what thread will I use?

[Boothill Bob]

Howdy pards..
I've got an Old Singer and I wonder what thread I will use for the holsters? I have used a thread that come with the machine, maby linnen or cotton. Now I have to bye more and I dont know what kind and size I'll use Its'n jungle out there.
Help pls.
BhB

[Slamfire]

What's the # no., on your mach. You know what size is it???







  Hootmix.

[Boothill Bob]

No, I dont know that.. It 1mm..

[outrider]

Bob,

I think he is asking what the type the singer machine is....model and serial number

[Trailrider]

The problem you may run into, if your Singer is one intended for general fabric sewing, is that the needle size may not accomodate thread that is as big as you need for sewing heavier leather used in holster-making. If you have a heavier duty machine, and it will handle 2, 3, and even 4-cord (138, 207 and 277) thread and needles in the 160,180 and 200mm range, you should go for polyester thread, although I have used nylon for years with no problems or complaints, prior to poly being available.

[Boothill Bob]

Ahhhh... Its an 132k2, got a load of different size needles for it. The thread I use now is around 1mm linnen or cotton, but it
seams hard to find.

[Trailrider]

OK. I did a quick google of the 132K series. I couldn't find the K2 but found K5's and 6's, obviously newer models. The basic machine seems big enough to handle leather sewing chores. I would check online for perhaps an owner's manual to see what needles go with that size machine. I would bet that the European-size numbers I outlined before will fit. As I mentioned, I use #204 thread (3 cord by the military designation) and #277 (4 cord), and sometimes #138 for lighter work. These will work with the #160, #180 and #200mm needles respectively. You should be able to order these size threads from major suppliers of sewing machine materials. I believe Tandy/Leather Factory carries poly thread in at least #207 size. I obtain mine from a local sewing machine company specializing in all sorts of industrial machines. (Try Ralph's in Denver.)  Interestingly, even older sewing machines don't depreciate significantly, and hold their value, presuming they are in good working order and are maintained at least half-decently.

When the Space Shuttle was flying, the parachutes used to recover the big nylon parachutes were originally these big old Singers. They only were replaced by new machines when parts could no longer be readily obtained. Wish I had bought one when they were surplussed out! Would have save me a couple thous I had to spend for a Juki TSC442 several years later.