How to: SEWING A PATCH ON A HAT [Industrial post bed sewing machine, Consew 228R-11-1]

Hi! I'm Sean owner of the shop Prodigal Son Apparel. I purchased an industrial sewing machine specifically for sewing my custom patches onto all types of hats. The heat press just wasn’t cutting it. No matter how many ways I tried I couldn't get away from the permanent crease marks left on the hats by the press, making them unsalable. So after much research, and a lot of thought, I took the leap and made the purchase of an Industrial Post Bed Sewing Machine. I love it! Now I’ve got professional results, with stitching that really helps make my patches pop! Now I have a finished clean look and stitching that gives my patches that extra edge. A product I’m proud to sell at my shop!
Link to my video die cutting my patches: • Die cutting my leather...
SEWING MACHINE - Consew 228R-11-1 Post Bed Sewing Machine: www.goldstartool.com/consew-2...
SPEED REDUCER - www.goldstartool.com/speed-re...
NEEDLE - Groz-Beckert 134 - Size 120 / 19 - LR Point - a.k.a. 134 KK - GEBEDUR - 10 Pack: www.thethreadexchange.com/miv...
THREAD - Nylon - Size 138 - Dark Mahogany (Fil-Tec) - Bonded - Nominal 4 Oz Spool - 750 Yards: www.thethreadexchange.com/miv...
310 Neoweld Cement High Strength Adhesive - www.springfieldleather.com/Ce...
Visit our site to check out our apparel line:
psapparel.com/
Facebook:
/ prodigalseankearney
Instagram:
/ prodigalsonapparel

[@justinwilliams8746]

Great work, Sean! Thanks for the links!

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thanks for watching!

[@Blackgold410]

I love your work bro

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thanks bro! I enjoy making them. Just sold one of my hats to someone in Germany, so that's a cool feeling!

[@josuegalan2230]

Thanks so much for this video. It's super helpful that you take the time to explain what you have learned. I'm in the same situation with using a heat press machine for applying patches. I'm not getting results that I can be proud of. I have never subscribed to a channels but I'm definitely subscribing to your channel. I hope that helps you in some sort of way.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Yeah, I just couldn't sell a hat to someone with creases, and always left wondering if the patch stayed on. I'm proud to sell my hats now and have gotten a lot of positive feedback.Thanks for your feedback, I really appreciate your support!

[@michaeltlays1293]

Idk why but this is therapeutic to watch,, stitching a leather patch to a hat lol

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Ha! Yes, I get it. Kinda therapeutic to actually do the stitching.

[@Byangelinamaria]

Thanks for the Video, I had the same issue....great machine.🙂

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thanks! It was a good purchase! Still gets lots of use.

[@rcamoonpie648]

First off… What’s on those patches is the perfect message that everyone needs!🙏 I enjoyed your video and will be subscribing. I’ve recently purchased a new cylinder arm and a postbed machine and am looking forward to the accessibility they will provide to do bags and etc.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thank you for the great feedback! Jesus is the reason I started doing the screen printing/leather work and to whom I owe everything. Just a way to add a little more salt n light to this world! I appreciate your encouragement.

[@rcamoonpie648]

@@prodigalsonapparel You’re Welcome and keep up the great work! Yes Jesus is the only way!

[@stacylambeth9883]

Hey there... Just wanted to say Thank You So Much for this very informative video! My business partner and I have a Fishing Apparel Business that we started a few years ago and are planning to add some leather patch hats into the mix. We have purchased a Highlead Industrial Model 810 Machine from a local dealer out of Dallas and an OM Tech 60 Watt Laser Cutter/Engraver for our leather patches. After initially playing with the 810, we decided that we would be better served with a gear reducer as well. Thought about building one, but decided just to order the one in your description (seemed faster and easier) Anyway, just wanted to give you a shout and say "Thanks Again" for taking the time to share your knowledge! Love your work!

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thank you for the great feedback! I hope to get some more videos up soon. Just to many irons in the fire at the moment...I do love the idea of getting yourself the OM Tech 60 Watt Laser Cutter/Engraver. I've been looking at similar lasers myself and want to eventually invest in something of the like. I really want the option of being able to make multiple designs without having to order a stamp for each design. Even though I do love how my stamped leather looks as a finished product I think a laser would be ideal for a broader market and more designs. Thanks again for the posting the comment. Best wishes on your plans!

