Is an Industrial Machine Required for Bag Making?

[@RabbitCrafts]

GREAT video! Highly informative, and not boring to watch. I really think that some people just don't know a lot of the things like you talked about, especially with stitch length. I didn't anyway. Thank you again for helping the newbies out there!

[@fiercekittenz]

Machines default to 2.0 or 2.5 mm. That's waaaaay too short for bags. If you do that, it can make bags easily rip open like paper from a notebook.

[@squeallymae]

smashing seams with a mallet is so therapeutic

[@cattoes5]

I have worked on an Industrial machine for 30 years in one factory or the other. Now that I have become disabled I am down to a domestic sewing machine. I really miss the industrial machines. It's like driving a expensive sports car all your life to down sizing to a small economy car. If I could afford a industrial machine I would buy one in a heart beat. They sew so much nicer and faster than a home machine. You're right on with the thread making a difference too . Thank you for sharing your knowledge and tips .

[@rndea100]

look for a old vintage one

[@debravanzant1962]

Thank you for this video. I recently purchased a Bernina 880 and then found bag making and was just not sure I’d be able to make a bag with this machine. Now i have more confidence to at least try :)

[@meldumas8868]

Good Information. I just started making bags. Wish I had known this for one bag.

[@izzymartinez5227]

Thank You for this information, I am 71 years old and I have been sewing since I was 5 years old. I have made some of every thing, but I am just now making tote bags and purses. I have had a few of the problems you talked about and I just think you are Brilliant! Good job Girl Friend. I.M. IZZY.

[@QueenB1066]

Thank you so much for all your tips. I think my bags will come out a lot better using you tips about hammering the seams and stitch length. Glad I found you. Thank you.

[@carolgoff4317]

I feel when I purchased my sailrite fabricator machine - it was phenomenal! That was several years ago and you gotta know - I still just chuckle and smile when this machine takes on any project, any thickness and then just moves thru it. Oh thats just nice. You are correct, the price was completely do able and has made such a difference in my bag making. I even made a belt using webbing and a cool retro buckle. Never could my domestic get that job done. Yes. She takes up a fair amount of room but oh so worth it. Love your informative, fun videos. Can't believe I just discovered your channel but sure glad I did.

[@pamelajackson2498]

What made you choose the Sailrite over the juki?

[@faithfarmforever4795]

I purchased a Janome MC6650 - I LOVE it! I started sewing just iver a year ago - since we own 2 thrift stores I was able to try, singer & brother machines - they were okay BUT not that great and always frustrating..So my 1st personal use machine was an average use Janome - it was good - sewed like a dream but did cause me some difficulty with the corners of my bags. I researched and researched & Researched before deciding the Janome MC was what I was going to purchase - This machine will do anything my lacking skills will ever eant to do - hapoy sewing and thank you for this great video.❤

[@joannemonette]

I had been searching - and patiently holding back - for a very long time, because I wanted to make sure that I didn't buy something that I didn't need. I love vintage machines - but I also found that too many of them simply couldn't give me exactly what I wanted. Newer machines were ridiculously too expensive, and also couldn't really give me exactly what I needed and wanted. So, last year, I decided to take the plunge and get a truly high-end heavy duty industrial machine for bagmaking -- a Juki 1541S. Hands down, it's the most powerful machine I've ever used -- and was way cheaper than the home machine models. I agree that most people don't really need an industrial -- but I discovered that after so many attempts to avoid getting one, that I actually NEEDED ONE. Thanks for the awesome videos!!

[@pamelajackson2498]

I'm trying to decide between the JUki 1181 and 1541. Do you mind sharing why you chose the larger one? And, what size needle and thread do you use? Thanks.

[@ifigeniaharoussi]

I found that I can avoid skipped stitches by using a top stitching needle. The bigger eye makes a biggg difference when sewing multiple layers. This combo worked for me. I have a non-industrial machine where I am able to lift the foot a little furthermore, so no problem from this aspect. Additionally, rivets took of the anxiety of attaching straps, etc.

[@cynforrest]

Yup. Totally agree with you. My Janome MC6500 can handle the bigger needles and even Tex70 thread (but not always in the bobbin). That said, I’m shopping for an industrial as it’ll make my life easier AND I can sew doors for jeeps, bigger luggage, and Tents!! Thanks for a great vid.

