How to Upgrade a $100 Chinese Leather Patcher Sewing Machine (CLPS)

Updating the $100 Amazon Chinese Leather Patcher Sewing Machine (CLPS) can be a rewarding project, especially when you add custom upgrades using a 3D printer. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps I took to update my machine, improve its functionality, and add custom parts.

- Angle grinder with 80 and 100-grit sanding discs

- Sandpaper (240, 320, and 400 grit)

- Filler primer

- Paint (spray or brush-on)

- 3D printer

- Basic hand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers)

- Socket head hardware (replacement nuts and bolts)

- Belt sander

- 3mm nutsert kit and screw

- Sewing machine oil

--3D printed parts found here https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/tool/chinese-leather-patcher-sewing-machine-clps-updates

Start by completely disassembling your sewing machine. Carefully remove all the parts and set them aside. Once the machine is broken down, use a cleaning solvent to remove any oil or grime from the parts.

To clean up the parts, I used an angle grinder with 80 and 100-grit sanding discs. This removes rust and old paint while smoothing out rough surfaces. Afterward, hand sand each part using progressively finer sandpaper (240, 320, and 400 grit) to create a polished finish.

Once the parts are prepped, focus on the machine's frame. First, apply several coats of filler primer to smooth out any imperfections. After the primer has dried, finish with a coat (or two) of durable paint for a fresh new look.

If you have access to a 3D printer, now is the time to design and print custom components to upgrade your machine. Here’s a list of the parts I printed for my machine:

- Base with a built-in drawer: I designed a stand with a small drawer underneath to utilize the empty space for tool storage.

- Tension knobs: I replaced the stock knobs with custom 3D-printed ones.

- Sewing table: A sturdy, flat surface to make handling projects easier.

- Edge guide: Helps ensure straight stitching along the edge of the leather.

- Decorative dragon for the flywheel and gear for the outside: These pieces will allow for a future motor upgrade.

- Spool plate: A custom-designed plate to hold the thread spool.

- Magnetic nameplate: This design includes magnets to help easily remove the bobbin.

---- 3D printed parts found here ----

One major flaw I noticed was that the machine only had a bearing on the front of the main shaft, while the rear side had just a cast metal piece. To improve this, I 3D-printed a new bearing holder for the rear, allowing me to install an additional bearing, which enhanced the machine’s stability and performance.

Next, I replaced all the nuts and bolts with socket head hardware, giving the machine a sleeker, more modern appearance. These are more durable and easier to handle than traditional hex bolts.

The original thread lead base had a bird-like appearance that I didn’t care for. I used a belt sander to reshape it into something more functional and visually appealing.

One of the issues I found was with the omni-directional wrench that rotates the presser foot. One of the “ears” on the wrench was turned up. I drilled it out, installed a 3mm nutsert, and added a 3mm screw, which now allows me to tighten and lock the presser foot in place for more control.

Once all the parts were cleaned, painted, and upgraded, I reassembled the entire machine. Take your time during reassembly, ensuring that all parts are correctly aligned and that moving components are well-oiled.

After reassembly, test the machine on scrap leather to ensure that everything functions smoothly. Adjust the tension, presser foot height, and needle as necessary.

Upgrading an Chinese Leather Patcher Sewing Machine is a great project for anyone interested in combining traditional machinery with modern techniques like 3D printing. The custom parts not only improve the machine’s functionality but also give it a personalized touch. If you have any other ideas for upgrades, feel free to try them out!