Making A Leather Tool Wallet with a Basic Singer 66 Sewing Machine

[@Bayan1905]

I just found one of these machines this week for $50 and it's in great shape. It has the electric motor that's been rewired but I plan on converting it over to hand crank, I got it to do leather about the same thickness as what you're using. My machine was made in 1929. I think they're by far the nicest looking sewing machines. My Grandmother had one that was a foot pedal operation that was built into a table that when not being used would go fit through a trap door and sit below the table top itself. She never owned anything more modern than that machine.

[@BrokenArrowPottery]

Just caught your video while researching an old treadle for a friend. That decal caught my eye! I too own a Lotus66 built in Clydesbank, Scotland circa 1910. Mine is also in pristine condition and sounds exactly like yours. I love the sound of a well built machine! Thank you. I enjoyed watching you sew your leather pocket for your templates. It looks lovely and should serve you forever as will that beautiful machine. Cheers! jw

[@SuperBellezza1]

Hi Harry. I own a machine just like the one used in the demonstration. I never knew the paint job was called Lotus, and I never knew it was manufactured in the UK. I am so excited to now know I can use it to sew leather projects like the one you taught us to make today. Thank you.

[@susand.sillence8888]

Love this!! It’s like watching “The Little Engine That Could” ! I have a Singer 206k and a modern Janome, but my “new-to-me” 1910 Singer 66-1 Red Eye with model 5 treadle is my favorite!! I also bought an inexpensive hand crank to use with it occasionally, and it’s just as much fun!!!🧵🥰

[@crowznest438]

The lotus decals are in such good condition!

[@sewnonny2721]

You inspired me to find a lotus machine myself, Harry. I found a 1916 model that nobody else appeared to want on a well known auction site. As you say in your video, despite the lack of a reverse, I find myself using it for many projects even though I have 2 other machines. It's a bit like a trusty land rover that you know will get you up a hill!! Thank you again. Best wishes, Wendy

[@harryrogers]

That's great Wendy thanks...and a very good analogy!

[@carlthornton3076]

I have a Singer 66 similar to the one shown. I bought it a yard sale for $15.00 about 20 years ago. I had a sewing machine mechanic clean, oil & repair it. My machine was knee control, I had a foot control and new motor installed. I have used it for 20 years with no trouble. I have sewn letter and all sorts of material. This is a great sewing machine. I also have an old treadle machine that I need to order a shuttle & bobbin for. Y'all take care & have a great day!!.

[@harryrogers]

That's great Carl, thanks.

[@andrewwilson8317]

Thanks for great video, you always provide such clear and insightful instruction. I have had some good success in obtaining leather from local recycling centre.There is something so satisfying in recycling materials with traditional hand skills to make useful and pleasing new products. I have collected lots of bits from old machines that are now embossing stamps for leather work.

[@harryrogers]

Thanks.

[@justmejhbmed9778]

Thanks for this demo Harry. I inherited a similar old hand-operated Singer to the one you have, and I am self taught machinist but for the last 20 years or so have managed the small projects you demonstrated. It was good to watch you use your machine and to know that I have used my singer to the same advantage as you. thanks for posting the video.

[@famasmaster2000]

Such a beautiful machine !

[@conradsmith9332]

Very nice video, I love that tool belt, I must make one. Old singers are very enjoyable :)

[@harryrogers]

Thanks

[@denasewell]

Beautiful machine !I have only seen a few of these with that amazing lotus motif!I have a 66 as well as a portable that came along in the 1940's !I am gonna pull them out as I did not think I could sew leather with them !Thank you !

[@harryrogers]

Great!

[@marcinspace]

My singer 66 just showed up. It is great. Love it.Thank you for this content.

[@itsastitchup]

Nice Harry. I love the colour of the leather as well.

[@crazybearkaiser7084]

Nice one Harry. Have the same machine, also 1917. Very therapeutic using it. Love the sound they make when sewing. Atb, Ian.

[@harryrogers]

I got this for Christmas and could not resist it with the lovely paintwork!

[@frogzone7250]

There’s a little gadget called a hump jumper. Specifically designed for easing the gradient when going over thick seams .Very inexpensive and you could probably knock one up yourself Harry. Love these machines, no fancy electronic motherboards just good old mechanics. Very often a little TLC and a lot of elbow grease and there all set to go! I’ve saved a few from my local tip!