[@tinatavares3777]

Came across this one after seeing the video on interfacing as its my next project and was struggling with what to use. love the points in this video thank you. Ive been sewing for 4 years now with my mum and our hobby has grown into a obsession. Ive done amazing stuff with my HD singer surprised at how much thickness it sews. (this last year mum and I have been buying our first Pro machines we share them, but we still use my heavy duty machines.) Like the comment on the missed stitches never thought on stich length Thank you!

[@Papillon_2010]

I have a Juki DDL8700H I use for a variety of tasks. I bought a Sailrite LSZ1 portable walking foot which will stitch through wood, I think. I was so surprised by it's power. I would love a Juki 1181 or 1508 or 1561 but "unfortunately", the Sailrite is all I could ask for and has zigzag. What I can't do with my Juki, the Sailrite has no problem with. I sew for fun although I might consider opening a side business making bags, hats and accessories in the future. I would be worried about doing that with a domestic machine. I have a Juki DX7 which a wonderful high end home machine but I would not use it to make projects with thick seams. For a bag with a lining and straps, you could easily be sewing 10 to 12 layers. I love my DX7 too much (cost more than the industrials) to do that. Great video. I am a new subbie.

[@valerierosel2399]

How many layers of leather can you sew with a juki 8700h? I was looking at that one. I try to stay at a 1mm or less, thickness of leather, because as you said, folding over, top-stitching or adding strap connectors adds up!

[@joswearingen3507]

Love my Juki DU1181n. Favorite machine in over 50 years of sewing. Bagmaking is fun with this machine, which was less money than some domestics. I rarely use my cylinder arm.

[@victorialopez526]

Thank you for this video! I’m originally a quilter, and recently jumped into making vinyl pouches and bags. I haven’t made a lot, just a couple. The first was one was a hot mess! The stitches on top looked great, but the bottom stitches were a birds nest. I will follow the advice with the needles and other tips. Thank you!

[@peggyflowers6755]

I convinced my hubby that I NEEDED an industrial machine to make bags, so I bought (with my own $$) a Sailrite Deluxe Fabricator Sewing Machine Package. I love it!

[@DeneeMUA]

This was incredibly helpful! Thank you!

[@giantpanda1001]

I got a Bernina535 after sewing for about two weeks. I mostly make bags and I feel so fortunate that I went with a nice machine as it really sews through anything like butter. I have done faux leather and cork besides normal fabrics. It is able to top stitch eight layers of cork without any problem. The more I learn about bag making, the more I realized that my starter Brother machine really would not be able to do what I am doing with bags even though I am still a beginner.

[@currypowder15]

My Mom in an interior decorator and she makes drapes, corners and does upholstery, the machine my Mom still uses the most is one from Sears she purchased in the 70's. When it comes to work and types of machines my Mom always explained to me like this," the sewing machine is still relatively new, look at all the beautiful and elaborate gowns the Queens wore. All of that was done by hand. We do use industrial sewing machines and I think the tips given here are great and very helpful. My workhorse is a Kenmore by Sears I purchased at a thrift store . I do also use Brothers as well.

[@carilynjurgeson6178]

Nice video...I just jumped to a Juki industrial because my domestic doesn't like some of my thick layers already. I am planning to recover outdoor furniture cushions and gazebo top with heavy materials. I also want to modify many of my leather handbags and maybe make some small accessories. I may try some of your tips on stitch length and needle type to remedy my multiple layers of quilting on the domestic, but anything leather, canvas or vinyl I will do on the industrial. Thanks for sharing!!

[@kimberlycooper4170]

Wow! Awesome explanation and details! I'm having to learn everything about sewing from KZbin. You have gotten a new subscriber.

[@teresadejong3011]

Great advice. I also agree that a domestic machine can do a lot. My favorite go to is an old Singer 301 though. I've tried using my shiny Janome 15000, but she's a princess meant for fancy things, not hard work!

[@michaelbujaki2462]

My machine is a 1962 Bernina 730. So far I have used it to make a set of saddle bags for a bicycle, as well as various repairs to denim pants. Not only does it have the power to punch through four layers of leather (as tested by someone else), but they have the precision to work on delicate fabrics as well. Well worth the $900 CAD that you would pay for one today.

