GCCSJ Leather Sewing Machine Cobbler Stitching Machine Shoe Repair Machine with Dual Cotton Nylon Line for Sewing Upsolery, Bags, Tents, Clothes, Belt and Coats

Having looked at many of the previous reviews, I was fully expecting a machine requiring some detail overhaul before working properly, but was pleasantly surprised to receive one that worked pretty much perfectly right out of the box. It arrived packaged nicely with no apparent damage, but being as skeptical of the overall quality as I was, found myself sort of a chuckling when I noticed a small “QC Pass” sticker placed near the needle actuator assembly – figuring it was just a gimmick to suggest the machine had been thoroughly tested at some point regardless of what the consumer might actually receive. But there was also a small piece of scrap leather still under the presser foot with several rows of what looked like decent stitches, so I figured who knows, guess we’ll find out soon enough. And as I’ve already stated, other than cleaning off some of the protective oil coating and installing the drive plate, I was able to start sewing almost immediately. Not sure if I just got lucky, or they possibly took some of the negative reviews to heart, and began to actually inspect and adjust each machine as required, but regardless of what reality might be going forward for others, thought I should at least report my own experience. As already mentioned by others, a guy by the name of Harrison Hightower has put together some wonderful YouTube videos on this machine covering everything from basic set-up & sewing tips, to complete machine overhaul. Needless to say, extremely helpful if you decide to take the plunge.

Set up was easy and machine was ready to go. Qualityand value for the money seems great. I use to sew patches on hats. Very functional and so easy to sew on. Threading bobbin can be a little tricky.

Do not buy this instead of a singer or Brother if you want to use if for a NORMAL type sewing machine. For 100 or so dollars this is a good deal for sewing leather and "stuff". This is not an all in one machine. I did not pay attention to the bottom bobbin case when I went to put thread on BECARFUL!!! with this system it is very easy to get the timing of the bottom bobbin off. I also filed the bottom bobbin case around the "bottom on the edge to round the edge a bit. This will help the top thread slip by or around the lower bobbin case (the one filed). Playing around I can sew upholstery weight cloth to the cutout, side-panel of a plastic coffee can. I gave it 5 stars because, it works like its supposed to, it is a really good deal for the money, and it is built like a tiger tank.

I don't know how I got so unlucky, but if I had a dollar for every sharp edge that frays and cuts my thread, I could probably buy a second one of these machines. I guess other people get lucky, but the one I got is a bigger mess than it's worth. Oh, and it's dangerous. A lot of edges that you wouldn't expect are sharp enough to shave with, and it's going to be a couple weeks before some of my fingers heal. So, there's that. Maybe from another seller, they're okay. Maybe. The one I got is on a whole other level of bad finish. I'm 2 full days deep into finishing this junk, and I'm now finding that the spring in the bobbin is basically a razor blade as well. I also had to use vise grips to remove my presser foot because they tightened the screws so tight that they came stripped. That seems to be the case on a lot of the screws and bolts. And they're all ridiculously soft metal. Finally, despite the obscene level of grease that came caked on this machine, it's also about 15-25% rust. But, hey, I can sew a 2 inch line in some leather before the thread gets too frayed by the bobbin spring. Avoid this thing.

This product works great for this price point. BUT. There is a large learning curve and quite a bit of setup (at least with my machine). If not mechanically inclined or know someone who is who’s willing to help than this machine is not for you. I probably watched 6hours of YouTube and fiddled with machine for 3 before I finally got it sewing nice. And sew nicely it does. Had no problem with triple 7# leather, double denim and a patch, and heavy tow straps. Handles small to large threads with ease. Modifications are needed if using larger spools. Stand is pretty chincy but will work. But let’s face it if you can get this thing to work building a stand out of a piece of plywood and a block of 4*4 is a walk in the park.