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Best Sewing Machines For Leather
Jessica QuiltNCo
Posted by
Jessica
|
Updated on
January 31, 2023
Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.

6 Best Sewing Machines For Leather in 2023

Best durability
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JUKI DDL-8700 Industrial Straight Stitch Sewing Machine
Buy at Amazon.com
best FOR quilting projects
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Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine
Buy at Amazon.com
best for SMALL budget
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SINGER | Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine , Gray
Click for BEST PRICE

Leather is luxurious, but it’s tricky if you want to sew with it. It’s a tough and tick fabric that not all sewing machines can sew successfully. If you are going to be using leather, you’re going to need the right equipment. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. 

In this post, I will go over the best sewing machines for leather for every budget and skill level. 
Let’s dive in. 💕

1. JUKI DDL-8700 Servo Industrial

Specifications

Weight: 150 Pounds
Dimensions: 48 x 36 x 48 inches
Speed: 5,500 SPM

Features

Up to 1/2-inch presser foot lift by knee lever
Adjustable RPMs for a broad-ranging option for stitch speed
Lockstitch with an auto-lubrication system
110-volt servo motor
5mm maximum stitch length

What I Like

Ultra-Fast 
With a sewing speed of 5,500 stitches per minute this is one of the fastest sewing machines on the market. No matter how fast you are looking to go this sewing machine will be able to do. This is great for experienced seamstresses or large projects that have lots of straigh seams. 
 
Durable 
If you are looking for durable, this is as strong and reliable as they come. It comes with an all-metal frame that most sewing machines don’t have today. This is built to last with only a few plastic pieces you can be sure that it’s not going to suddenly break on you. 

What I Dislike

Heavy and Needs Table 
The Juki DDL-8700 is no joke. You’re going to need to make sure that you have a table that can withstand the weight of this machine. It weighs 150 pounds and typically needs a special, all-metal sewing machine to support it. Otherwise, you risk damaging the furniture in your home by placing this behemoth on it. 

Only Single Stitch
Like most industrial sewing machines, the Juki 8700 only comes with the straight stitch option. If you are new to sewing, then using this sewing machine can be difficult. 
Positives
Speed up to 5,500 stitches per minute
Relatively quiet when working
All metal frame makes it a durable machine 
Can stitch multiple layers
Easy to start using
Negatives
Not suitable for heavy-duty projects
Single stitch sewing machine presents limited options for beginners
Bulky and heavy

Who Should buy

Now here’s the deal: If you’re looking for durability, Juki 8700 is your perfect match.
You can have with you a machine that’s easy to manage and maintain at a reasonable cost.
This model can handle a wide array of garments such as skirts, jackets, polo shirts, etc. 

Although it limits only one type of stitch, which can be an issue if you’re on the adventurous side, the Juki 8700’s most significant advantage draws from its built-to-last design.

2. Juki TL-2010Q

Features

Adjustable RPMs for a broad-ranging option for stitch speed
Lockstitch, single-needle sewing unit with an auto-lubrication system
SPM between 200 and 1500
Servo motor ensures a smooth and quiet operation
5mm maximum stitch length
Max SPI of 6
A maximum of 1/4-inch presser foot lift by a hand lever

What I Like

Portability
The Juki 8700 and the Juki TL-2010Q are opposites when it comes to portability. The Juki TL-2010Q prides its self on being lightweight and portable yet powerful. It only weighs 25 pounds and is less than 18 inches long. 
 
Maximum Speed Control:
The speed control lever allows you to control the sewing speed for precision sewing.
You can set the speed anywhere between 200 to 1500 stitches per minute. This gives you the perfect range to handle a variety of projects. At this speed, it’s perfect for beginner and intermediate sewers but can be slow for experienced sewers. 
 
Automatic Needle Threader
Another reason why Juki TL-2010Q is excellent is its automatic needle threader.
The automatic needle threader is invaluable for those who want to sew with ease.
It pushes thread through the needle seamlessly, which helps save time and prevents mistakes.
It also has an automatic thread button that trims the thread by lightly pressing the push-button.

