gate?

 

[Dr4gonfruit]

I've got a shot at picking up a Consew 225 from a local seller. It was used for upholstery work, still runs, and he's asking in the $200–300 range. This would be my first machine. Most of what I make now are wallets... 4oz liners with 5–7oz tooled outers, but I'd like to branch into straps and maybe belts. From what I've read, the 225 might be a little underpowered for heavier stacks, but could still do fine with upgrades (servo motor, speed reducer, etc.). Anyone here used a 225 for similar projects? Is it worth grabbing at that price, or am I better off saving for something beefier right out of the gate?

you're getting an absolute steal in that price. but, most important thing is to test it out.
Ask the seller to let you sew a few layers of your leather on it. Listen for any weird noises, and check to see if the stitches are consistent.
As long as it's not binding up or making any grinding noises, you're in great shape. A used industrial machine at that price is always a good bet, and the 225 is a tried and true workhorse.

 

[HardcoreSteven]

@Dr4gonfruit is right that the 225 is a proven upholstery machine, and at that price it's hard to go wrong if it's in working order. One thing to keep in mind is it's a compound feed but not a triple feed, so it will handle medium leather fine but may struggle with very thick veg tan. Do you know if the seller is including the table and motor, and if so, is it a clutch or servo? Since that can make a big difference in control for leatherwork, it's important to know.