Chinese leather shoe patching machine. Junk or Jewel?

Have you thought about buying a Chinese leather sewing machine, but was afraid it might be a piece of junk? In this video I let you know the bottom line, jewel or junk. find out the real truth!
Notes: If you use a large spool of thread with this machine you will need to buy or make a thread stand. Large spools are meant to feed from the top and can't be used on the stock thread reel on top of the machine. Thread stands can be purchased on Amazon for around $10.00 amzn.to/38kk11w
Below is a link to the exact machine I bought. It has the best reviews of any sold on Amazon:
I do receive a small commission on items purchased through this link:
amzn.to/3yJQTf5
CLSP Facebook Group: / 1646031288779869
I got my after market presser foot from Ebay seller www.ebay.com/u...

[@HNXMedia]

Wow! Finally a video about this machine that was properly filmed, in focus and no nonsense. Absolute perfection!

[@ChucksMagic]

Thanks for the comment, glad you enjoyed the video!

[@jakeylakey619]

I came to say the same thing. My complete sentiments.

[@gergemall]

Love your stitches too.

[@gergemall]

@@jakeylakey619exactly

[@electricsmartpainting7862]

​@@ChucksMagic good video i was about to trash my new one .now it will work

[@AdamusPrime76]

Damn man, THIS is how you do an instructional video! Thank you!

[@ChuckPeters-hv4qq]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@RobertWardJones]

I'd like to chime in with feedback regarding needing to make a stand for the machine. The tripod works! I see so many videos where the new owner just assumes the tripod won't work without trying it, but it works great! For me i needed to level machine using a soup can under one of the legs and a small tuna can under another leg to get it all level. It works well for doing repairs on a sailboat to repair sails, checking (fixing) frayed ropes and other projects all without needing power or having to fully remove the sail. Just sew it on deck while sitting on an overturned bucket. Very convenient! I used a plastic mayo jar lid to support a large thread cone and used a metal straw (a tube) to extend the shaft for the thread spool holder for the large spool.

[@LarrySmith1437]

Now that's a "can"do attitude

[@John-d7p]

I'd actually pay to see that video. Tossed mine and have never looked back.

[@LanceMcGrew]

As I watched - could not help but think this o'boy was either a machinist or mechanic based on precise details and how he properly describes the machine parts.

[@bigchrisrogers]

Yes, I thought so, and perhaps and educator as well, maybe an engineering college or similar.

[@LarrySmith1437]

Sir, you have given me the confidence to venture out on the shaky limb that are these machines.

[@bigchrisrogers]

I believe this to be the best video on KZbin about this machine. It is so well thought out, shot, edited and commented. No waffle, excellent clear images, accurate and precise information. Well done Sir! Thank you.

[@danielirvine7468]

Thank you sir for you’re time and sharing this vid to the leather crafters A lot of work went in to this filming and editing and you trialing the machine… Just wanted to let you know I appreciate you Have a great weekend.

[@MiguelVelazquez1167]

Thank you. The best and simple explanation of this machine. Again thank you

[@CIRCLEDARK]

The first minute of this video might be the most accurate thing I've heard in any YT video. If someone asked where I am with sewing leather goods, I would say what you said word-for-word.

[@ChuckPeters-hv4qq]

Hey thanks for taking the time to leave a comment and I'm glad your liked the intro!

[@anarchytelevision8445]

Thanks for making the video I also have one of these machines and I find it user friendly and easily modifiable and customizable. I'm always interested in seeing what people have done to their machines to modify or customize it. And interested in seeing what they are making with it. I've made a couple of videos showing what I've done to my machine, thanks again. 😊

[@skullfracture2]

I got lucky and received one that worked great straight out of the box. Minimal manufacturing errors, even a nice green enamel on the frame. Did an entire a cut-and-sew floor carpet on my 75 Land Cruiser with it. Also, stitched some cushions for a chair I build.