[@stacylambeth9883]

Hey Sean... quick question.. When you installed the speed reducer, I understand that the pulley from the top of the machine and the 2 inch pulley on the reducer line up for the 1st belt to run in a straight line. My question is did you have to move the motor over in order for the 2nd belt coming of the 6 inch pulley to properly line up with the motor pulley? or is the belt running at an angle? Thanks!

[@prodigalsonapparel]

@@stacylambeth9883 Hi Stacy, My servo motor did end up moving as much to the right as possible to better line up with the smaller pulley. I think you need about 3/4"-1" of movement. My motor mounting hardware did allow for some play. But even with it moved as much as possible I'm at a slight angle. Hopefully you've got a little play on your motor to allow some movement without re-drilling anything.

[@Factory928AC]

So rad! 🤟🏾

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thanks!

[@AhmedAboudGP]

Thanks for sharing

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Absolutely!

[@GohuntingGofishing]

Good video 👌

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thank you!

[@khristlike7777]

God bless brother

[@prodigalsonapparel]

He has, and He does! Thank you brother.

[@woogdesigns]

Hey Sean, great video man. Is this set up still working well for you? Looking at a bunch of different options and this seems great. Especially with the speed reducer. Thanks so much for making this video.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Yeah, its been great! I've had no issues with it. The speed reducer is a must for me. You get so much more control and extra torque. I've been meaning to get a video of the reducer install up on KZbin. Just have been so busy its been hard to find time. Hopefully in the next week or so. But yeah, I pleased with the machine. No regrets.

[@TheMartyb87]

Looks good bro! I use a post bed sewing machine for hats too! I wish I could figure out a way to get rid of roller foot marks.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thanks man! Yeah, initially I was concerned about the roller marks, now I kinda like them. I've convinced myself that the roller marks give the patches a little extra character. I have found that some other leather items (like key-chains) that I stained after sewing, the marks are greatly reduced and in some cases gone completely. Maybe a little moisture along the edge with a Q-tip might help?

[@TheMartyb87]

I was using a shoe patcher sewing machine before, I modified the walking foot and put shrink wrap around the toe and it worked great! I’m thinking about buying an extra roller foot for the post bed machine and try plasti dipping it and see how that works.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

@@TheMartyb87 Good idea. That plaster dip has some tack to it. You just might be on to something there.

[@brandontaaffe2780]

Great video thank you! What size patches do you lean towards for height and width, min and max? This one on your vid looks tip top

[@prodigalsonapparel]

The oval are 3 1/8" wide. Ive moved toward rectangle patches for a couple of reasons. They measure at 3 1/8" wide x 2 1/8" tall

[@Potatocustom]

I hope you are having a blessed new year so far. Just wanted to let you know I just bought a post bed with the reducer based on your video. I feel it will make it a lot easier and faster. I plan to do leather and custom sublimation patches. I am sure it has been asked before, but what needles and thread are you using? Or do you have a link as to where you purchase your needles and thread by chance? Thank you in advance for any help

[@prodigalsonapparel]

I use a 138 bonded nylon thread, and size 19 needle the majority of the time. I get most my needle supplies from here www.thethreadexchange.com/

[@TheNechesRiverLife]

Hey : ). I sent an email too with a couple questions. Also wanted to know if the post bed leaves a mark if you use a flat patch without the grooves?

[@caseylail]

Hello sir. I really need your help on how to thread this machine. I recently bought one just like it and instructions aren’t very good. Thank you for the video. A video on how to thread it would be awesome, thanks.

[@BENVY]

Excellent video. Now that you've had it a while, do you still need the reducer? How long does it take you to do a hat now?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

I can do a little over 20-30 an hour. Maybe more. I still use the reducer. You can still increase the speed with the reducer, just not as fast as without. I coudn't imagine full speed without a reducer.

[@patticantrell7049]

Thanks so much for the video. I am considering purchasing this machine. Where did you buy it? I do embroidery and quilting and I think this will add a service to my customers.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

www.goldstartool.com/

[@Hatmaker2022]

Hello I find your videos very helpful. As a matter of fact this is the exact sewing machine I will be ordering this week for my hat business. Is there a roller for this sewing machine that does not mark the edges of the leather? I was wondering if they make a smooth roller. Also did you order the machine with the table and speed reducer from the same place you have listed in the description? Thanks, I have never sewn a day in my life and this seems to be what I need. God Bless

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Sorry about the delay. Im not here that much anymore. Initially I was worried about the marks but now I like them. They give the leather a more authentic look. Ive never had a complaint and have done thousands of hats. I think at first I looked into the same thing but the grip actually helps the leather along. You need the traction. Personally I wouldn't worry about it much. You can control the pressure a bit to reduce the marks if you like. God bless you to brother!

