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Consew CN 2053 R-1 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Consew CN 2053 R-1 review was originally written in 2012, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added similar alternatives such as JUKI DDL8700H, Juki TL-2010Q, and Brother 1034D.
The Consew CN 2053 R-1, that we have reviewed today, is a heavy duty industrial sewing machine that is capable of rendering up to 2,500 stitches in a single minute. This machine is a tailor’s dream. The Consew CN 2053 R-1 is a no-frills workhorse. It is large and fast enough to be efficient, yet easy for the advanced sewer to operate and sturdy enough to stand up to a lot of intense work over extended hours for a long, long time.
Consew CN 2053 R-1 Overview
The Consew CN 2053 R-1 is a high-speed, single-needle, lockstitch machine that is ideal for heavy-duty sewing applications. This machine has a maximum sewing speed of 2,000 stitches per minute, making it a great choice for sewing through thick fabrics, such as denim, leather, and canvas. The CN 2053 R-1 features a large bobbin and vertical-axis hook that allows for efficient thread handling and prevents thread breakage. The machine also has a built-in automatic lubrication system, which ensures smooth and consistent performance over time. Additionally, the machine's presser foot can be easily adjusted to accommodate different thicknesses of fabric, allowing for greater versatility in sewing applications.
One of the key features of the Consew CN 2053 R-1 is its heavy-duty construction. The machine's frame is made of cast iron, which provides stability and durability during operation. The machine also comes with a large workspace, which is ideal for handling large projects. Another notable feature is the machine's safety clutch mechanism, which prevents damage to the machine in the event of thread or needle breakage. The CN 2053 R-1 also comes with an assortment of accessories, including several types of presser feet, bobbins, and needles, making it a versatile and practical investment for anyone who needs a heavy-duty sewing machine for commercial or industrial applications.
This particular machine is equipped with a 220 volt/550 watt ¾ horsepower Electronic Servo motor, making it quieter and more energy efficient than the traditional clutch motors which are used on many industrial sewing machines.
At 30 pounds, the 3450 RPM Electronic Servo motor weighs 30 pounds, meaning it is about 15 pounds lighter than a standard clutch industrial sewing machine motor. The electronic motor is idle when the machine is not actually running and runs only when presser foot engaged. It features a six volt plug which can be used to connect ancillary units if necessary.
Not only is the sewing room more quiet, with the Electronic Servo motor, it is also cooler. Clutch motors, on the other hand, run constantly from the time the power switch is turned on until it is shut off. A 220 volt,550 watt ¾ horsepower Electronic Servo motor. The high torque electronic servo motor is easy to install, requiring no clutch disc. A belt guard is included and rubber motor mounts reduce annoying vibration when the machine is in use.
The top of the adjustable height worktable measures 47 x 21 inches, and features an on-board gooseneck lamp, which can be easily adjusted to shed plenty of light on sewing projects.
The table height can be set to stand at as low as 24 inches up to 36 inches on durable galvanized steel legs, allowing for optimum work height for sewers of any size. The all metal construction of this utilitarian machine head is uncomplicated and easy for the advanced sewer to sit down and go to work. The Consew 2053 R-1 requires a very small learning curve for anyone who is well versed in the basic operation of a sewing machine.
What are the features on Consew CN 2053 R-1?
The highly functional and easy to use built in bobbin winder, horizontal axis transverse rotary hook and drop feed single needle features enable the user to get up and running on any project quickly, no matter if it is an alternation, a mending task or constructing a new garment. The combination zigzag and straight stitching capacity makes it easy to attach lace or elastic as well as to finish a seam, or embroider. The Consew CN 2053 R-1 can deliver up to 2,500 stitches in a minute. Straight length varies from 0-5mm for straight stitches and 0-9 millimeters for zigzag stitches.
Reverse stitching and seam or stitch locking is made easy with the handy reverse stitch lever, conveniently located on the right hand side of the machine head. With the Consew CN 2053 R-1, users can raise the presser foot two different ways – by using the knee lift located at the right knee, or via the traditional method by lifting the lever situated behind the needle. While the Consew CN 2053 R-1 is a single needle machine, the needle position can be adjusted to accommodate custom jobs with just one step. The built in bobbin winder is convenient and uncomplicated.