[@John-d7p]

You must be livin' right.😜

[@joaquinguillen3731]

Excellent job on the video all my questions were answered especially the clocking and timing thank you

[@kenh8979]

You surely did a really NICE job with the video editing, and with the info for the machine also. A couple of things I'd mention. If you drill a small 3/32" hole in the side of the bobbin it makes threading easier. Many folks have done that. The question about "what machine did you get", might have been referring to the number of bearings. The original (like I have) is a 4 bearing machine, then the 8 bearing came out. Now there is a 10 bearing machine. I'm not really sure the extra bearings do all that much, but they're cheap so why not? Again, GREAT job on the video.

[@ChucksMagic]

@Ken H Thanks, I enjoyed putting the video together. Not sure if the added bearings are a plus or not. If I find I need another one I might have to try a 10 bearing, although mine runs pretty smooth. I haven't found a hole in the bobbin to be necessary, I just hold the thread on the edge of the bobbin with my thumb and take a few turns on the spool to lock it down before putting the bobbin on the winder. I know my regular sewing machine bobbins have holes, but I really haven't missed them. With my eyesight, trying to hit a hole in the bobbin with the end of the thread might be tough these days. I can hold and wrap with my eyes closed. One thing I see a lot of and failed to mention in the video is folks putting a large spool of thread directly on the machine which causes a lot of problems. If your using large spools it should be fed using a thread holder and can be had on amazon for around 10 bucks. Anyway, thanks for the comment!

[@plakor6133]

I have mine permanently set up on a bench in my shop. I use it for all kinds of odd little attaching/sewing jobs. It's a great tool. Yes, a little finicky sometimes, but usually it works fine. I did wind up modifying the thread feed so the thread feeds off a large spool freely.

[@aviantileathersandfurs9596]

its junk tons of machines just like this way better quality for a little bit more money! you can keep a consew machine like this for lifetimes! this machine is crap

[@Steelplayer59]

Great video! Wish I’d have seen your video when I first got my machine! I’ve since added a gear motor and foot switch. Sewed lots of things with this machine besides leather, including making upholstery such as seats for tractors and 4-wheelers. I even patched a pair of my shoes, lol!

[@debslovingstitches]

Great idea

[@Steelplayer59]

​@@debslovingstitches Thank you! Still much to learn! 😂

[@sunshinedancer5509]

Thanks so much for this information. I'm a "beginner tinkerer" and appreciate the suggestions. I had to return mine, but I'm trying again this coming week.

[@davefarnsworth3020]

Great video. I just recently got one of those contraptions, and liked it so much I immediately hit the buy again button on eBay. Set the second machine up to use the commercial #20 135x17 and 135x16 needles from my Sailrite. Ordered some #22, and#23 needles to try with some 207 thread and got it working with the #22. The #23 needles won't fit down through the channel, but I think with a little massage for my Dremel I can get it to work. I did deburr the holes in the shuttle and ran the 207 thread over the top of the shuttle tension spring. Used both upper tension assemblies

[@ChucksMagic]

Great, glad you like yours so much! I get to like mine more and more each day. It really is a fantastic little machine if you put some effort into it.

[@fmphotooffice5513]

Multimedia review: Essentially 3 types of machinery or how-to video makers: 1. Some guy trying to hold their phone with one hand and work with the other. 2. Some guy cursing at their auto-focus until they get a half-baked but usable shot of the procedure. 3. The smart guy who simply edits in STILL PICTURES of critical details to make the video excellent and a great reference guide. Well done. The machine looks like a tinkerer's next project and potentially a useful implement to get work done for you.

[@richardaraujo3492]

Just found this, EXCELLENT video and instruction. Thank you for making this. It's the clearest and most succinct video I've found on this machine, which I've been hesitant to buy.

[@ChucksMagic]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Biokemist-o3k]

Chuck you are amazing my friend!! I would like to customize some of my sneakers and other items . You absolutely read my mind with your explanation of how and why I started looking for a sewing machine. I am a chemical engineer by education however I want to change my image. I found some Louis Vuitton leather and I am planning on making a set of sneaks for myself. The sewing machines are ridiculous expensive so I stopped looking. I was watching a couple on Ebay and all of a sudden a guy offers me one for a price I could not turn away. It will be here in a couple days. Just awesome!!!!

