"Can you find me a sewing machine to sew leather up to 15 mm thick?"

During the last 6 months, MAS has had a number of research requests relating to sewing machines. Either a client will be looking for something to automate a repetitive task such as sewing Velcro onto a strap, or perhaps they are looking for a long neck sewing machine for a particular job. This particular request was a little more challenging.

Sewing machines to sew 15mm thick leather are just not made anymore.  The demise of the British shoe industry and the longevity of the original machines meant that machines built in the 60’s are still running, but spares are difficult to get hold of.

An exhaustive search on the Internet came up with very little.

In the first instance the sewing machine dealers we spoke to had the reaction , “How THICK?!”

A few phone calls later we were in contact with a small dealer in Lancashire who specialised in leather sewing machines for the remaining few shoe manufacturers in the UK (Rossendale Sewing Machine Company). They took it all in their stride and were able to offer 2 options to our client. A new machine, or a replacement for their current machine that hasn't been produced since the 60's.

Call the Helpdesk now on Tel: 0845 658 9600 or email: advice@mymas.org