10 Best Sewing Machines For Creating Custom Leather Products
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Leather exudes class and ensures quality. But leather is also tough, thick, and incredibly difficult to stick a needle into.
That’s why creating custom-made fashionable masterpieces can be quite tiring, unless you have the right equipment.
A lot of amateurs try to sew by hand or use regular sewing machines with different needles. But if you want to create custom-designed leather products like a pro, the wise decision is to get yourself a non-industrial sewing machine specifically designed for sewing leather.
However, choosing the best sewing machines for leather is a task that is better left to professionals, as good options are few and far between.
That’s why our expert team has compiled this list of Top 10 Best Sewing Machines For Leather – so that You don’t have to do the work!
So keep reading this article to find in-depth reviews of some of the best sewing machines for leather available in the market today. Each of the sewing machines in our list is manufactured by the top brands in the industry and offers the best value for your money.
Also, make sure you check out our 10BestBuy® Sewing Machines For Leather Buyer’s Guide at the end of the review, to pinpoint the most suitable sewing machines for your needs, from our 10BestBuy List.
10BestBuy.com selects
High-speed sewing machine with 110 stitch applications, Built-in Needle Threader, Adjustable Stitch Length and Width, and Extra-High Presser Foot Lifter.
Janome HD1000 Sewing Machine
Our rating system
Our customer reviews are provided by consumers like you The star ratings are based on an overall rating of the brands displayed, as well as specific ratings for ease of use, purchase satisfaction, value for money and quality of service. Any customer can, and is encouraged to write a review of their experiences with these brands.
A Closer Look at the Best Sewing Machines For Leather
01.
Singer Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine For Leather
- Speed: 700 SPM
- Built-in Stitches: 200
- Weight: 12 Pounds
- Dimensions: 15.7 x 7 x 12.2 Inches
- Warranty: 5 Year Limited
Another alternate option that is worth a shot is the Heureux Sewing Machine. Although not manufactured by a premium brand, the Heureux Z6 sewing machine has garnered much appreciation from customers.
It comes loaded with features that are even better than other premium products but could be lacking in terms of efficiency.
The Heureux Z6 is an easy-to-use computerized sewing machine that is built for flexibility. It offers 200 unique stitches and is perfect for those working in the fashion industry.
Weighing just 12 pounds with dimensions of 15.7 x 7 x 12.2 inches and equipped with a carry handle, this sewing machine is easily portable.
The machine comes with an Automatic Needle Threader and a Drop-in Top Bobbin system for easier monitoring and removal. It is also equipped with an LCD screen where you can select your switches with the push of a button.
The Z6 also has an automatic clutch for bobbin winding, a drop feed system, an easy thread cutter, a snap-on presser foot, a portable handle, and along-life LED light.
Besides, it comes at an affordable price, so those who are on a budget could choose this sewing machine. However, the Heureux Z6 is not a heavy-duty sewing machine specifically designed for leather use and could only work with thinner leather.
So, professionals who are serious about creating high-quality leather products would be better off staying away from it.
- 200 stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- Easy thread cutter
- LED light
- Not specifically designed for leather
02.
Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine For Leather
- Speed: 800 SPM
- Built-in Stitches: 37
- Weight: 14.52 Pounds
- Dimensions: 7.87 x 16.1 x 12.21
- Warranty: 25 Year Limited
The Brother ST371HD is another popular choice among sewing machines for leather. Brother is also one of the most recognizable brands in the industry with a history of making sewing machines for more than 100 years.
Today, Brother is also one of the most innovative sewing machine brands, introducing the world’s first lockstitch sewing machine which adopts the Electronic Feed.
Like all Brother sewing machines, the innovation in technology is also evident in the Brother ST371HD. This heavy-duty sewing machine comes with 37 unique built-in stitches including an auto-size buttonhole.
It also comes with an automatic needle threader that pushes the thread through the needle perfectly and a jam-resistant top drop-in bobbin for easy accessibility and monitoring.
The Brother ST371HD is also a durable and reliable sewing machine with features like a metal needle plate and heavy-weight needles that add to its toughness.