[@harryrogers]

Thanks very much...that is a good tip.

[@grumpy_poo]

If you can't get a hump jumper then a large button will also equalise the thickness until the needle glides over.

[@dulsuasortfein6976]

“Hi “ Harry, Good to see you again, bright eyed and bushy tailed in 2018 ! Happy new year to you and your family. Let’s make this year a good one for all of us. Kindest regards Brendan.

[@ajnonameajnoname7173]

Enjoy your videos very much I have got into repairing machines and sewing small items I now have 18 machines I don't know what I'm going to do with all of them but I have some going back quite a few years and some of them just never going to wear out they're made out of very good durable material

[@robertmccarthy9555]

Really like the time and quality of your videos, thank you .

[@445supermag]

I've got a 1948 model 15, with reverse and a gear drive electric motor, when I was a kid my father made seat cover for our truck with it. I'm going to fix it and give it a try on leather.

[@harryrogers]

445supermag You probably have a fairly strong motor compared to the UK potted motors...so that should be good.

[@marymary5494]

This takes me back to learning to sew on a machine like this, I’d forgotten there was no reverse on them. Thank you 😊

[@ronalddaub7965]

That 66 doesn't have reverse but the later 66 models did. around 48 I'm not sure They are only made the 66 for 60 some years lol they got reversed later and then they called it backtack

[@ronalddaub7965]

I personally like backtacing by turning the material around

[@annuk03]

I do enjoy your videos Harry, thank you for taking the time to make them.

[@daniloleite_sp]

Thank you! Very good video! I am Brazilian and I am learning about leather and sewing... I have a Brazilian Singer 1959... I will test this!

[@alejandrolabrada2842]

beautiful, thank you Harry for your chanel

[@stevezytveld6585]

I recently became the fourth (known) owner of a 1915 hand-crank Singer 99K with the wooden case. It's an amazing piece of engineering. And if you ever want to spend a pleasant afternoon on etsy search for variations on "vintage low-shank presser feet". I knew, in theory, the 99 could handle leather. But, as the 3/4 size version of the 66, I wasn't sure. Now I want to find some scrap leather. - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown

[@harryrogers]

That sounds great...I think it should be OK.

[@MoondyneJoe]

Hi Harry Happy New Year Nice little machine I brought an excellent Singer Treadle sewing machine back in around 1987 from a neighbour for 35$ Including a enclosed worktable with the draws in it ( It looks original to the machine) mine came with everything extra feet , button holers and lots of stuff I haven't worked out how to use it even came with its book but after all these years I still haven't read it ! (Typical Bloke) as soon as I got it i took it over to Northam a biger town to my east and got a machine serviceman to give it a service and set it up for leather supplying him with samples I would like to sew. he set it up so I can sew the 2 thickness's of leather belt leather so about 5 to 6mm Easily with the right needle it has a diamond shape on the working end I have many times made up belt pouches tobacco pouches and what ever is needed without any problems And it has a reverse function on the machine as well as a cute electric light I was so lucky to get it and at no time had /have i ever considered getting a " built for leather work sewing machine with your little wallet you made I used to make very simular to that as a Tobacco pouch with a Rollie paper pocket in built as well But I sewed it together inside out and when sewn turn it back the right way and often I would put a rivet at the top end for strength in high use products some times I would line them with a plastic like material so the user could empty their tobacco into them and other times not so the Tobacco in its own bag could sit in the pouch They are great sellers . I still get people asking me if I still make them and I havent done any leather work for over 15 years now But that singer of mine like all my leather work tools I will never sell they are just to handy Tony from Western Australia

[@BrassLock]

+Moondyne .Joe : So I guess you're in Toodyay, judging by your description of Northam being "larger town to the east". All 3 towns, (York, Northam and Toodyay) are well worth visiting, if you happen to be in Western Australia.

[@MoondyneJoe]

Hi Dav yup Ive lived in Toodyay for nearly 32 years now also I pinched Moondyne .Joe's as my alias, he was Western Australia's only bush ranger based out of 2J

[@BrassLock]

+Moondyne .Joe : Good to hear :) I lived in Glen Forrest many years ago, and often toured those 3 towns for a weekend outing. Many good memories. I'm now an expat in Chiang Mai and look forward to my return trips every year or so, cheers!