[@alexsantana7993]

Great video! You do a great job of explaining important details. I am looking into a sewing machine for patches on hats as well. I currently do embroidery. If you were to start over again, would you still go with this machine? Thanks!

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Yes! Im very pleased with it! Its been a great machine so far. The pulley reducer is a must for the machine and I highly recommend it!

[@alexsantana7993]

@@prodigalsonapparel sweet! I just got a quote for a consew machine and speed reduced. Would I be able to show you what is included in my quote to be sure I am getting the necessary equipment? Thank you! 🙏🏽

[@prodigalsonapparel]

@@alexsantana7993 Awesome! Sure, send me an email at [e-mail]

[@prodigalsonapparel]

@@alexsantana7993 Yes! Just send me what ever info you have to my email. I'm at [e-mail]

[@sethp5640]

Great vid! Thanks for sharing. Do you know if this machine has the capability to stitch thru the plastic of the snap back? We’re thinking of inserting centerfold labels tucked on the left side of the strap and mesh. I know you need a powerful machine to do that. Thanks again.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

I've never tried it. Possibly with the gear reducer install on it which gives you more torque it could go thru it. The most Ive done is some 5-6oz veg tan leather thru the mesh with no problem,

[@sethp5640]

@@prodigalsonapparel thanks for the response. My guess is it def could as most of these types of machines are doing thick materials. I’ll give the company a call. I’ve always wanted one of these.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

@@sethp5640 If it works let me know. I like the idea.

[@panioloprinting]

@@prodigalsonapparel Will do! 🤙🏽

[@boriscerda5474]

I really appreciate it the info on this video, I have a quick question would you happen to share the link to get the thicker needles I’ve ordered some but they were too long for my industrial machine it’s a Ks-820

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Heres a link to the company I use. From the link you can search the needle and thread you should use by type of machine. www.thethreadexchange.com/miva/merchant.mvc?Store_Code=TTE&Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=ndl-sys

[@rcsports06]

Hey there, liked your video so much I bought this machine and it was just delivered this week. I was wondering how you figured out how to set it up? We have been doing embroidery for a decade but this is our first sewing machine and we have no idea. Thanks!

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Hi Reece. If you want to email me at [e-mail] I'll see where your at with it and try to give you some tips.

[@rcsports06]

@@prodigalsonapparel Sent an email. Thanks!

[@nathanielmachai7703]

Hallo I wanted to know what kind of machine you use to print on leather,I just love how it looks

[@prodigalsonapparel]

I buy veg tan leather, wet it lightly then using a brass stamp I have made with my image I press it into the leather. You need a 1 ton press (harbor freight has them for about $70) to stamp the leather. If you google videos on leather stamping you should be able to watch the process.

[@nicalove77]

Thanks for sharing, just two questions 1. What size are your patches 2. Where did you get the machine and what’s the retail price.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Here is a link to the place I purchased mine. www.goldstartool.com/consew-228r-11-1-high-speed-post-bed-1-needle-drop-feed-lockstitch-industrial-sewing-machine-with-table-and-servo-motor.htm

[@albrown2922]

What type of adhesive did you use to hold the patch on initially before sewing?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

310 Neoweld Cement. It works great because it is strong enough to hold in place but never fully cures so you can peel of and re-position if needed. I'll put a link in the description.

[@sethemory6592]

I have this same machine . What size belts do I need and did you get the smaller reducer or the bigger one.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

I've got the reducer install here in this video with all the details. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYqqZaOfgrJ4gs0

[@wa2436]

Compared to the walking foot, are you having to manually set the length between stitches?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

There is a dial to set the stitch length. I set it and forget it at 3

[@UpfrontMerch]

Great video! what type of foot pedal are you using?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Dont entirely know. It all came together. Sewing machine, Table, Motor, Pedal, etc. I just assembled. Im sure if you get a machine it comes with the pedal.

[@UpfrontMerch]

@@prodigalsonapparel all good! Thank you for the reply!

