Working with the Consew CP 206R Sewing Machine

Threading the needle on the Consew CP 206R is so easy we were tempted to make it complicated when it wasn’t necessary.

There is only one thread guide on top of the machine, then the tension guide disc, the thread take up lever and the needle. Is there any way for it to be more simple?

We tend to want to make it more detailed – especially since it is considered a ‘specialty’ sewing machine. The manufacturer of this machine truly keeps its set up and operation as simple as possible.

Threading the bobbin is just as easy. Simply load an empty bobbin onto the bobbin pin, disengage the needle by turning the balance wheel a quarter turn toward you and pressing the foot pedal.

The bobbin shuttle is uncomplicated as well, just load the filled bobbin into the bobbin case and snap it in place.

If you are accustomed to sewing on conventional sewing machines, you will find that working on the Consew CP 206R is interesting to say the least.

The comparison is somewhat like driving a car with power steering to driving one without it. The car still handles curves and navigates sharp turns, but with a little more effort on your part.

That is not to say that sewing on a Consew CP 206R is at all challenging… just with a different feel. The other difference we noted was the placement of the presser foot lever.

On nearly all sewing machines, even the vintage models, the presser foot lever is on the back of the needle uptake housing.

On the Consew CP 206R, it is located on top of the machine. Making this adjustment was slightly challenging, but once we got used to it, raising and lowering the presser foot was uncomplicated and quite effortless.

During the review, we worked with very thick leather and medium weight vinyl. The results for both were exceptional. The stitch quality was superlative.

Adjusting the tension was not at all challenging. Just turning the dial above the needle to the right or left tightened or loosened the tension until the proper setting was located.

Which fabrics work on the Consew CP 206R?

Fabrics that work	Fabrics that don’t work
Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Upholstery Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber	n/a

• An owner’s manual
• Oil
• A screwdriver
• A commercial thread stand
• A variable speed foot control
• Extra bobbins
• Needles
• A hard plastic carrying case

What are some alternatives for Consew CP 206R?

We have reviewed several machines similar to the Consew CP 206R, and here are some we recommend.

If you think your sewing is the best, then the Singer Heavy-Duty 4432 deserves a place in your sewing room. The machine steps ahead with its strong metal frame and 110-stitch applications, allowing you to work on multiple projects. Besides, this model’s fast motor surprises you by sewing up to 1,100 stitches per minute. Therefore, you can easily work on larger projects. And make the most out of its one-step buttonhole and needle threader.

• The machine satisfies you with stitches such as utility, decorative, and stretches, offering you the flexibility to complete several projects.
• It consists of an automatic needle threader, a free arm to sew cuff, and an option to adjust stitch length and width.

• This model does not offer you features such as programmable stitches and LCD screens.
• The buttonhole may not provide accurate results like in higher-end models.

$999.00

The new Juki TL-2010Q is a high-performance sewing and quilting machine. The TL-2010Q is a single-needle, lock-stitch, portable machine, constructed of aluminum die-casting to ensure industrial-quality sewing and quilting. This machine is made for precise sewing, with features like an industrial sub-tension system, a slider for changing the speed, and bright white LED lights. With a large work area of up to 23 inches (with auxiliary table attached), the TL-2000Qi can handle large quilting, sewing, or home decor projects with ease.

Some of my favorite features are the needle up/needle down, speed control, and thread cutter. The thread cutter works when you bounce your heel back and forth on the foot pedal. This is a sturdy workhorse that is strong and nicely made. It only has a straight stitch, though.

Why does that matter? The machine only produces great straight stitches that don't tangle or develop bird's nests on the underside when they are sewn. It features a very quick motor, like a machine used in industry.

What are the features on Consew CP 206R?

The Consew CP 206R was designed to replace the Consew 146R zigzag machine.

The first thing we noticed about the Consew CP 206R was the walking foot, followed by the molded plastic 18 inch ruler etched on the front of the machine, the differential feed and the large, heavy duty needle.

A seal affixed to the front of the machine recommends that 135×17 standard upholstery needles be used exclusively.

Regardless of size (22, 20, 18 etc.), the 135×17 needle is among the strongest sewing machine needles available, capable of handing the thicker, heavy duty threads required for working with medium to heavy weight leather, upholstery, vinyl, canvas, coated and laminated fabrics and an array other super thick materials – such as straw.

This is a straight stitch only machine with the capability of producing about 800 sturdy stitches in a minute.

The ¼ inch clearance under the walking foot, coupled with a conveniently placed presser foot adjustment dial and a top and bottom dual feed allow for easy manipulation of thick fabrics.

A finger safety guard is included to provide a safer working surface. A spring loaded reverse lever makes it easy to lock stitches and change direction while sewing.

Consew CP 206Rs sold in the United States come with a standard 90 day warranty on labor and defects in workmanship or materials. Machines sold outside the US come with a 90 day warranty on parts and labor only.