It is also a free arm sewing machine that allows ease in sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other cylindrical items. The machine also comes with all necessary accessories including 6 sewing feet and an instructional DVD.
Above all, Brother is known for its exceptional customer service. The ST371HD sewing machine comes with a 25-year limited warranty and free technical support via phone, live chat or online, for the lifetime of the machine.
- Leather-friendly
- Free Arm Sewing
- 25-year warranty
- Premium Price
03.
Janome HD3000 Sewing Machine For Leather
- Speed: 860 SPM
- Built-in Stitches: 18
- Weight: 18.7 Pounds
- Dimensions: 19.8 x 15 x 10
- Warranty: 25-year Limited
The third sewing machine on our list is the Janome HD3000. Janome is a company that has its roots in Massachusetts and a history that dates back to the 1860s. Today, backed by Japanese technology, the company has grown to become an internationally recognized brand.
The Janome HD3000 offers enough quality to compete with the best brands in the category. This heavy-duty machine is quite efficient and offers a maximum speed of 860 stitches per minute.
It comes with 18 built-in stitches and a one-step buttonhole and an easy stitch selection which can be done with the simple turn of a dial. With dimensions of 10 x 19 x 15 inches and a total weight of 18.7 pounds, it is also quite portable.
One of the highlights of the machine is an adjustable pressure foot which allows you to sew a wide variety of materials including leather. The free arm capability additional allows ease in sewing cylindrical items.
It also comes with an automatic needle threader and a jam-proof top loader bobbin system for ease of use.
The accessories that come with the Janome HD3000 also offer a lot of value for money. The accessories include 2 packs of leather needles, a pack of universal needles, a pack of bobbins, a hard case cover, a ¼ inch seam foot, buttonhole “B” foot, overedge “C” foot, rolled hem “D” foot, zipper “E” foot, blind hem “G” foot, automatic buttonhole “R” foot, in addition to all other necessary equipment.
- Leather-friendly
- Free arm capability
- Automatic needle threader
- Jam-proof bobbin
- Premium Price
04.
Juki TL-2010Q High-Performance Sewing Machine
- Speed: 1500 SPM
- Built-in Stitches: 1
- Weight: 38 Pounds
- Dimensions: 25.7 x 14 x 18 Inches
- Warranty: 5 Year Limited
The next sewing machine on our list is the Juki TL-2010Q. Juki is a Japanese brand that specializes in manufacturing both industrial and domestic sewing machines.
Although the company doesn’t have a long history, it quickly made a name for it through innovation, especially computerized sewing machines.
Today, Juki ranks as one of the tops manufacturers of domestic sewing machines, competing with the likes of well-known brands like Singer and Brother.
The Juki TL-2010Q is a high-performance sewing machine constructed of aluminum die-casting to ensure industrial-grade quality.
The machine comes with advanced features such as an industrial sub-tension system, and bright white LED lighting, making it stand out when compared to higher-end products on the list.
At 38 pounds and dimensions of 25.7 x 14 x 18 inches, the Juki TL-2010Q is comparatively bulkier and heavier than the sewing machines already reviewed.
However, it offers a faster speed of 1500 stitches per minute which can also be decreased up to 200 stitches per minute using a Speed Control Lever.
In addition to these features, the Juki TL-2010Q also comes with an Automatic Needle Threader, Automatic Thread Trimmer, Knee Lifter Lever, and Quilting Feet.
But perhaps the most important feature of the machine is the Even Feed Foot that ensures its ability to produce beautiful seams when sewing difficult-to-feed fabrics like leather. All necessary accessories and warranty are also included.
- Leather friendly
- Even feed foot
- Automatic thread trimmer
- Premium Price
- Single stitch
05.
SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
- Speed: 1100 SPM
- Built-in Stitches: 32
- Weight: 14.6 Pounds
- Dimensions: 15.5 x 6.25 x 12
- Warranty: 25 Year Limited
The Singer Heavy Duty 4432 is another Singer product that makes it to our list. It is no surprise because Singer does make a lot of quality products.
An older version of the Heavy Duty 4452, you can get this beauty for a few dollars cheaper. Much like the 4452, the machine is made with heavy-duty projects in mind so it will work equally well for leather applications.