[@paulinebennett-tamati3556]

Another great video. I'm learning so much from you :)

[@arlenemcfadden3363]

Thank you so much! I haven't made a bag (yet) but this information is certainly useful in mask making. Stitch length, jumper thingy, needle size all would have been useful had I know before struggling with my (very) inexpensive machine. Again thank you so much.

[@elainefagin513]

After steaming use a clapper. Very helpful.

[@kimmyg990]

I want an industrial machine, just because I want one. I don’t even make bags. I’m 53, been sewing forever, I’m locked up in lockdown, and I just want one. Maybe soon I will indulge myself, as soon as we get out of lockdown and I can go to try some out at a dealership.

[@Sandisongiftcompany77388]

Love your personality!!❤ You are my favorite you tube sewist bag maker!

[@lilphoenix]

I'm glad you showed the jumper tool! I stumbled on one in a little sewing shop a while back and was stunned I'd never seen it before. Such a simple tool that would have saved me a bunch of headaches in the past (and not even for bag making- even just basic twill pants can end up with pretty thick seams that your presser foot might struggle to overcome.) Also, love your hair in this!

[@fiercekittenz]

Thanks!

[@krissyleupold9792]

Thanks for the video! very informative. I want to start making bags and this and your interfacing video have helped me out a lot so far. Can't wait to see what other videos you have.

[@ritamills434]

Thank you so much for this, it answered a lot of my questions. I have been seriously considering getting an industrial machine but the size has put me off. Juki do a table top mini semi industrial. But am undecided on this. I have a brother V5 which does handle quite thick layers. It’s great to get this information from such an expert. I’ve learned a few things the hard way! I’ll definitely be watching more. Thanks again.

[@fiercekittenz]

The semi-industrial machines are GREAT. The kicker is sometimes people don't have room for more than one machine and a semi-industrial isn't really going to have zig-zag or stretch stitches. That's why I made mention of the HD machines, because they're heavy duty but also have traditional stitches other than a straight stitch.

[@bustopherjones2285]

Sailrite's Ultrafeed is about as small as you can get in a table top industrial. As noted, most industrial's are straight stitch only. Unless they are a specialty stitch uni-task machine.

[@bustopherjones2285]

The Ultrafeed LSZ-1 can do zig-zag.

[@Nclk619]

Wow! What a great video for someone starting in any business, really. The Pobox tip is gold. Your return policy is fantastic. Thank you1!! I personally think industrial lockstitch mechanical machines are the easiest thing to deal with, and I am not a professional industrial sewer by any means. IMO, frustration holds people back and make them give up doing something, and sewing in a cylinder arm lockstitch for making bags is no brainer, plus they are not expensive as the fancy electronic home machines. .

[@betford2]

I love your videos! They are so helpful and informative.

[@jessicamarsh9779]

I have a domestic machine. I just started sewing the last 6 months (I consider myself a newbie lol idk if I really am any more bc I’ve literally sewed EVERY SINGLE DAY since I started). When I started, I honestly had ZERO idea what I was looking for. I did a little research into machines and brands and found that Singer and Brother are fairly reliable brands for domestic’s (I knew absolutely ZERO about industrial 😂). I got EXTREMELY lucky with the machine I got. It’s a Singer and it handles quit a bit of layers. It’s not a HD or SD (that I know of anyways). It’s actually a quilting machine. I use it for bags (I’ve recently found I love making bags!). I’ve made 3 Diedelbug Mini mini bags. The first two I made for my kids just basic cotton to get familiar with the pattern. Then I made mine using vinyl and cotton. Using vinyl for the main source of the outside of the bag. I had a bit of trouble sewing the side panels (which I lined with Decovil instead of fleece) onto the gusset but I got it done. I had to sew down one side then come up the other to meet the seams but it’s worked. Lol idk if I will make that bag like that again with my machine though. But I will say a bigger needle (size 16) seriously made a HUGE difference.

[@martafeliciano1753]

Great tips, 2 👍🏻👍🏻 up. I used my domestic Babylock Brilliant when I started bag making and it works wonders. Since I use my Brilliant mainly for clothes making I went ahead and got myself a Babylock Accomplish. I can’t ask for more, it’s the perfect machine (mpo) for bag making.

