The Upholstery Forum

Hello all.
I'd like to spend the winter learning to sew to do some automotive upholstery work. Again, never used a machine in my life but knowing I'll have all winter to practice I'd like to give it a go.

I found two potential machines but would love feedback on them. A Brother LS2-F52A-059 and a Pfaff 145. Both have tables and servo motors. Both in similar working condition. Is one better suited for auto interiors? I know I'd like to do French seams as some point.

Thanks,
-Rick

Pfaff machines are generally regarded among the best. The Brother machine looks to be a Consew 206RB knock-off. As a learning tool, you would certainly be fine with either, and either would certainly be a keeper if you go into business.

Both are decent basic machines, get the one which is newer and runs well. Upgrade to a servo motor before you waste your time trying to learn a clutch motor if that's what's installed. If they are not well under $1K buy a new machine and have it shipped to you. A new Consew 206RB is $1700. A P1206RB is $1500 (I have this machine and it's been great for the past 5+ years) Consew P1541S-CC is a nice upgrade for $1850. I upgraded from the basic servo motor to a more powerful one with a needle positioner and love it. Buying an old machine is fine, unless it's worn out and needs parts, then with the labor costs you could have easily bought a decent new machine. Industrial sewing machines last decades in service, but only if they are oiled and not abused! I've use Goldstartool in LA before and they have an extensive line of machines and other tools. Sewingmachineman in New Jersey has a crazy amount of listings and low prices, never bought from them but they could be ok, unlikely they are tuning the machines for their low price and likely drop shipping from the mfg warehouse. Do you need lessons? then buying from a local dealer may be a better option for you. Good luck. Whatever you get make sure it's a "tripple feed machine" and has at least 1/2" of presser foot lift for auto upholstery work. Standard Singer 111 feet are good too as they are very cheap online for these machines, if you get the Adler style you will be paying more for all the accessories.

I'm not a professional, just a Jack of all trades, but I've done my learning and quite a successful re upholstery jobs on my 28' cruiser boat and 3 classic cars as well as a few side jobs for friends with this simple and inexpensive machine, which is pretty much a knock off of Sailrite basic walking foot machine.
And it sold well under $1000CDN. Barracuda 200ZW Zig Zag Portable Sewing Machine

I started with a machine like this, get the "monster wheel" if you go this route. It's a very heavy pulley that evens out the sewing due to the 1/10th HP motor.

Hello again.
I’ve found another machine I’d like some feedback on. It’s a “wizard” and looks like a 1950’s style piece of artwork given its colors of cream and aqua green. I was told it had a walking foot and reverse. I’d be using it for auto interior work as a complete newbie. Will this machine suffice?
Thanks

Just the name 'Wizard' does not help much . . . got a model #/name or a picture to share? I think the challenge is that the prices have risen for most machines . . . so what was $500 a few years ago is now around $1,000 . . . Gets a little pricey as a learning tool.