Just like its successor, the Singer Heavy Duty 4432 is loaded with innovative features. The machine comes with over 110 stitch applications for versatile sewing.
It has 32 built-in stitches and a speed of 1100 stitches per minute, making it suitable for all kinds of applications. Weighing just 14.6 pounds and with dimensions of 15.5 x 6.25 x 12 inches, the machine is also easily moveable from place to place.
Additionally, it comes with features like One-Step Buttonhole, Built-in Needle Threader, Top Drop Bobbin, Easy Stitch Selection Dial, and Adjustable Stitch Length and Width.
The Drop Feed feature helps with quilting while the Free Arm capability allows for ease in sewing hems, cuffs, and tubular objects. The Reverse Lever is also an added advantage.
The most important features for our concern, however, are the Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure and the Extra-High Presser Foot Lifter which are specifically designed to accommodate the sewing of thicker materials like leather. The machine also comes with a 25-year limited warranty and all necessary accessories are also included.
- Leather friendly
- Free arm capability
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- 25 year warranty
- Premium Price
06.
Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine For Leather
- Speed: 850 SPM
- Built-in Stitches: 50
- Weight: 10.14 Pounds
- Dimensions: 16.26 x 17.01 x 12.48
- Warranty: 25 Year Limited
The second Brother sewing machine on our list is the ST150HDH. Although manufactured by the same brand, this machine is quite different from the Brother ST371HD sewing machine and comes with a lot of features that you won’t get with the latter.
The Brother ST150HDH is a strong and tough computerized sewing machine. Weighing just 10.14 pounds it is one of the least heavy sewing machines on our list and hence the most portable. And although lightweight, the metal interior frame of the machine assures improved durability and stability when sewing at higher speeds.
It comes with speed control and a maximum speed of 850 SPM. With 50 built-in stitches, it is also the sewing machine that offers the most versatility when it comes to stitching patterns, including 5 styles of one-step.
The machine also comes with innovative features like a large back-lit LCD display that provide clear visibility of your stitch settings and a bright built-in LED light that illuminates the workspace around the needle area.
The Brother ST150HDH also features longer 7-point feed dogs with a box feed design to provide smoother feeding even with tough projects like leather.
The Brother ST150HDH also offers great value for those intending to work with leather, as it comes with 9 sewing feet and a heavyweight needle pack included.
The needle pack includes two #14 heavy-duty needles for sewing heavier fabrics such as leather. It also comes with a 25-year limited warranty.
- Leather friendly
- Box design
- 7-point feed dogs
- 25 year warranty
- Premium Price
07.
Janome HD1000 Sewing Machine
- Speed: 860 SPM
- Built-in Stitches: 14
- Weight: 16.8 Pounds
- Dimensions: 15.6 x 6.3 x 12.4 Inches
- Warranty: 25 Year Limited
The next sewing machine manufactured by Janome on our list is the Janome HD1000. Although a lesser variant of the Janome HD3000, the Janome HD1000 still packs a punch and comes at a much lower price.
It can work perfectly with leather projects just like its successor, albeit with minor features missing.
The Janome HD1000 has a heavy-duty outer body and an all-aluminum interior frame for extra durability. It offers 14 built-in stitches including a 4-step buttonhole.
The machine also allows adjustment of stitch length and zigzag width with just the turn of a dial. However, unlike the HD3000, it comes with a Front Load Vertical Oscillating Hook Bobbin.
It also has a built-in needle threader for ease of use and a removable storage compartment that turns the machine into a free arm.
The 3-piece Feed Dog system of the Janome HD1000 allows for smooth fabric feed, even if the material is leather.
The Drop Feed mechanism also allows for free motion quilting and sewing with just the switch of a lever. But most significantly, the Extra-High Presser Foot Lift is specifically designed for ease of use in sewing applications with leather.
The Janome HD1000 comes with a large list of accessories including a general-purpose foot, Blind Hemming Foot, Sliding Buttonhole Foot, Zipper Foot, Needles, Bobbins, and much more.
The machine also comes with a hard-sided cover for protection and a 25-year limited warranty.
