I was happy and surprised to find out there was a shop just 1-hour south from me that specializes in industrial sewing machines. I decided I had to go down there and try out some machines to know if I REALLY need an industrial machine… and if so, what features I would like/need. It was a great experience visiting Toledo Industrial Sewing Machines. Bob, the owner, and his son are EXTREMELY patient! I can’t tell you how annoying I must have been trying out all the different machines and going back and forth between them all. I didn’t see them roll their eyes once and they kindly told me about the machines and even switched out some machines so I could try different motors. I left with just a few cones of thread but I have a much better idea of what industrial machines are capable of. I definitely want a servo motor – the clutch motors are too noisy and speed is hard to control. I prefer a machine with reverse capabilities but could live without if it was considerably cheaper. I would be happy with either a flat bed or cylinder machine. I have too many options to choose from! I took some pictures to share. Enjoy!
Heavy-duty threads! They also had binding, scissors and machines attachments.
They have all types of machines, flat bed, cylinder, walking foot, blind-stitch, sergers…
… brand-new, used and REALLY old machines, too!
This machine really caught my attention… it is HUGE!
It was used for several layers of very thick leather, such as making horse tackle.
I can’t see the model # very well, but could probably look up the serial # to date the machine.
Here’s another old machine with a very narrow cylinder arm, probably for shoe repair.
This machine is like the Adler above but treadle-style!
I really liked this machine. It was super smooth and quiet but didn’t have reverse.
This machine had reverse but is new (out of my price range).
New Juki…
… old Juki.
Old Singer Walking foot machine.. has reverse!
Another old Singer walking foot with reverse. I really liked this one because it was quiet, smooth and has a large bobbin!
New Consew with servo motor. This was really nice too and I would love it but I was drawn to the “older souls”.
Old Lewis blind-hemmer.
Jonah isn’t too happy… “hold on buddy.. almost done!”
Here’s the last one of them all! Bob said it was an old machine used to sew tires!
If I ever decide on a machine it is reassuring to know that Bob and his shop are close enough to stop by!
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