[@POULPY47]

Lucky you are ! The frame is fully painted with a cool green . Very informative vidéo . Thanks for sharing !

[@VitalityMassage]

Everything about his video is golden! The intro overview of what we're all thinking is the best! I knew I'd come to the right place after about one minute! Then the recommendation of the group on Facebook at the end was GREAT and everything in between. Excellent man. Thanks.

[@ChucksMagic]

@Vitality Massage Thanks for the compliment! Glad you liked the video!

[@peterkou2682]

It is a work of art, inspired by function , worthy of display with occasional use. More color choice might be good.

[@thermion7869]

I have watched numerous videos on setting up this machine, but this is the best by far!

[@ChucksMagic]

Wow, thanks!

[@sworntattoo498]

Got mine yesterday! Thank you so much for this information. Liked and subscribed!

[@ChucksMagic]

Glad I could help! Thanks!

[@Awannabestylist]

Very well-done. I have one of these machines, and I just reviewed your video again as a refresher.

[@marionkelton3670]

Thank you so much. I just saw this on TEMU for $89. You have given me the incentive to purchase.. thank you

[@nelsod76]

Well done sir. Succinct well produced content. Extremely useful. I fit the profile you describe at the beginning and will be buying one of these units. I am trying to figure out thread and needles. Largest thread and needle it’s capable of. I would use it to mend and modify various items. Example- recently I used my hand stitching awl to add a webbed nylon loop on my son’s heavy duty “badger” nylon tool belt and now need to restitch a leather tape measure holder. Thankyou thankyou

[@rawpraisehorn5716]

Jewel ---, have had one for about 5 years , have used it many times and really like it. Made lots of stuff with it. To make getting the hang of it easier, watch some of the YT videos. You don’t need to do any of the fancy filing and cleaning some recommended. You can even use the three little leg stand that comes with it . I used mine with the flimsy stand for about a year , it does work. By the way , this is probably the best video on this machine yet, good job!

[@2sambell]

Great video on the shoe patcher machine. I viewed many videos on the shoe patcher but yours by far is the best!!!

[@ChucksMagic]

Hey thanks, I appreciate the compliment!

[@NahtShure]

This video is enormously helpful! Thank you!

[@badeduun1650]

Your thorough video is a hidden jewel; to the point with tips how to setup and troubleshoot. Easy subscribe, many thanks.

[@ChucksMagic]

Hey thanks! I appreciate you taking the time to comment and for subscribing

[@earlelzy9975]

I want to thank you for you explanation of this machine. I am a DIYer and michanicly inclined and I think I could use this machine to help me with my leather projects because I hand stich all of my projects as a new leather crafter. I have seen several videos of this machine to help me decide to get it or not.

[@ChucksMagic]

@Earl Elzy I'm glad you liked the video. I started out hand stitching all my leather projects and if you've ever hand stitched a belt you will love this machine once you get it set up right.

[@John-d7p]

Perfect Intro. Although, it will never be a jewel, but it will be functional. unless your that guy over in the UK, who completely rebuilt his, and now has a machine that looks and functions like a vintage 1800's British locomotive. Belongs in an Industrial Art musuem.

[@10WDirty]

This is a life saver. Thank you!

[@quentinhilpert9606]

I filed my bobbin case bottom edge rounded. Bobbin case (my definition) is the thing that holds the thread spool. The rounded edge lets the thread slip under the bobbin between the rotator thingy (the thing that holds the bobbin case with small gear) and bobbin. Most machines the thread slips over the bobbin.

[@smcewen7]

Awesome! I make take back the Heavy Duty Singer I just bought and get one of these.

[@johnnynephrite6147]

When I lived in China, there was a guy with one of these on the street corner. He saved me lots of time and money on shoe repairs. He'd fix my shoes right on the spot in a few minutes and for 20-30 rmb.

