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[TomJG23]

I have no idea how to sew, I am going to learn on YouTube. Any recommendations on a first machine for reupholstery? I want to reupholster couches and recliners, things like that as a hobby. I saw the REX RX - 607 recommended on another forum. $400 isn't too bad but will this be able to do what I need? I already have a couch picked out my plan is to start with the cushions before I start taking it apart. I have watched a bunch of face-lift interiors videos they are great. Really want to get my hands dirty and start messing around. I think this will be alot of fun and better than overpaying for crappy furniture. Can't tell you how many couches I remember throwing out as a kid that were replaced by crap when all they needed were minor repairs.

As I understand it the big factor is the strength to get through all the layers correct? Any input would be much appreciated.

[Mtl_Biker]

I would suggest that's not the best choice of machine for you or what you want to do. Although I do have a similar machine myself, the Sailrite LSZ-1 Premium, which I love. But two things I should point out... The Rex is a clone of the Sailrite (which started off as a clone of something else, but has since been improved and improved), and at least judging by the one I looked at, not a very good quality clone either. The other thing is that the throat size (not sure if that's the right name for the clearance distance between the presser foot and the main part of the machine) is not large enough for the big fabric assemblies you will probably be working with.

And it's unlikely that you need either zig-zag stitches or a portable machine.

What you do need is a large flat table, a machine with compound triple feed (not JUST a walking foot), the ability to put thicker assemblies under the presser foot and sew them. I would strongly suggest you pay attention to the used market and look for something like a Consew RB206-5 flatbed (I have one and it was my first industrial and still my most useful machine) or a Juki equivalent (Juki is sort of the gold standard). You'd probably be able to find a good condition used one for under $1000.

And with the Rex (or Sailrite for that matter) unless you get a proper table to set the machine into, it's really really hard to feed big and thick assemblies through it. (I have a table for my Sailrite where the machine sits into it, not on top of it.) Something like the Consew RB206-5 is really an outstanding machine for upholstery work.

Another forum you might check out is leatherworkers.net, particularly the section about sewing machines. Great advice over there (as well as here).

Good luck with your search for the right machine!

[Adam12]

My opinion is that machine will make stitches but with many drawbacks as @Mtl_Biker suggested. If you were to buy this machine, i almost guarantee one of two scenarios. You will either get frustrated and tired of fighting the material and the machine leading you to purchase a more capable machine, or you will get frustrated and tired and give up sewing altogether. If you have the space, a consew 225/singer 111 can be had for just a little more money, if you intend to continue sewing after your couch is finished i would suggest looking for something like that.

[MalcolmM]

I started out with a Sailrite clone as well, upgraded to the "monster wheel" which made it functional, but quickly bought a Consew P1206RB which I still have and like, though upgraded to a better motor.

[Mtl_Biker]

@MalcolmM - Not to hijack the thread, but what Sailrite clone did you get? I came very close to buying a clone but then I saw a video about the internal differences between the current Sailrite and the clones. That pretty much sold me, and the difference in customer support between Sailrite and the others (drastic!) was the icing on the cake. I started off with the LSZ-1 Premium, bought a Sailrite folding table for it (where the machine pretty much lives) and then upgraded to the WorkerB servo motor. Wow! What an incredible difference that made, and I can literally sew one stitch at a time when doing delicate work. I really love that machine and tend to reach for that before any other. I only wish it had a larger bobbin like my industrial machines.

[Ddedman]

I started out on the kitchen table with a Rex. All of the comments above are true. The Rex machines are definitely not as tight as other higher end machines. That being said if you're unsure that you'll continue sewing and want to test the waters they do sew. I traded up not long after picking up the Rex to a consew industrial machine found on Craigslist. Good industrial machines come up for sale from time to time if your looking and have some time.

[hobo]

Find a good quality used machine designed for what you intend to do. Buying a machine that is less than adequate will cause a lot of frustration and undesirable results that lead to less interest in doing what your intent was. Watch facebook and craigslist a good machine can be found for just a few dollars more than a machine that is not up to the work you want to preform. Be patient but keep looking every day if you see something you want make the person an offer you are comfortable with you never know what they will sell for. I bought a 1508nh clone a while back for $900 that had only been used 5 hrs like new at a huge discount but i had been watching for a long time.

[Rug Dr.]

Had a Rex, nothing but junk. look for an Old Juki. Do you have any repair shops close by, if so they may have some that were traded in??

[John]

@TomJG23 You can get away with the using the rex however you will find it limiting in many ways due to its small size. In my opinion the rex is best used as a portable machine best suited for doing work on site at a marina dock or something.

Make sure to download my free sewing machine buyers guide here! https://theluckyneedle.com/sewing-machine-buyers-guide/
It walks you through all the steps of choosing and purchasing a sewing machine no matter what your budget is.

I hope this helps!

[MalcolmM]

@MalcolmM - Not to hijack the thread, but what Sailrite clone did you get? I came very close to buying a clone but then I saw a video about the internal differences between the current Sailrite and the clones. That pretty much sold me, and the difference in customer support between Sailrite and the others (drastic!) was the icing on the cake. I started off with the LSZ-1 Premium, bought a Sailrite folding table for it (where the machine pretty much lives) and then upgraded to the WorkerB servo motor. Wow! What an incredible difference that made, and I can literally sew one stitch at a time when doing delicate work. I really love that machine and tend to reach for that before any other. I only wish it had a larger bobbin like my industrial machines.

"Tuffsew" I found it on Craigslist locally here in Arizona. After making a few things with it I sent it to a friend who has a large sailboat so he can do some repairs. Still like my Consew P1206RB, though naturally covet a longer arm machine.