[@wessanford410]

How do you keep the roller foot from making marks? Did you have to adjust the roller foots presser?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

I actually dont. I use to worry about that but quickly realized they give my patches more character. They love like someone actually crafted them and not just ironed on. Thousands of hats later Ive never had a complaint.

[@Josuerobles11202]

Hey man so I have a sewing machine and I want to sew patches onto hats but I only have a brother one that I use for jeans do you think that one can work? The machine was about 200 and I’ve only tried it for my jeans but the patches Im going to use won’t be leather just normal ones?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

I think it would be really difficult if you dont have the elevated post or a cylindrical arm on your sewing machine. Especially if your using the trucker style or any hat with a rigid mesh backing. Its just really hard to flatten the meshed hats plus with the bill its difficult to get around the front of the hat. But if your using softer flat dad hats or a hat that isn't so rigid it could be possible.

[@markhaddeman5304]

what heat press were you using? thinking about doing this as well.

[@markhaddeman5304]

I wanted to get the Stahl IQ360.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

@@markhaddeman5304 I have the Hix B250. Unfortunately now I just use it to press labels on my shirts. I've heard good things about the Stahl IQ360. If it can achieve the "crease free" hats it claims then that's a big deal. It's seems to be the only one that can from what I've seen. If that was an option when I purchased mine I would have leaned toward that one for sure knowing what I know now. I'm sure it comes with a hefty price point, but considering I've got a $700 paper weight in my shop that occasionally presses labels and not hats its probably worth the extra cost.

[@BCFFMedic]

What gear reducer did you purchase? I don't see a link.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thanks for pointing that out. 1st video, lots of kinks to work out. I've got it in the description now.

[@kayleighmessner7481]

What brand of needles do you find work best for your leather patches?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thanks for watching. I've got a link to the needles in the description.

[@ricardomariscal117]

What's the investment for that sewing machine? Also do you have a video of you making your leather patches? Im interested in possibly starting some hat designs

[@prodigalsonapparel]

It was about $1700. Link below. I do have footage of the leather patch process. I just need to sit down and edit it together. I'll post it soon hopefully. Click the notification bell and it ought to inform you of my new videos when released. www.goldstartool.com/consew-228r-11-1-high-speed-post-bed-1-needle-drop-feed-lockstitch-industrial-sewing-machine-with-table-and-servo-motor.htm

[@jacobsobie5040]

How did you get the patch on the hat to start? Is it glued?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Yes, I use a great water based glue/contact cement called Aquilim 315. It bonds similiar to contact cement without the mess and odor. Great product!

[@screenprintermike]

Would a KS-810 post bed work for putting on embroidered patches onto hats.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Yeah, thats what I use mine for. I do both leather and embroidered patches. It definitely helps to put a pulley reducer on the machine for slower speed (more control) and also increases torque (more power)

[@BENVY]

I went ahead and took the plunge and bought this machine with the reducer preinstalled from the company. It runs Ok-ish but I keep getting a lot of jam ups. I know it's user error. LOL. What is your tension for hats? Would it be ok to email you with some questions?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Sure. Email [e-mail]

[@asherbenruby]

Where did you buy your machine?

[@juanabeza4196]

What is the name of the presser foot you used yo put the patches on the caps? And if I can get it for a Techsew 2700 sewing machine?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Its called a roller foot. If you call Gold Star Tool they can probably inform you if it'll fit on your machine. Here is a link. www.goldstartool.com/large-roller-foot-with-needle-plate-feed-dogs-singer.htm

[@juanabeza4196]

@@prodigalsonapparel thankyou

[@DoeOutBowOut]

what size thread and needle are you using? also, what size is the bobbin thread?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

138 top, 92 bobbin. Needle is a 120/19

[@TeamBlackDiamond]

If I supplied hats and patches do you do the sewing? I talking about 50 hats. 20 baseball caps and about 30 bucket hats.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Where at you at?

[@TeamBlackDiamond]

@@prodigalsonapparel I’m in Los Angels, California

[@mikeandmelissabeam6928]

What size and type of thread do you use? Sorry if this question was already asked.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

138 Bonded Nylon size 19 needle

[@rubentovar5957]

@@prodigalsonapparel Hey there, to add to the question what is the biggest thread this machine will take? I only plan on sewing on leather patch hats as well. The post machine I looked at only took size 92 thread. Want to make sure I buy the first time. I think 138 is perfect for leather patches. Maybe 210?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

@@rubentovar5957 Mine has actually has a recommendation of #92 thread, but with the pulley reducer you get more torque so I'm comfortable going past the rating to 138. I asked the same question once to a seasoned vet and his answer was see if it can go up a notch (thread size needle size) and you'll know if its straining or the needle breaks. Still, I didn't want to try that but have had zero issue at with 138. I'd feel comfortable going up a size on occasion but haven't had a need too.