What I Dislike

Works Space is Small
Depending on the types of projects you are doing the workspace is a bit small. Especially given that it weighs around 25 pounds you would expect it to have a larger work space. 

Not Bright Enough 
You can’t rely on the LEDs that are included with this machine. Without proper lighting overhead it can be difficult to see. It only has three little LEDs that don’t provide enough light for comfort. 
Positives
Lightweight and portable for on-the-go sewers
Automatic trimming and threading systems
Quick speed up to 1500 stitches per minute
Allows manual adjustment of speed for your desired pacing
The machine is considerably quiet for its power and dimensions
Negatives
Expensive
Manual thread tension system is a drawback and challenging for beginners
Has only one single stitch

Who Should buy

The Juki TL-2010Q is one of if not the best sewing machines in the market for anyone who wants to do home quilting. Its sturdy design makes it last even to be considered an heirloom in your family.

The adjustable speed that’s tailor-fit for both beginners and experienced sewers makes the Juki TL-2010Q all the rage.
Best For small budget

3. SINGER 4452 Heavy Duty

SWH EDITOR’S RATING
4.9/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 15.5 x 6.25 x 12 inches
Weight: 14.6 pounds
Speed: 1,100 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Heavy-Duty
BUILT-IN STITCHES
32
PRICE RANGE
Under $300
SKILLS LEVEL
img-53
What I Like
Whether you are just beginning to sew or are a seasoned veteran, the SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 is a great all-purpose machine.
This sturdy, durable sewing machine comes with various attachments, including an embroidery arm and a built-in carrying handle for easy transport.

With the SINGER, you can tackle any project, from upholstery to quilting.
You’ll also be able to stitch through any fabric using the included accessory feet.

Once you purchase your SINGER Heavy Duty 4452, we recommend getting extra bobbins and needles so that your work never has to stop because of thread breaking. You will be able to make plenty more projects without worrying about running out of bobbins!

Read my full review of the SINGER 4452 Heavy-Duty.
PROS
High sewing speed
Works through thick fabrics with ease
Runs effortlessly
Efficient automatic needle threader
Ideal for beginners and professionals
CONS
The foot pedal is challenging to work with
Considerable plastic is used in the machine body
Thread tension cannot be modified effortlessly
Show more +

4. Singer Heavy Duty 4432

Specifications

Weight: 14.6 Pounds
Dimensions: 15.5 x 6.25 x 12 inches
Speed: 1,100 SPM

Features

Easy threading
Stainless steel bedplate
60% stronger motor
32 built-in stitches
Fully automatic one-step buttonhole
Automatic needle threader
Top drop-in bobbin with transparent cover
Drop feed with box feed motion
Adjustable stitch length and width
Free arm

What I Like

One-step stitch selection
The simple stitch selection allows you to change the stitch easily.
Needle positions available
This machine comes with at least three needle positions to choose from: inserting zippers, cording, and topstitching.
 
Automatic systems for maximum efficiency
To start with, you can adjust the stitch’s length up to 6 mm. The twin needle capability is my partner for a productive day.

What I Dislike

Uninspiring color hues
The dull color of the machine can be considered a drawback.
 
Poor lighting
Although it comes with LED light, this machine’s illumination needs improvement.
 
Hard to control motor
Due to its powerful engine, some users reported having experienced some issues in handling the machine.
Positives
32 nicely picked stitches available
Heavy-duty metal frame
Highly durable
Includes hard case for easy carrying around
Negatives
loud compared to other similar priced models 
Not wide enough surface table for larger projects
Not really friendly to beginners

Who Should buy

As mentioned above, I highly recommend this machine to advanced sewers, especially those specializing in sewing for family needs.