[@MoondyneJoe]

Hi Dav Small World Eh? I grew up around the east Victoria Park area and went to Kent Street high School my sister ( Now 61) also went their as well Her First Boyfriend was a Bloke called Jeff Hill who also went to KSSHS, who lived in Bailey Road Glenn Forrest, I ended up almost being a surrogate son of the Hill Family Dr Hill was an amazing man The family brought a farm of 250 acres in Bakers Hill called 7 Hills I spent a year living their around 1981 , came back to Perth and then moved up to Toodyay in 1986 When you come back for you annual visit you will have to stop in for a coffee! Tony

[@BrassLock]

+Moondyne .Joe : Very interesting how lives can intersect Tony. I'll look you up next time I'm in Perth with some reliable transport.

[@tanyabraeman3825]

Enjoyed video. Just starting out working with leather.

[@dennyr989]

Cool tutorial-gives me the idea to recycle the leather from old, unwanted purses into utility wallets DR

[@mikegauthier6596]

Thank you Mr. Rogers,!

[@jazzsuze]

Hello! Just came upon your Channel while looking for information on my latest sewing machine find. It is a Singer 66 Lotus Back Clamp manual - exactly the same as the one you are using in this video. I found it in a house clearance shop in Gloucestershire, the shopkeeper only asked 'a tenner' for it. The box is full of accessories, somewhat pitted, not good quality finish on them. However, it seemed to be well cared for, recently oiled, no rust, lovely action, so what did I have to lose? I have given it a good clean and it's now looking great. When I got home I found my old black metal singer box of bits, inherited from my uncle (he was an obsessive machine fettler!). Amazingly I found a quantity of back clamp accessories in the box, much better quality than those with the machine. As you can imagine I was very chuffed!! So watching your video I am even more chuffed to know that it will sew several layers of upholstery leather. Can you please tell me - did you buy leather needles for it? My machine has 3 original-looking needles but not leather. Many thanks for making this video. I have watched some of your others now too - very versatile subjects. I tend to work in a similar manner - I sometimes envy these craft people who can stick to one technique!!

[@harryrogers]

Hello well done..and yes leather point needles are good in it.

[@wilkbor]

Thanks for the video. I'm going to make a couple of those out of some nylon cloth.

[@AndTheCorrectAnswerIs]

I too have a handfull of the old cast iron White and Singer machines that do well on light leather. I think any of the machines originally meant for treadle tables do well, as do machines made into the 1920's. Most were upgraded to electric motors, and if using an electric motor model for leather, make sure to have one of the more powerful motors. In the US, motors range from .7 amps to 1.3 amps. Look for at least a 1 amp motor. Some of these machines are also compatible with aftermarket hand cranks sold on Ebay. A hand crank will give you a lot more power than any small motor.

[@johnkennedyswenja]

you have a pleasant voice Harry...happy new year

[@harryrogers]

John Kennedy Thanks John.

[@stevefranklin9176]

Reverse or backstitch is achieved by stopping the machine, slightly lift the foot, restart the sewing and pulling the material towards you.

[@CreatedByNoriElan]

GREAT PIECE OF ADVICE! IT WORKS!!!!!!!!!!!

[@carolyngethings]

Inspired! Thank you.

[@dochayesnm]

Thank you, Harry. Happy New Year!!

[@andrewwilson8317]

I made a camera pouch and a trench watch style watch strap and cover. For this the leather was mounded over a wood former. Pretty amazing how damp leather can take a shape and keep it when dry!

[@harryrogers]

Yes a great advantage of veg tan leather...nice projects. Rgds Harry

[@ardybe7011]

Harry, you've gotten me looking for a Singer 66! I find you videos a bit addictive!

[@harryrogers]

Ron Brown Thanks Ron...sounds catching! Happy New Year.

[@ArgentiLuna]

wow so cool and informative.

[@livewiya]

My Singer 66 was made in 1948 and has the ability to sew a back-stitch. I'm late to the game but I thought I'd share

[@jaaziel9]

@Piper Mccoy I also have a Singer 1948 -99, 1949 -99k, and a Singer 66 and all three have beautiful gold decal, but nothing like that, ours are the newer version after world war and the decal changed.I think all three of mine do reverse stitches.