[@rockymountainman]

Fantastic video!! Thank you so much for this very detailed video

[@nnordin384]

My machine didn't come with the wire for feeding the thread. .030 or .035 Mig wire works well for this. Also had the mentioned issue with the nut on the crank handle backing off. Drilled and tapped the nut for a setscrew and haven't had to mess with it since.

[@thomashverring9484]

What an absolutely excellent video! Thank you!

[@allexramsey9015]

Extremely clear and concise explanation. Thank you. 👏❤️👌👍

[@blaykjord6171]

good tip, idk if it affects leather. But take a lighter to end threads!

[@ChucksMagic]

It does work , just have to be careful not to scorch the leather.

[@buddyhutchins3782]

Thanks for a very well done set of instructions. Anaco, Vzla,

[@janvanassen7358]

That is a cool machine, cheap and works fine . I'm living in Brazil and will started to work with leather, maby is this machine a option because every other machine is real expensive. Tanks YOU to show the way or many other people 👍👍👍👍👍

[@ChucksMagic]

@jan vanassen Yes, like I say in the video, if you're mechanically inclined and willing to put in the effort to fine tune this machine, it can surely be a less expensive option for a leather sewing machine. There is a link in the description for the exact machine I purchased. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment! Good luck!

[@rockyreynolds4027]

Best how to video I’ve ever seen thank you sir you earned a subscribe

[@ChucksMagic]

Thanks for the sub!

[@georgegower3136]

That intro is exactly my jurney of discovery. word. for. word!

[@ChucksMagic]

Yeah, I was just relaying my experience with the process. Hope I helped you out!

[@zeeshanhameed3289]

Very well explained 🤝🏽 thanks alot

[@abelvillarreal6488]

Excellent video. I love my shoe patcher, and have learned a great deal about fine tuning this very versatile machine. Thank you.

[@ChucksMagic]

Glad you liked the video! Thanks for taking the time to stop by and comment!

[@tg5509]

It's initially an unfinished peice of well-built junk. But if you spend alot of time with sand paper, a dremel and buffing wheel, scotch Brite, wire brush, and just go thru and get all the scuffs and sharp edges out so it doesn't cut your line and repeatedly get snagged, and learn how to equalize your bobbin and top thread tension for a even looking stich on top and bottom, then your good! Alot of effort, then it's a JEWEL!

[@knoptop]

Great Video! Thanks!

[@jonm2522]

After watching this video, I am gamne to try one of these machines, great instructions mate well done. Where do you recommend to get one.

[@briankesslerpresents7759]

Such a great video on so many levels. Thank you for your mind and heart. I learned a lot. And mine is staring me in the face waiting to be set up. Today is the day. Thanks !!

[@ChucksMagic]

@Brian Kessler Presents Glad you enjoyed the video! Good luck with your set-up. Take your time and enjoy the process!

[@Zippoking1969]

Great video fella, very helpful, cheers

[@ChucksMagic]

Glad it helped

[@jamesfargo8574]

Awesome review and tutorial...love the base you made, that's the best I've seen!

[@ChucksMagic]

@James Fargo Glad you enjoyed the video and yeah, I really like the stand I made also!

[@MixedMuscleArts]

Thanks for sharing, some of your video commentary was hilarious. 😂

[@ChucksMagic]

You're welcome

[@stevenjordan6389]

Very well done video.Thank you.

[@ChucksMagic]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Ms_AP_]

What size bobbin does it take? You should be able to find additional bobbins so you could load multiples to have ready or to have different colors loaded up ready to go

[@dragonclaw88]

Awesome vid!

[@rafaelalarcon8299]

Great video very well done thank you

[@kenburke8302]

Please share which model/manufacturer this is. Very helpful, thanks!

[@BuffaloBilagaana]

Rather than using a dremel on the presser foot, could you have just used a longer needle for the thicker leather?

[@ChucksMagic]

I don't think so. The machine is designed for HAx1 / 15x1 needles. If you were to use a longer needle it would change the timing.

[@thermion7869]

Only Just found this video, its the best.