The Singer Heavy Duty 4432 is ideal for sewing jeans and denim, but don’t use it excessively to avoid overheating. Give it a break, or give yourself a break. It is an excellent machine for moderate sewing of jeans and denim.
Best Sewing Machine For beginners

5. Brother ST371HD

SWH EDITOR’S RATING
4.3/5
SPEED :
PRICE :
EASINESS:
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions: 17.2 x 8.2 x 12 inches
Weight: 28.2 Pounds
Speed: 750 SPM (Stitch Per Minute)
PROGRAM
Heavy-Duty
BUILT-IN STITCHES
37
PRICE RANGE
Under $250
SKILLS LEVEL
intermediate level
What I Like
The Brother ST371HD sewing machine is a great choice for experienced sewers and beginners alike. It has 37 built-in stitches, a top drop-in bobbin, an automatic needle threader, and adjustable stitch length and width for precision.

It also features a jam-resistant Quick-Set drop-in top bobbin, making it easy to thread and get sewing in no time. With its heavy-duty metal frame, this machine is built to last. It also comes with an instructional DVD so you can easily learn the basics and get started.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for an affordable machine or a more experienced sewer wanting to take on larger projects, the Brother ST371HD is a great choice. Read the full Brother ST371HD review here.
PROS
It has 37 in-built stitches to choose from
Automated needle threader function
Reasonably priced
The sewer setup is pretty easy and convenient
It can work through various types of fabric with ease
Metal needle plate and sewer chassis for durability
Low maintenance
Comes with a rubber base for grip
CONS
It’s not a true heavy-duty model
It’s not durable and stable
Low stitching speed
LED light is not bright enough
Does not come with an up/down needle button feature
Threading is complicated
Show more +

6. Janome Industrial-Grade HD1000

Specifications

Weight: 15 Pounds
Dimensions: 18.25 x 8.5 x 15.25 inches

Features

14 Stitches including a four-step buttonhole
Free accessories including four Presser Feet
Heavy-duty aluminum outer body
Built-in needle threader
Drop feed for free-motion sewing
Removable free arm
3-Piece feed dog system
Hard-sided cover included
Adjustable stitch
Automatic declutch bobbin winder
Manual thread tension control
Easy reverse lever
Stitch Selection Dial
Extra-High Presser Foot Lifter

What I Like

Friendly for beginners
I appreciate the basic stitches and the easy-to-follow instructions manual. It also has an automatic needle threading system that saves time.

Removable free arm
Let’s face it; there are times when the free arm is controlling our motions while working. With this machine’s feature, you can easily remove the free arm whenever you like, fuss-free!

What I Dislike

Limited working capacity
This machine can’t sew all types of fabrics. That is if you want to avoid jam or overheat.

Not easy threading
Its automatic needle threading system doesn’t work as efficiently as it should be.
Positives
Efficient with all its automatic functions
Designed for both beginners and professional sewers
Has extra-high presser foot lifter which is great for leather and other thick materials 
Sturdy design with an all-metal frame
Negatives
Difficult to adjust drop-in feed
Manual adjustment of tension is quite inconvenient
Bulky and can’t be moved around easily
Prone to jam and overheat

Who Should buy

Advanced sewers can make use of Janome Industrial-Grade HD1000’s healthy horsepower and durable built-up. The affordable price it comes in is just a bonus.
However, it is essential to note that this machine shouldn’t be used for thick fabrics as it is prone to jams and overheating.

With 25 years of warranty, you can exhaust the benefits this machine can offer for a long time without the what-ifs. What’s more, enjoy no-charge maintenance in its first year. Isn’t that amazing?
JessicaJessica
I’m Jessica, mother of two and passionate seamstress. From a very young age, I’ve cultivated a passion for the creative arts, from drawing, sewing and now quilting. I saw it as a way to escape, to create, and above all, to please by offering my creations around me. The desire to pass on this passion has become more and more important, this is why I’m sharing my experience and my knowledge online.
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Jessica QuiltNCo

Warning!

I am a passionate Quilter.
This means that I actually enjoy chopping up perfectly good fabric into little teeny tiny pieces and then sewing them all right back together again…
JUST FOR FUN. 😉
Jessica
Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.

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