[@joycelondon1639]

Thanks for sharing from Atlanta Ga USA helpful 👀 next time

[@abigailmorris1184]

SO helpful. I am subscribed. Thank you for this video.

[@wizdom-1684]

Thanks so very much for making this video. Quite informative. Definitely need a rivet machine as I am into making market bags. A very new beginner.

[@merralindagoddard9530]

I am going to try to put a 16 needle with a little bit thicker, stronger thread, to sew more material or thicker layers and increase my stitch length and see how that goes before I make a decision whether or not I need to buy a stronger machine. Thanks for this invaluable info ❤

[@kathrynbrandon5212]

I have a small handheld machine. It seems to do most of the work so far. I got it at the dollar store for $5.☺ I wish I could upload a picture of it it's about the same size is my staple gun! I find this hilarious due to the fact I am trying to make all kinds of things with this new Cricut metallic paper but I refused to use the expensive products to apply it. Thank you for teaching me some very valuable info!

[@SparkyOne549]

I have a singer fashion mate made in Italy in the early 70’s. It is heavy, absolutely no plastic inside. I use it for denim, canvas etc. I make bags with it. I love it, but it’s slow sewing, which is fine for really thick seams or fabric. I need to upgrade the motor, it need to look into it. I have a Janome 740dc that I only use for garment making.

[@vinetgrenades]

just getting into sewing and your tips seem so good. this is exactly what i was looking for

[@fiercekittenz]

Awesome! I have some suggested channels on my main channel page near the bottom if you want to check out others too! I like to get different perspectives on how to do something, so never limit yourself to one creator!

[@dianne20010]

I have a Juki DDL-8700 servo industrial straight stitch sewing machine ,servo motor with table and legs

[@1fredricka]

Thank You, The best information!!! Surprised you do not have over 100,000 subscribers!!

[@nt313]

I love this and your other videos. I am starting to work with leather so while the walking foot on my domestic was doing ok - powerhouse Janome it’s time for industrial. However the walking foot when I tried it marked my leather. Is my only option to go for a compound or is there a way. Also a lot are suggesting I need a cyclinder arm ?? They are not easy to get where I live so wondering how well you can get the finish on cross body and tote bags for the top stitching ?

[@sasheljennings3108]

Thank you for sharing this video. I’m a bag maker and I’m ready to go heavier with the machine. No need as you said for an industrial so I’ll be looking into the HD domestic machines. ❤

[@fiercekittenz]

I also have a Janome HD9 and it is soooo gooood.

[@melizahernandez8897]

I just found your channel. And I am so grateful I did. Great video! I learned a lot from this video. 😊

[@suezeeq12]

Thanks for this! I bought a BabyLock Jubilant having only sewed like one thing in my life and now I find out I love making bags and I fight with this thing constantly. I think I have Juki envy :)

[@fiercekittenz]

They're not terribly expensive. The problem is SPACE. It comes with its own table and it's about 200 pounds. I had to hire a piano mover to come bring this thing in from the garage :(

[@ParchCraftAustralia]

I’ve recently started making bags and wallets using my Brother PQ1500SL straight stitch machine and if I go really slowly I’ve been able to get through all the layers using vinyl etc.

[@jeniferlarot4823]

How much is that gud.quality

[@ParchCraftAustralia]

@@jeniferlarot4823 im sorry I am not sure what you mean Jennifer i have recently bought a compound feed industrial machine but I still like to use my Brother machine as well.

[@anelramirez7403]

Hello! I really like your channel and videos. I have a question: What do you think about cylinder arm machines? Are they really necessary? Thank you in advance!

[@ltyrell405]

I am finding it hard to sew different weights of fabric together and combined with webbing straps or zips sandwiched between, the line of stitches, even when I go slowly, can wnd up going awry!

[@Tenita79]

So informative. Thank you

[@geridine1]

Wonderful Video! (As are ALL your videos!) Very informative and answers many questions! Thank you!

[@nancycarr8569]

This video has helped me tremendously! I have a Husqvarna Viking Tribute machine and was having trouble with it skipping stitches on thick layers. I'll try using a 14 or 16 needle. Also, I've just discovered rivets! Amazing! Thanks for making this video. You are always so fun to watch! You are my "Go to" for bag making questions!