[@ChucksMagic]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ZulfiqarAli-q1u]

​@@ChucksMagic1:30

[@InspiralJez]

awesome video, thank you!

[@larrywithrow5876]

Excellent informative video Chuck. One of the best I’ve seen out there, n I’ve seen lots. Lol Hope to get mine up n running soon. Thanks for your expertise.👊 p.s. I’ve also subscribed.

[@ChucksMagic]

@Larry Withrow Thanks for the kind words and for the sub. I really appreciate it!

[@kiyotakakaneko3602]

I recently bought the same machine and put a motor on it.

[@holisticveterans6682]

Best vid online! I’m having trouble breaking thread when trying to back stitch… any advice? Thanks so much

[@ChucksMagic]

@Holistic Veterans Usually if you're breaking thread it's from too much tension either on your bobbin or top thread. Strange if it's just while back stitching. I suggest you pose your question on the Chinese Leather Shoe Patcher group, there's a link in the description. There's folks on there that have a lot of experience with this machine. Thanks for the comment and good luck with your problem!

[@flobeeonekinobee9519]

Brilliant machine for the money

[@CludzyMasta]

Still problematic: using the foot shifts the needle ever so slightly, but it seems to correct itself on the way down so it passes the hole. Its like a very gentle half eliptical curve On testing really thick layers however, the needle doesnt seem to correct and it hits the plate and breaks, perhaps because the material itself prevents the needle curving back.. As a "fix" i just ended up stitching without the foot semi freestyle after marking the leather, which is faster than by hand and accurate. However is this strange needle shift when the foot slides back normal? And if not, any tips to correct it? Something in the mechanism clearly is causing it to happen Hello, great video. I have a problem where when the presser foot is engaged, the needle seems to be shifting missing the hole to the bobbin and breaks. Machine works fine when presser foot is elevated, problem only occurs when the presser foot lever is engaged. Any idea how to go about trouble shooting this? Edit: The first needle stab is fine, but when the foot moves once, the problem occurs. Edit 2: Just fixed it. The issue was i incorrectly assumed i could leave the base plate screw a little loose as you just flipped it off with the screw still in to access the bobbin, and it was causing the plate to shift with the foot movement. I could only see this once i removed the leather i was stitching to see the needle path (should have done that before breaking 3 needles). Tightening the base plate so it doesnt move along with the foot fixed the issue. Interestingly it wasnt being triggered when the foot wasnt down and just the material was sliding along it. I also realized the base plate could be lifted with the screw engaged tight - so easy bobbin access remains with no need to fully unscrew it as per what i saw in this video (i didnt understand it what i was seeing fully). This is my first sewing machine, and i currently find it way more complex than simply sewing leather by hand. Even back stitching accurately is tricky at the moment - clearly i need more practice

[@gergemall]

Thank you Chuck .😊😊

[@ChucksMagic]

@JON Gergeceff No problem, you're certainly welcome and thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@centerspike6463]

Great video

[@ChucksMagic]

Thanks!

[@k9road]

...Great demo, thank you so much...

[@ChucksMagic]

@k9road You're welcome, glad I could help!

[@k9road]

@@ChucksMagic... your video convinced me to order one from amazon 😊...always wanted something to do canvas and leather ...thanx again...

[@Wallfixer1]

Can I ask which machine you got, going to picking one soon. Great info and video!!!

[@ChucksMagic]

I got this one off of Amazon, it's advertised as the FamYun Hand Cobbler Shoe Repair Machine. It had as good of reviews if not better than any of the other machines I saw on Amazon. Thanks for watching and good luck with your purchase!

[@michaelpate5426]

I seen people sewing a tire with that thing

[@komrad40]

Thanks a lot ❤

[@richj5762]

Thanks, for this video, well made.

[@angelahatfield5683]

Can this machine zigzag? Is it worth screwing to a table for stationary use?