[@ronalddaub7965]

My 1950 has that lever I like it. I got mine because someone did not want to challenge the rewire I did it in 1 hour and then I serviced it and I'm sewing on it hour by hour making stuff along with my Minnesota a treadle

[@livewiya]

@@ronalddaub7965 almost the same story!

[@idabrown4331]

I have that very same machine! I was wondering when it was made.

[@BrassLock]

There seem to be lots of newish looking "Singer" sewing machines in Chiang Mai city markets. I thought they must be made under license, or perhaps the dies and blueprints were sold to an Indian or Chinese manufacturer many years ago (Austin and Morris did similar deals in the Orient). I must have a closer look at them and see their price list. Might be worth my while getting one for leatherwork. I do hand sewing at the moment, and it's very slow, but produces a functional result for my little hobby projects.

[@ibsoarin]

After WWII, Singer Model 15 clones were manufactured in Japan. Some are good quality but if I have to choose between a 15 clone and an original Singer Model 15, the Singer will be superior quality. The newest Chinese Model 15 clones have a pretty finish but the quality of the mechanism will be inferior to both the Japanese Model 15 clones and the original, superb quality Singer Model 15s.

[@cadillacescalade1]

What is the brand of the rounded cutter pls

[@harryrogers]

I think it's a Dafa

[@spencerrushin8896]

What size needle and type thread are you using?? what weight leather is that ? i want to do this myself but dont have the first clue the proper set up and i have been getting clogged up trying to sew with wrong material needle thread set ups so far

[@harryrogers]

Upholstery threads and a leather point needle work fine. Best wishes Harry

[@JacquelineLP]

Do you have any videos regarding a singer 15? Thanks for the lovely tutorial! 🤗

[@harryrogers]

Sorry ..no..but I do on the Singer 201K which may help.

[@АндрейМедведев-э4с]

What is the maximum thickness of the lower thread can be used from the bottom on the bobbin when sewing?

[@harryrogers]

Андрей Медведев I have not tried anything thicker than upholstery thread....I suspect that is around it's sensible limit...the bobbin is only domestic size.

[@АндрейМедведев-э4с]

what thread number was used on the bobbin?

[@Glennoutdoors]

Harry what is the max size thread and needle you would try in a 201-2 . Thanks for your time.

[@harryrogers]

Glenn..all I ever put through is Gutterman upholstery thread...with size 90? needle UK.

[@pencilsp3049]

Where you buy hand crank of this sewing machine?

[@harryrogers]

Classified adverts and online auction sites etc.

[@alexlopez8922]

Hi I love your video, I have a 66 as well, so I was wondering about the type of needle are you using, is it a special needle? I would like to know so I can start new projects on it since I finish cleaning and oiling it, thank you in advance

[@harryrogers]

@@alexlopez8922 Hi I was using a leather point needle.

[@pcka12]

What is the leather glue you use? When I worked in the sheepskin coat factory we used ‘Copydex’ to ‘patch in’ the insides of the sleeves for the ‘economy’ lines!

[@harryrogers]

Hi Fiebings leather cement

[@WallStreet749]

Hello Harry I wanted to ask you is there a place to buy templates for wallets and purses of different designs.. Happy new year buy the way looking forward to your next video..

[@harryrogers]

Corter Leather on KZbin seem to be offering a good selection.

[@shirleymalar304]

Can you tell me how to identify a Singer Model 66 Sewing Machine? Do all the model 66's have either the paint job that yours has or the 'Red Eye' design in the U.S.? Do you know if the 66 is the only ones manufactured with those designs? Apparently they don't have Model #'s on them. Thanks.

[@harryrogers]

Shirley Malar U believe red eye US and lotus UK were only used on 66 machines but might be wrong. There were also plainer ones....I went on the net to look at examples to check ...as you say no model plate number...and also no reverse are both clues. If they have the manual with them that is also an indicator of model but obviously not foolproof. I hope that helps a little. The serial number is also a great help as you can look it up and see what machines it was assigned to.

[@shirleymalar304]

@@harryrogers Knowing how to look up the models by the serial number has been great. I got a Singer 66 treadle machine and I'm going to go thru it and clean and oil it before I start to use it and then give her a try! Thanks for this video which educated me about these fantastic old machines and led to me buying one.