[@karengeorge9039]

Thank you, just found your video. It's hard when you don't know where to start and have no options for classes in your area. I have a Brother Innovis BQ3050 quilting machine. I now think it can handle bags as long as I make some changes in my process. Oh, and I will be watching more of your videos!

[@fiercekittenz]

It will probably handle some very basic bags, but no vinyl. I had a Viking machine for the longest time and its motor burned out while I was live streaming after I attempted to make a vinyl wallet LOL!!!

[@sujeybermudez9947]

Thanks so much for helping love your videos

[@lynnodonnell4764]

I actually have an antique hand tool that's used for pressing seams buy flattening the fabric

[@paulabhandmade9592]

Love your videos!

[@trisasardar6546]

Can you please show us how we can dye the DIOR like bags in house

[@jazzykreativekinect]

Thank you so much for this video soooo helpful!

[@elimelart]

i have janome xv5, and its even do not move linen with weight 100g/m2, but i use right needle. just trying to stich together with zipper. and thinking about get a new heavier and powerful one, but not industrial yet, because still learning and dont have money for it

[@fiercekittenz]

Do you have a budget or something you want to save up for?

[@elimelart]

Yes i have a budget. Im between tl2010q and du1181n. Them i can afford. But only one right now.

[@zarabell398]

super useful advice, thanks!

[@fiercekittenz]

Glad it was helpful!

[@georgycolson2729]

Thank you! You explain things very well

[@davisitta]

Thanks for your video. It was really helpful. I have a few questions for you. - what is your opinion on sailrite lsz-1? - what is the difference between denim and heavy duty needles? - can you please send a link to the tool you used to sew through thick layers of vinyl? Thanks!

[@fiercekittenz]

I wish I could speak on the Sailrite machines. I don't have any experience with them, though many in related bag groups have used Sailrite's over Jukis in the past since they don't require being embedded into an industrial table. For the demin vs heavy duty question: Denim is just the fabric and the needles I mention are coined "Denim" needles since they're thicker, stronger, and have a longer eye meant for dealing with heavier layers of thick fabrics. A lot of people think they need to use Microsharp or Leather needles with vinyls and layers. They won't work correctly. The Leather needles, for example, have little blades on either side. If you used that on vinyl or woven fabrics, it would shred it up and weaken the seams! Heavy Duty is usually how brands will mark their machines as being capable of handling several layers of thick fabrics like canvas, denim, vinyl, or duck cloth.

[@davisitta]

@@fiercekittenz Thanks for your reply! Regarding the needles Singer for example has Heavy Duty needles (www.amazon.com/dp/B00114Q99K/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_ZzenEbJGXZPGJ) and Denim needles (www.amazon.com/dp/B0018NCMTA/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_szenEb1EFQQ10). Are they basically the same? Would you mind sending me the link for the tool you used to level the presser foot with thick layers of vinyl? Thanks!

[@fiercekittenz]

I don't use (nor recommend) Singer needles. I only use Schmetz or Organ. The seam jumper tool can be found here: www.amazon.com/FQTANJU-Clearance-Plate-Button-Presser/dp/B076XY16YL/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=seam+jumper&qid=1580507449&sr=8-2

[@Papillon_2010]

Camila, I have a Sailrite LSZ1. It is sooooo powerful. I can hardly believe it. It is no frills (I did get the premium package) but it is a workhorse. I sew marine grade vinyl and canvas and thick duck canvas. I am sure the Juki 1500s are as good or better but I LOVE my Sailrite. Any other questions, just ask.

[@gstmist9362]

Papillon 2010 hi, was thinking about those machines, I have a question, did yours come completely assembled both machine and table? Is this a semi industrial or an industrial? Thanks.

[@cathypeterson2874]

Hi, I loved this video. What is the Juki machine that was shown on this video. The industrial Juki , with the table? Thanks

[@fiercekittenz]

That's my DU-1181N. You can get them pre-built and shipped freight packed to your home. I used to think machines like this were not accessible to your average homedweller, but really they are! Here's a few places you can get one with good service and support (I'm not affiliated with any of these companies): Sunny's Sewing Machines: sunny-sewing-machines.myshopify.com/ Sewing Gold: sewinggold.com/

[@jebeljewel1210]

What about a large Bernina machine? Would like your opinion on this brand.