- Leather friendly
- Extra high presser foot lift
- Drop feed
- 25 year limited warranty
- Lesser stitches
08.
Juki HZL 70HW Sewing Machine For Leather
- Speed: 800 SPM
- Built-in Stitches: 80
- Weight: 19.3 Pounds
- Dimensions: 20 x 10.5 x 14.8 Inches
- Warranty: 5 Year Limited
The second Juki on our list is the HZL-70HW sewing machine. This is an industrial-grade sewing machine that comes with box feed sewing technology that eliminates material shrinking and shifting.
This machine is equally capable of sewing through both lightweight fabrics, and also heavyweight fabrics like leather, with its improved presser foot construction.
The Juki HZL-70HW comes with 80 in-built stitch patterns including 5 buttonhole patterns and is equipped with a start/stop button that allows you to sew without the foot control.
The machine offers a wide sewing space that will help while working on larger projects. It comes with dimensions of 20 x 10.5 x 14.8 inches and a weight of under 20 pounds, making it quite portable.
As far as the technology is concerned the Juki HZL-70HW features an Automatic Needle Threader, Reverse Stitch/Reinforced Stitch capability, Adjustable Stitch Speed with a maximum of 800 SPM, Drop-in bobbin system, and One-Touch Pattern Selection at the push of a button.
The machine also features an LED light that illuminates the needle area and an adjustable needle position button for ease of use.
Overall, the Juki HZL-70HW is quite different from the Juki TL2010Q that we have already discussed. However, it is equally efficient when working with leather.
The machine also comes with all the necessary accessories including a Zipper Foot, Decorative Stitch Foot, Overcasting Foot, Blind Stitch Foot, Button Attaching Presser Foot, Buttonhole Foot, and much more.
- Leather friendly
- Box feed technology
- Adjustable stitch speed
- LED lighting
- Premium Price
09.
Bernette B38 Computerized High-End Sewing Machine
- Speed: 820 SPM
- Built-in Stitches: 394
- Weight: 21.69 Pounds
- Dimensions: 19.5 x 16. 1 x 11.1
- Warranty: 10 Years limited
Now, if you want to stray away from the usual options, The Bernette B38 sewing machine is a good choice.
Bernette is a brand of the popular Bernina Textile Group that has a history that dates back almost 130 years to 1893. The fact that this machine is Swiss-made is enough assurance for its quality and performance.
The Bernette B38 is a high-end computerized sewing machine that offers a wide range of functions.
It offers 394 different stitches, including the stretch stitch for elastic fabrics. The machine also has 8 different 1-step buttonholes, 3 alphabets, and a memory function that can store various combinations.
In addition, it also features an LED sewing light, threader, and both manual and automatic thread cutter for ease of use.
Although not specifically designed for heavyweight use, the Bernette B38 can work with heavier fabrics like leather with special heavyweight needles.
The Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure also supports the use of various fabrics. The unique double needle button helps adapt the needle to the presser foot so that neither needle will hit the presser foot and break.
The Bernette B38 as a high-end model also comes with a wide range of accessories including 8 different pressure feet (Zigzag foot: A, Overlock foot: C, Zipper foot: E, Satin stitch foot: F, Blindstitch foot: G, Button-sew-on foot: T, Open toe foot: F2, Buttonhole foot with slide: R)
and a large extension table that can be easily attached or detached.
- A large number of stitches
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- LED lighting
- Extension table
- Not specifically designed for leather
10.
Heureux Sewing Z6 Computerized Sewing Machine
- Speed: 700 SPM
- Built-in Stitches: 200
- Weight: 12 Pounds
- Dimensions: 15.7 x 7 x 12.2 Inches
- Warranty: 5 Year Limited
Another alternate option that is worth a shot is the Heureux Sewing Machine. Although not manufactured by a premium brand, the Heureux Z6 sewing machine has garnered much appreciation from customers.
It comes loaded with features that are even better than other premium products but could be lacking in terms of efficiency.
The Heureux Z6 is an easy-to-use computerized sewing machine that is built for flexibility. It offers 200 unique stitches and is perfect for those working in the fashion industry.