[@brabg1]

What are you using for thread on your bobbin?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Bonded nylon, #92 on bobbin. #135 Bonded nylon on top/needle.

[@brabg1]

@@prodigalsonapparel thank ya pard

[@asherbenruby]

Are your patches laser engraved?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

I do both. Stamped and laser. In this video they are stamped. Laser is a lot darker and burned into the leather.

[@Fiestafunjumps]

What glue u use to glue the patch ??

[@prodigalsonapparel]

310 Neoweld Cement. It works great because it is strong enough to hold in place but never fully cures so you can peel of and re-position if needed. I'll put a link in the description.

[@Fiestafunjumps]

Thanks !

[@mikemcknight2936]

what stitch length and thread size are you using?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Ive got my dial set in between 3-4

[@stonetowergrafix9926]

What needle thread do you use?

[@prodigalsonapparel]

138 Bonded Nylon with a size 19 needle

[@stonetowergrafix9926]

@@prodigalsonapparel thank you, much appreciated and God Bless!

[@prodigalsonapparel]

@@stonetowergrafix9926 No problem.

[@monetbryant8576]

What kind of thread are you using

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Bonded nylon size 138

[@lmartinez345]

Hello. Thanks for the video. I noticed some post-beds have a round , saucer like, do you know the difference between them. Thanks and Lord bless you and yours.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Mostly for wigs.

[@andreytsarenko6965]

I see a bunch of cheaper 810 machines like Ikonix and Yamata etc. I definitely want to use thread size 138 for nice leather patches. but most of them dont specify good specs on max thread size. some say will go up to needle 22 which is good for 138 but then they say 69 size is the largest. So its a bit confusing. The 228 model you have is a bit more $$$ than the 810 models from different brands.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Yeah I haven't looked into the those machines you mentioned. But like you said, if they recommend size 22 needles you should be able to use 92 or 138 thread. So that is a mixed message. I ended up installing a reducer which increased my torque, so I'm very comfortable with a 138 thread. Plus much less speed=more control.

[@andreytsarenko6965]

I want to buy one but can’t seem to get that information anywhere. Knowing that the 228 works with 138 size I may just buy that and the reducer.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

@@andreytsarenko6965 Yeah, probably better to buy it sooner then later. Everything keeps going up, up, up. The gear reducer is already $50 more then when I purchased it over a year ago. Crazy inflation!

[@andreytsarenko6965]

@@prodigalsonapparel Hey, So I purchased the post bed, little different one but very much the same. I do want to run size 138. Normally they recommend running size 21 needle at least for that but I see you are using size 19 needle with a slanted point. After doing these for a while can you update me on your choice of needle to do this and the thread if its still all same as your video or little different now that you do this for a while.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

@@andreytsarenko6965 Yes, I still use the size 19 needle with 138 bonded nylon. I haven't had any issue. This is the needle Im currently using www.thethreadexchange.com/miva/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=NDL-717532+%2F+717535

[@abstraktmindktm]

Hey man I appreciate the video. I have the same machine. Would you mind contacting me I just want to make sure I have a couple things right on my machine.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Sure, you got an email or something?

[@abstraktmindktm]

@@prodigalsonapparel yessir. [e-mail]

[@prototypeeight9503]

too bad you moved the camera where we can't see the end! :(

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Yeah, sorry. This was my first video and everything was in screen when I was filming, but after I edited and loaded on KZbin it was cropped without me realizing. I'm getting better as I go...hopefully!

[@shanalishanali399]

Jobes hy sire

[@shanalishanali399]

Hallo sir.kam milye gah rabath kary palless

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Hallo

[@shanalishanali399]

G sire jobe milye gy pallees sweeng masheen

[@shanalishanali399]

@@prodigalsonapparel g sair

[@shanalishanali399]

G sire

[@shanalishanali399]

Sweeng masheen jobe

[@jimhuskins8506]

So much talk, so little information.

[@prodigalsonapparel]

Thanks for watching anyways. Feel free to reach out if you have any specific questions about the sewing method I use.