I’m looking for a machine to sew medium to heavy weight leather.

It doesn’t come up often but I do get request to sew on leather. The lasts time I did this I used my table top machine, a Brother NX400. Of course I used a “leather” needle, but she wasn’t strong enough to the job and it put her in for repairs. I don’t want to risk any of my current newer machines on this again. I’ve heard that older machines have stronger motors and metal parts and would be able to withstand the heavy duty needs of sewing on leather. Do you have any suggestions as to what machine I should be looking for?
Thanks, Mona

Any of the old industrial machines would work great for this :D:D:D

Old Necchi machines are known for their powerful motors; they can sew through leather.

My 1974 Elna couldn't care less. Anything I can force under the presser foot, she'll sew. My 1952 Singer 301 arrived with four thicknesses of med-light weight leather under the presser foot. I personally would not use that machine for sewing leather. Any vintage all steel machine should be able to handle it. I'm sure my 1940 something Necchi would be fine, too.

Try a vintage treadle - there's no motor to worry about.

I just bought a vintage White machine called a Fair Lady that can sew through 4 layers of leather!! I'm thinking it will also sew through fingers just as easily, so I need to keep my wits about me.

My old White can do the job. I also have a vintage Domestic (treadle) that can go through anything.

Old Union Specials and Consews were what we used when I was working in a leather shop. Plan to pay at least $500.00 for them.