[@waynesinclairr7721]

Excellent video angles, thx

[@ChucksMagic]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@jmuraidajr]

I'm going the buy one of these machines, I'm not made of money and retried. I make holsters on the side using 7-8 oz. the leather. I would like to know want is the thickest tread I can use is and what size nail do I need to buy? Anything you can give me would be helpful! I'm tired of saddle stitching and it's a killer on the finger.

[@Youtuberkit7]

Sir I’m planning to do DIY sandal. Is this can do on webbing stitching? Thanks for great reviews

[@bigchrisrogers]

Yes

[@macgyver2417]

Great ,informative video. Thanks

[@ChucksMagic]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@LarrySnyderIII]

which direction are you turning the crank to start

[@ahmedebeidalimohamed6544]

Dear, how are you? I have followed you. I have this machine. I have installed it, but when I turn it on, it does not turn on me, and when I remove the bobbin, it works. What is this problem? Can you help me?

[@TheAwesomeSam]

great video! if i want to buy extra bobbins for this machine, what size bobbins should I buy?

[@ChucksMagic]

Hey, Glad you liked it! I think there is only one size bobbin that will fit. I get mine from www.bantamsaddletack.com/ There $4.75 for a pack of 5. Thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@larryshin7086]

Hi, what thread do you recommend? Thank you!

[@ChucksMagic]

I like #69, anything heavier can be used, but is a little harder to work with.

[@robertchall8576]

That's some good info thanks.

[@ChucksMagic]

@Robert C Hall Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@ItAintMeBabe99]

Fantastic video, thanks for making it. BTW, what type and size needle were you using ? Do you recommend a chisel point for leather ?

[@ChucksMagic]

@itaintmebabe99 I'm glad you liked the video. I'm using a size 20 needle and #69 thread. There standard needles not chisel pointed. I get them online from Bantam Saddle Tack. I bought some other sizes from them, but this combination works so well I haven't tried them. Check out the facebook group I mention in the video. Lots of conversation on needles and thread on there. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!

[@glack5558]

I like making knives and possibly gun holsters and other miscellaneous leather things. The leather I would like to use is thicker than what you demonstrated on. Is the machine capable to sew a latigo weight type leather? And what type of thread would you recommend? Where would you recommend getting the thread and will the machine properly tension a nylon strength type thread or these all cotton threads? Thanks for the video, it was very good. 😊

[@randolphchappel6098]

Are they all the same machine that I see on Amazon? They’re all similar but a little different in price.

[@ChucksMagic]

Most are the same, some have more bearing in them. The coloured pea model has the additional bearings and is a little more expensive. amzn.to/3rB2Pyq

[@MadeByPam]

Great video, thanks

[@ChucksMagic]

Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@negrueugen7055]

Thanks man

[@ChucksMagic]

No problem

[@jaemobley5637]

Worked on mine it sews great. However I make knife sheaths and t69 or 70 is kinda light for heavy leather. How do you modify for heavier thread?

[@ChucksMagic]

You have to use a different size needle and adjust the tension. Don't remember what size for the larger thread off the top of my head, but Google should know. Tension is a trial and error thing, again, Google and the CLSP Facebook group are your friends!

[@spunn_co]

dont drop it off your hood of car .. or u might brake the bearings like i did ..but it still spwes

[@InspiralJez]

what needles does it take? thanks!

[@MrWoignier]

thanx a lot.

[@ChucksMagic]

Most welcome!

[@petermccracken2247]

THANK YOU !!! WELL INFORMED> WELL MADE VIDEO>

[@PringleSticks]

Great Video!!

[@ChucksMagic]

Thanks!

[@angelahatfield5683]

What size needles does it use?

[@TexasEdition]

Do you find it difficult trying to control the work wtih one hand?

[@ChucksMagic]

It's a little cumbersome, but I manage. Some have added motors to the machine so they can be advanced by a foot switch leaving you with both hands free. Hope this helps!

[@WV591]

this is a junk jewel and no bragging rights for the price, once tuned it gets the job done for a biginner. or spend 3000 on a leather sweing macine with bragging rights and start making payments.

[@joseaquino7175]

No entiendo porque no se inglés