[@harryrogers]

@@shirleymalar304 That's great thanks Shirley.

[@ageorge7140]

I like that ruler what kind did you say it was.

[@harryrogers]

Aaron George A Linex

[@totalchaos290]

I have a 66 hand crank that I use to make wallets its a 1936 plain black but i has a better stitch than my 201 but love both of them

[@BeetleJuice1980]

I got The same project and the same machine so I would like to know what kind and size of thread and needle you use on a singer. Can we use the same thread we use with hand stitch (we call them in my country wax thread don't know the preside name in English) Thank you, amazing channel and work!

[@harryrogers]

I use upholstery thread..like thick standard domestic sewing thread

[@popscratchie3985]

hi harry I have watched a lot of your videos a d was just wondering h if there is a cheap machine that will sew both wallets and belts? sorry if you've covered this topic

[@harryrogers]

Hi not really that I am aware of...there are always various compromises. You can see the capability of a Singer 29k in a couple of my videos, but really I think you are looking at different machine needs.

[@spencerdodds2207]

I have a 15K (treadle) and a 28K, will either of those do for this sort of work?

[@harryrogers]

Yes I would have thought so..but I have not tried either...just make sure it's thin upholstery leather..1mm +area.

[@LigiaRocha]

Harry, I really appreciate your channel. Am learning a lot from you. Do you know about the Necchi Nora? I m looking at one to sew a leather jacket and might do purses too (now sewing purses hand stichting). Keep up the good work. Greetings from the Netherlands, Lígia

[@harryrogers]

Sorry I have not used that machine. Rgds Harry

[@jackmack2210]

How do I tell its a 66? Will there be a number? very useful

[@ibsoarin]

Jack, A Singer Model 66 does not have any designation on it but this blog may help you distinguish a Model 66, especially on "crappy" Craigslist pictures. vssmb.blogspot.com/2011/08/visual-guide-to-identifying-singers.html Although a Singer Model 99 would seem to be identical to a Model 66 but in 3/4 size head, it is not. The Singer Model 99 has a much smaller needle bar and would not be as strong as a Model 66.

[@ibsoarin]

Jack, I do not want to discourage you from considering a Singer Model 66 because they are good, durable entry level sewing machines. You might consider the Singer Model 201 or Model 15, you will find both have benefits over the Model 66.

[@CreatedByNoriElan]

@@ibsoarin What kind of benefits?

[@ibsoarin]

@@CreatedByNoriElan Singer Model 201 is a straight stitch only rotary hook sewing machine which is highly refined and an extremely precision machine. It was known as the Dressmaker's model. It can sew fine linen to denim. Many people would consider it the top of the line straight stitch Singer sewing machine. Singer Model 15 is a straight stitch only oscillating hook sewing machine which is very tough and an extremely durable machine. It was nicknamed the Farmer's model. It can sew thin cloth to canvas. Many people would consider it one of the toughest domestic sewing machines. Many Model 15 clones were made after WW II but none can compare to an original Singer Model 15 craftsmanship and durability. Please understand that no domestic sewing machine can be considered an industrial sewing machine.

[@alicehemery9910]

Hi Harry. Thanks for a great video - really stunning machine - absolute favorite singer. I was wondering can you change the stitch length? Also, what thread are you using and will it take thicker thread? Thanks :)

[@harryrogers]

Hi Alice I was using Gutterman upholstery thread. Stitch length is adjustable via a knob.

[@alicehemery9910]

@@harryrogersHi Harry. Thanks for the info. I love hand stitching with leather to make purses, but would really like to move into sewing with a sewing machine so I can become more quick. Would you recommend the 66k or the 201? Many thanks, Alice :)

[@phyllismulkey3778]

awesome

[@craigdolvey6224]

A hinged presser foot would help with different thickness of leather it walks over the thicker bits without slipping or skipping.

[@harryrogers]

Thanks Craig.

[@terrigelbaum8066]

Darlin' doesn't that machine have reverse on the stitch regulator?Just throw it in reverse instead of all that turning it around stuff.

[@harryrogers]

Hi...no reverse on the Singer 66...nor a drop feed..the next model..the 201 had both...but I like the simplicity. Rgds Harry

[@rspandit4786]

How does it feed without feed dogs, then, or have I misunderstood what drop feed is?