[@Robin-qx5ct]

I just LOVE your videos

[@fiercekittenz]

Thank you so much!

[@MindfullyMindy]

Thank you. The ppl on r/sewing had me feeling like I had to start with semi-industrial to get in the biz. This gave me back my wind 🌬. Xo

[@ruthwilson7451]

That was an interesting video. I have the juki TL 2000 machine and sometimes I am not sure what to fabric to use with what needles order thread so it's a little bit confusing if you want to make canvas bags with the cotton webbing handles.

[@Creativemindandhands]

Thank you for all of your expertise. I swear your the best🤗🤗🤗

[@lalimiller-castro4877]

Thanks for the tips! I'm about to attempt the Magdalena Circle Bag with my domestic. I'm sure these suggestions will come in handy :)

[@dianne20010]

And I have a singer heavy duty HD6800 computerized sewing machine can I use this one to make bags and use what you talking about

[@CraftwithTekoa]

i tried making a bag with layers on a non industrial and it was very hard cause it doesn't rise up as high as the industrial machine and you don't need 3 hands to pull stuff in and out. so the industrial machine makes your life easier.

[@jen_crochetfun]

I am trying to sew on straps and the needle won't pick up the bobbin thread. I tried a larger needle, but it won't go through at all. I will get a denim needle tomorrow and see if that helps. Thanks for the tip.

[@fiercekittenz]

Yep, definitely need a longer needle for thicker layers!

[@frankdearr2772]

Great topic, thanks 👍

[@mariannem8419]

My #1 goal is perfect, straight stitches that are the same size. It's what I notice about your bags and other high-end bags. I sometimes use faux leather and faux fur. Am I right to think that, realistically, my only alternative is the Juki walking foot (DU-1181N) to achieve my goal? In my experience, nothing will make up for stitches not looking perfect, and I do not want to worry about it. Thank you.

[@okiedoke6373]

Get what you said about carrying that thread I've got an old Kenmore I'm not sure what the threat is I get it from Hobby Lobby it is an upholstery thread this machine carries it no problem but I want to invest in a bigger machine I don't sew for a living I do welding fabrication so it's hard for me to spend money on something that's not going to make money if that makes sense

[@valerierosel2399]

I got to the very last step of a hobo bag trying to close a seam with the strap connectors (using leather) and my Heavy Duty Singer said NO. I had to use rivets and that just made me so sad. Amazing Italian leather. Everything was sewn perfectly, and then that. I either have to avoid that swoon pattern or buy an industrial. I am still sad about how perfect the bag could have been. Anyway, I just sew for pleasure and sell to a small boutique store here in Italy. Over here, a Jack or Pfaff machine seems to be the popular brand. So no one is Juki shaming me 😂

[@xoKayefox]

I know this is kind of old(er) but what would you say about semi-industrials? At that point should I just take the leap for an industrial? Also definitely checking out that Brother ST150HDH for now!

[@fiercekittenz]

You can use one, certainly, but I feel like if you're going to pay that much for a semi-industrial, you might as well go all in.

[@xoKayefox]

@@fiercekittenz Thank you so much for the reply! That makes perfect sense!

[@likedontcostmoney5595]

Amazing video

[@DO-po3nv]

What do you do if the industrial needs repair and or maintenance? Even with a warranty it seems like it would be very pricey to ship an industrial long distance. There are not even many places that sell Juki let alone repair the industrial.

[@fiercekittenz]

I asked my local sewing machine shops. They have repair people on call that can handle repairs for a variety of machines. Before investing, make sure to talk to your local shops to see if they can recommend someone for an industrial.

[@jenvieira4866]

Hey there. Did you end up doing a video on your Juki? I need to upgrade...

[@fiercekittenz]

I did not! :( I actually need to rerecord the threading video. I goofed up a part of that and have had it sitting unlisted for a while now.

[@bonbonmonel9571]

Thank you for this super informative video. On your Janome Continental M7 what is the largest needle that can be used and the thickest thread? Again thanks for you great videos.

[@Tiffany-l2c]

I’m having a hard time making bags with my Elna Excellence 680+. I don’t know if I’m the problem or it just isn’t cut out for bag making. Very frustrating.