Weighing just 12 pounds with dimensions of 15.7 x 7 x 12.2 inches and equipped with a carry handle, this sewing machine is easily portable.
The machine comes with an Automatic Needle Threader and a Drop-in Top Bobbin system for easier monitoring and removal. It is also equipped with an LCD screen where you can select your switches with the push of a button.
The Z6 also has an automatic clutch for bobbin winding, a drop feed system, an easy thread cutter, a snap-on presser foot, a portable handle, and along-life LED light.
Besides, it comes at an affordable price, so those who are on a budget could choose this sewing machine.
However, the Heureux Z6 is not a heavy-duty sewing machine specifically designed for leather use and could only work with thinner leather.
So, professionals who are serious about creating high-quality leather products would be better off staying away from it.
- 200 stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- Easy thread cutter
- LED light
- Not specifically designed for leather
Leather Sewing Machine Buyer’s Guide
Heavy Duty Industrial Grade V Regular Domestic Sewing Machines
When it comes to personal use sewing machines, there are basically two types available in the market today – the heavy-duty sewing machine and the Regular Domestic sewing machine.
There are few differences between the two, but potentially deal-breaking nonetheless. For one, regular domestic sewing machines have smaller engines when compared to heavy-duty sewing machines.
This means they have lesser piercing power and will find it difficult to through thick and heavy materials like leather.
Heavy-duty industrial-grade sewing machines are built for extreme performance. These machines are made to last and can withstand continuous usage for long hours and as such is fit for professionals.
Industrial grade sewing machines also have longer needles and stronger needles are they are designed for use with heavyweight projects like leather. These machines also come with specialized accessories like heavyweight needles.
But most importantly, industrial-grade heavy-duty sewing machines come with specialized features like Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure and Extra-High Presser Foot Lifter which can be crucial when working with thicker materials like leather.
So those looking to make custom leather products like a professional, a heavy-duty sewing machine is the best choice. That’s why we have taken care to include only heavy-duty machines on our list.
Things To Consider Before Buying Sewing Machines
1. Stitch Speed And Adjustability
The speed of a sewing machine is calculated in stitches per minute. Various sewing machines offer various stitch speeds. The best sewing machines offer the highest stitching speeds.
For example, the Singer Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine For Leather offers a speed of 1100 stitches per minute and the Juki TL-2010Q High-Performance Sewing Machine offers a speed of 1500 stitches per minute.
These are some of the best stitch speeds available in the market today and will help you finish your projects quickly like a professional.
However, speed, which is a boon in most cases, can also become a curse if it is uncontrollable. While working with thicker and high-quality materials like leather, you do not want to make mistakes as it will destroy the material.
Trying to rectify the mistakes is difficult with these kinds of materials and will only leave it looking worse. That is why adjustable stitch speeds can come in quite handy.
2. Thick Material Friendly Features
There are many additional features in sewing machines that can specifically help with sewing heavier materials like leather. For example, the Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure can come in quite handy when working with a wide range of fabrics including leather.
The Extra-High Presser Foot Lifter can also allow further ease of use as the extra height can accommodate thicker fabrics. Some features like the Even Feed Foot in the Juki TL-2010Q High-Performance Sewing Machine ensures its ability to produce beautiful seams when sewing difficult-to-feed fabrics like leather
3. Built-in Stitches
Built-in stitches increase the versatility of the sewing machines and help you with creativity. The variety of stitch patterns can come in handy when working on varied projects.
Among the sewing machines on our list, the Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine For Leather offers the most number of built-in stitches at 50.
Those who are conservative with their designs and those who prefer to not have too many options can choose to go with the Juki TL-2010Q High-Performance Sewing Machine which offers only a single built-in stitch.
The Bernette B38 Computerized High-End Sewing Machine and the Heureux Sewing Z6 Computerized Sewing Machine do offer more built-in stitch patterns but they are not specifically designed for use on heavy-duty materials like leather.
4. Weight And Product Dimensions
Heavy-duty sewing machines come in various shapes and sizes. Although not a major factor when buying a sewing machine, an easily portable sewing machine can come in quite handy for those who have to move around a lot.
The Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine For Leather is the least heavy sewing machine on our list weighing just over 10 pounds.
Even the heaviest sewing machine on our list the Juki TL-2010Q High-Performance Sewing Machine weighs less than 40 pounds and can be easily moved around when necessary.
And as far as product dimensions are concerned, those with limited space available will do well to look for sewing machines that are less bulky.
5. Warranty
Getting a sewing machine for professional use is a huge investment. Heavy-duty sewing machines come with a high price tag and as such, you ought to get your money’s worth.
The best heavy-duty sewing machines are made with tough materials and are designed to last a long time. As such you could require continued assistance especially if you are working with heavyweight materials like leather.
That’s why most of these machines come with long-term warranties. Most of the sewing machines on our list including the Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine For Leather and the Janome HD3000 Sewing Machine For Leather come with a 25-year limited warranty. Anything lesser is not with the money.
6. Included Accessories
The best sewing machines come with all the necessary equipment includes. When you are already making a huge investment, providing the necessary accessories is the least a manufacturer can offer.
However, the best of the best among heavy-duty sewing machines come with bonus accessories that are meant to support working with thicker materials like leather.
It can be something as commonplace as heavyweight needles which are available with most of the sewing machines on our list, or it could be something like a non-stick foot for leather and vinyl with is included in the list of accessories that come with the Singer Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine For Leather.
So it is always a good idea to look out for these.
Final Words
Many hours of research and analysis went into the making of this 10 Best Sewing Machines For Leather list.
After consulting with the best sewing experts in the nation we can say with utmost confidence that each of the sewing machines that made the final cut are the cream of the crop.
We would recommend you to purchase the Singer Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine For Leather as it offers the best value for your money. This unique industrial-grade heavy-duty sewing machine is ideal for both professional and household use.
Besides, it is manufactured right here in the United States. So with every purchase, you would be supporting one of our own.
However, since needs vary, and each customer is unique, each of the remaining sewing machines is the best in their own right, and will definitely appeal to different requirements and budgets.
So all you have to do is choose the leather sewing machine that suits YOU best, based on our 10BestBuy® Buyer’s Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Making leather products is a difficult task. The biggest problem you would face while sewing leather is that there is no space for mistakes. One wrong stitch can destroy the material and make it worthless. This is because when you are stitching leather you are making a permanent and visible hole that cannot be rectified. Leather also tends to stick to the presser foot which can cause further problems. Leather sewing machines are designed to overcome these problems. The best leather sewing machines also offer a longer stitch length option as longer stitches provide a stronger and secure seam when working with leather.
The simple answer is, no. Of course, you will find a lot of tips and tricks online for sewing leather using your home sewing machine. Most of these videos and articles recommend you buy specialized accessories like foot and needles. These may work for minor patch-up work. But if you are serious about creating custom-made leather products like a professional, the only option is to get a heavy-duty sewing machine that supports leather applications.
Sewing machine needles are sized in metric and imperial. The larger the numbers, the thicker the needle. Leather applications require special needles that are thicker and longer to penetrate the leather as you sew. They are spear-shaped to ensure that the leather is cut through easily as the stitch is formed. Schmetz needles number 120 is the best choice for sewing thick leather. Schmetz S point needles are good for softer leathers, but diamond point works better for hard or dry leathers. The Schmetz Jeans & Denim 18/110/5/PKG could also work for most types of leather.
It is crucial that you use stronger treads while sewing leather. Never use threats made of cotton as the tannins in the leather will erode the thread over time. It is best to use polyester and nylon if you want to ensure longevity. Bonded nylon is a good option as it is a long thread. The bonding process it undergoes adds strength and also reduces friction which can make sewing easier. You could also any heavy-duty top-stitching threads as they will look good on leather.
When it comes to leather sewing machines, the top brands are Singer, Brother, Janome, and Bernette. Among the four, Singer stands out as the premium brand with its rich history and innovative technology. It is also an American Manufacturer. Brother and Janome are brands headquartered in Asia but have a rich history and international presence nonetheless. Bernette is owned by the Bernina Textile Group and is manufactured and headquartered in Switzerland.
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