[@harryrogers]

@@rspandit4786 hi it does not which makes it good for darning or free motion embroidery

[@chriswalker4272]

Beautiful machine Harry, I just got a 1880's Singer 27k and will be using it for some leatherwork too. Your machine was probably built in Singer's Clydebank Factory, Scotland. I think they where there before the ship building industry, so a beautiful piece of British history. Like yours my 1880's machine works like new, having no plastic drive cogs as most do now. Love your vids, being a small woods owner I have restored many old green woodworking tools and have to make sheaths for them myself. Keep on keeping on Sir 😁

[@Elinor_Scott-Lester]

Thanks for showing us this. May I ask what kind of thread you use for this kind of project?

[@harryrogers]

keith lester Jeans thread...Gutterman heavy duty thread to be precise.

[@Elinor_Scott-Lester]

Harry Rogers sorry to be dense, but is that polyester, cotton or bonded nylon. I have all three and am not sure which would be best. I made a couple of small pouches using a section of an old leather coat and polyester thread but I’m not sure it’s really strong enough. What do you think? kind regards, K33F

[@harryrogers]

keith lester It's polyester...I suggest you try destroying a seam....you might find it quite difficult...you can put nm60 bonded nylon through these...I expect that would be even more difficult to rip apart....but the jeans type thread sews really well for this type of machine with a 100 needle.

[@Elinor_Scott-Lester]

Harry Rogers many thanks, kind regards, K33F

[@graceygal2664]

BTW the singer 15 also sews light leather

[@macgyver2417]

I enjoy your show, very informative. I just got a 1916 Singer 66 Red Eye after watching you using yours.Question what type of thread do you recomend ? Tks

[@harryrogers]

MacGyver 2 I find the Gutterman upholstery thread very good.

[@macgyver2417]

Harry Rogers Thanks ill try it.Keep up the good work.

[@bushcraft3602]

Hi Harry What needle and thread did you use. Happy new year. Colin

[@harryrogers]

Gutterman jeans thread and a 100 size leather needle.

[@alicehemery9910]

Hi Harry :) I went for a Singer 66 like the one in this video! So excited to get it up and running on my projects. I have bought some Gutterman upholstery thread also... I was just wondering what needle to go for? Best wishes, Alice

[@harryrogers]

Hi Alice...for leather you can get leather point needles at most haberdashery shops. It's a standard Singer type needle as I recall.

[@zebulon9307]

2:23: If I´m reading the number correctly (F 712 sumthin) this Class 66 would have been made in 1916. That´s 107 years old, just barely broken in I guess.

[@ОльгаГаас-ш8ф]

Можно по русский.У нас точно такая машинка,но более красивой упаковке,т.е. в тумбочке.Хотелось бы узнать,как она шьет.Историю машинки тоже хочется узнать.

[@bryanlawless1858]

Is that a model 15? I see the title says 66. If I remember I think the 15 evolved into the 66. I don't remember for sure. My 15 is a treadle machine and my 66 is electric. I also just got a 201-2 today that I just used. Thanks for the upload. I also have 2 model 29-4s. One is from 1910 the other is 1920. Love them both.

[@isabellahodge4162]

It's a 66, the Lotus decals only appear on the 66. The 15 and 66 are different models entirely. The 15 came first and has a vertically mounted bobbin case, side entry, and tension discs to the side. The 66 has a drop in bobbin to the side, no case, and front tension. The bobbins are different sizes too.

[@johnclayton1026]

could you find a machine a little more neat, clean, and pristine than that one?

[@Sewingmachineworkshop1]

🙂👍

[@Sewingmachineworkshop1]

🙂👍👍👍

[@pheenix42]

I think it was Gandhi who said he considered the sewing machine to be the most useful machine the Western world ever made.

[@seymourwrasse3321]

the 201 is the holy grail of sewing machine

[@minnesotaoutdoorsnorth]

you just said you cannot make it go forward then backward... Hello??? you mean backward???

[@harryrogers]

There is no reverse so need to turn the work around...I hope that helps.

[@plazro]

Hi. Fantastic video. I have an old Singer 15k 1939. Do you think it will have the same capability as this 66 model? Many thanks.

[@harryrogers]

Hi probably...that model had been in production for years and is strong.