[@clothingalterations]

Great ideas

[@welshwitch2126]

I have a Janome HD9. It’s a decent workhorse (it will get finicky and skip stitches or hesitate at times) but I HATE that it doesn’t have good foot clearance. A couple of layers of vinyl, cotton, and foam will barely fit under the foot. I really don’t understand why it was designed that way when they sell you on “it can sew through 6-7 layers of denim!” Well, maybe, but you have to be able to get it under the dang foot first. I’m seriously considering an industrial. I’ve been a quilter for years and have my travel machines and fancy embroidery machines (too many- I need to downsize my machine collection😬) but after Covid layoff at age 65, I thought I’m DONE so I retired. I wanted to learn new skills and got into bags. I’m officially addicted and now friends actually want to buy my bags😱. I said no custom work- I don’t want to get stressed over anything. If I make a bag and you like it and I’m not planning to keep it, I’ll sell it to you. I’m at the point where I’m already thinking about the next bag I want to make before I’m finished with the one I’m working on😆. AND, the kicker is, I’ve mentioned industrial to my husband before. Yesterday he was telling me about this video he watched where some guy was making car upholstery with a really cool sewing machine that had a really cool foot (the walking foot) that fed the leather like it was going through butter! I think that’s my sign that he’d be okay with me getting an industrial. Besides, it’s my money😂

[@fiercekittenz]

I JUST bought the Janome HD9. You're right, it doesn't have a lot of clearance, but I didn't get it for bags. I got it so I could plow through lightweight fabrics faster. I have my first ever craft fair coming up. I've sold online and consigned for years, but in-person is new to me. I need to crap out a LOT of potholders.

[@WarlockOfWiFi]

Think I learned enough to sew my own :) .

[@GigaKitten]

I'm attempting to start sewing bags on a Juki HZL F600 and it's... not going great so far T__T I think it's a thread issue right now (hoping, anyway). I just wanna sew, man. Thank you for these tips!! Can't afford an industrial (my current machine was gifted from my father) but from what I've been seeing, it should work fine on heavy duty materials. Fingers crossed... Where did you get that Animal Crossing fabric tho? >.>

[@fiercekittenz]

The AC fabric came from Cosmic Fabric Creations :)

[@annguglielmino8989]

Vintage Singer 403A will sew leather. The old vintage machines are tough as nails with super strong motors. Relatively inexpensive as well. Might be a good option if you want something stronger but don't have the $$ or room for an industrial. I have a Singer 301 which does really well in thick layers. My 403A is still being cleaned and tuned up. 301 was free and the 403A was $75 at a thrift store. Both came with tables. Even with buying new cords and getting them cleaned and tuned they were pretty cheap.

[@fiercekittenz]

Old Singers were SO good. They just don't make them like that anymore :(

[@lorrainepascoe1513]

Hi I have a juki TL 2010Q it’s a semi industrial machine is that a good machine to make bags on. I am having trouble with shipped stitching also looping on the bottom of what I am sewing.. I am using a #14 or 16 needle. Please help Thank you Lorie

[@fiercekittenz]

I am not familiar with that machine, but have you tried using longer stitch lengths too?

[@DianaCasassa]

Where did you find your walking foot for your industrial? I have a singer industrial and would like to find the walking foot for it.

[@fiercekittenz]

It came with it! The walking foot is built into this one.

[@DianaCasassa]

@@fiercekittenz I didn't understand that it actually was a walking foot industrial machine. Thank You

[@merihera9456]

Can I get answer please...must I buy good sewing machine for sew bag or just learn sewi bag with my janome hd 3000. Because even just use this machine I cannot sew bag pack and even normal think fabric the needle cannot go though. I think a lot about to buy. I am new in sewing bag. Thank you for answer.

[@fiercekittenz]

No you do not need an industrial machine to sew bags unless you're going to get into SUPER thick stuff like marine vinyl and leather.

[@merihera9456]

@@fiercekittenz thank you so much for answer me mum.

[@cindynewcomb7139]

Thank you!

[@handcuppo569]

Question...! - if I want to make a backpack should I grab a Industrial?, or a Domestic Heavy Duty is fine? - if industrial is necessary for backpack, can anyone recommend me Industrial machines that can do both Straight and Bartack stitches? coz : - I am aiming atleast the machine can do straight stitch and bartack stitch, and the material I am gonna use are Canvas, Ballistic Nylon D1680 and D600-D1000 polyester...

[@fiercekittenz]

- Depends on the size of the backpack. You'll want to use heavier threads for sure if it's a larger bag, otherwise as soon as they load it up (and they will), the straps could snap under pressure. - I suggest talking to Sewing Gold about industrials. They're really responsive and knowledgeable!

[@clarekalaluka3659]

How can I do if the willow is stuck

[@davecolburn1378]

Yeah, but, but, but now I have to admit that I don't _need_ an industrial machine, only that I _want_ one..... Could you please record a new video showing the absolute NEED to have an industrial machine for making bags please (and then, of course, take this one down and erase it and any copies that you may have laying around)? My conscience, and more importantly, my lovely wife, need further assuagement in this regard... Perhaps a title like "Dave Absolutely Positively Needs an Industrial Sewing Machine to Make Bags or the World May End as We Know It"

[@fiercekittenz]

LOL... I like you. :P

[@Papillon_2010]

Dave, just be like me and buy 7 sewing machines for no reason whatsoever. Embrace your obsession. I actually think you do NEED an industrial if you are going to be making bags regularly. I think home machines are not cut out for this for the long haul. Just do it!!!!

[@HatsuneJavi]

Please don’t enable my sewing machine addiction. I have an HD singer, and 2 different sized embroidery machines, and wanna eventually get a serger 🤣😭

[@terriesa9883]

Yes! Covid has created a monster of me. It started with masks, then I was bored and found bag making. Then I needed a better machine and got a juki tl18 haruka, should have gone industrial. So now i have 3, brother cs6000, kenmore 385, the juki, and… This morning, i want to go see a vintage singer 15 i found for sale on FB. It’s calling to me… just get the industrial and call it a day.

[@elizabethclaiborne6461]

Most industrials are for garment sewing;, the difference is operating hours. Domestics are built for a certain level of use (intermittent) while that word industrial means factory use. They’ll run 24/7 for years with maintenance. So you want the correct industrial machine. If you sew 8 hours a day, you’ll wear out a domestic. People think an industrial is a tractor when most are a bus. Leather kills domestic machines. It’ll mess up the timing, sometimes fatally. It voids warranties. But that’s another subject.

[@SlytigerSurvival]

I think if someone is very serious into sewing, then consider getting at least a portable walking foot or drag foot sewing machine. If you are super cheap, the 100$ Chinese hand crank shoe cobbler works great, has good clearance, takes almost any needle size, but is a pain to thread and wind bobbins on. The Rex or yamata sailrite clones can work if you are not wanting to spend a fortune,. You can always join the hype and get a sailrite. If you have money and are dead serious, then get the Juki 1508, Cobra class 4, or juki /Thor 1541. I went with the Thor 1541 and might get a sailrite leathermaker in the future

[@betford2]

I used an industrial machine for 13 years at Disney, and now with my domestic machine I feel like I'm watching paint peel, but If I buy another machine my kids will think I'm running a sweatshop!

[@fiercekittenz]

I am green with jealousy over you having worked for Disney!!! I only sew and create content for fun, but I'd probably drop everything for Disney! I know how you feel about a domestic machine. The only reason I downgraded from the Janome M7 to the Janome HD9 was because I felt like the M7 was too computerized for me. Also I didn't use half of the stitches. Totally wasted on me!

[@betford2]

@@fiercekittenz I envy your equipment! I have a Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 which I bought on Amazon, and even though I know it would be a brick if it ever quit working with no authorized service centers that work on it around here, but I love it! Also have a vintage Singer 15-90 which I also love, plus a Singer HD 4423, a Cover stitch, Simplicity portable blind hemmer and a Brother serger (hence the sweatshop accusation)😁 but Alas! no industrial machine. Besides the speed and power, the thing I miss most about not having one is they don't make 'toothpick" presser feet for domestic machines. Yes, Disney was a fantastic place to work. That was 25 years ago when I left. Costuming dept has been gradually outsourcing to avoid paying benefits. Unfortunately, it's the way of the world.

[@sahe2983]

IS THE JUKI DDL 555 OK FOR SEWING BAGS?