The work table features a drawer on the left hand side to accommodate accessories like scissors, tape measures, oil and other essentials, but it isn’t large enough to hold the owner’s manual. On the right side of the table, a customized tray is inserted to hold an assortment of small accessories like bobbins, pins, needles, thimbles and needle threaders.
The power switch is easy to find at our fingertips on the right corner of the worktable.
Working on the Consew CN 2053R-1
With its ability to produce up to 2,500 stitches per minute, this is one of the fastest sewing machines around. The foot pedal does require a little bit more than a light tough to get going, but when it gets engaged, the Consew CN 2053 R-1 really takes off. Adjusting the stitch length or zigzag width is not complicated, but it isn’t all that easy to figure out how to master the feature.
However, once you perfect that skill, you will find that adjusting the stitch width length and width is not at all difficult. Locking the zigzag stitch length is easily accomplished by simply turning a small knob just above the stitch length regulator. Threading the needle and winding the bobbin are uncomplicated tasks, if you already know how to get the jobs done, but don’t rely on the owner’s manual.
Reading the instruction manual that comes with the Consew CN 2053 R-1 is like reading Chinese – literally. That’s because the machine was manufactured in China and the manual was clearly written by people for whom English is not the first language.
Adjusting the tension is not difficult for the advanced sewer who is accustomed to the fine art of finding the just right tension adjustment for the thread and fabric they are working with, but the process could prove to be quite the challenge for the novice sewer or even the advanced sewer who has become accustomed to sewing machines equipped with an automatic tension adjustment feature.
Working on the Consew CN 2053 R-1 is fast and quiet… at least quiet when compared to industrial sewing machines equipped with clutch motors. The one quarter inch clearance under the presser foot paired with adjustable presser foot pressure makes this machine a good choice for alterations, mending, garment construction, and lightweight upholstery projects.
It is also great for working with elastic or lace. You could even use the Consew CN 2053 R-1 to work with thin to medium thickness leather and suede. There is a button that releases the pressure on the presser foot, allowing for slightly thicker fabrics, but this machine is ideally suited for thin, lighter weight fabrics.
The Consew CN 2053 R-1 can be purchased assembled for approximately $900 or unassembled for about $300 less. Assembling the Consew CN 2053 R-1 is not any more complicated than putting any other industrial sewing machine up. In the case of this one, the installation process for the Electronic Servo motor is no more tedious than installing a clutch motor because the motor mounts are in the exact same locations as those found on clutch motors.
What are some alternatives for Consew CN 2053 R-1?
We have reviewed several lockstitch machines similar to the Consew CN 2053 R-1 and here are some that we highly recommend.
The Juki DDL-8700, hailed as the "Best Overall for Commercial Use," stands as a testament to Juki's commitment to sewing excellence. This industrial sewing machine, designed for light to medium fabrics, prioritizes comfort with reduced vibration and noise. Ideal for those seeking efficient stitching without compromising on quality, the DDL-8700 boasts a maximum speed of 5500 stitches per minute. Precision at its core, it offers a maximum stitch length of 5 mm, making every stitch count. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an ambitious beginner, this complete unit, equipped with a sturdy table, stand, motor, and more, addresses your sewing needs.
- Fast and efficient
- Excellent for heavy canvas and light leather
- Easy to assemble
- No manual included
The Juki TL-2010Q redefines quilting with its exceptional performance and thoughtful features. This single-needle, lock-stitch marvel is crafted using aluminum die-casting for industrial-quality sewing. The automatic thread trimmer ensures efficiency, seamlessly trimming needle and bobbin threads at the sewing end with a simple push-button press. The knee lifter lever adds convenience, allowing hands-free presser foot control with a lift of up to 12 mm. With a large work area of up to 23 inches, the TL-2010Q effortlessly handles sizable quilts, sewing, and home decor projects with ease. Overall, the Juki TL-2010Q is a blend of advanced features and ease of use, making precision sewing a delightful experience for quilting enthusiasts.
- Easy to set up and use
- Has a speed control button
- Comes with assorted thread spools, oil lubricant, different feet attachments, and even a zipper foot
- The needle threader is a bit tricky to use
For more alternatives check the best industrial sewing machines
Which fabrics work on the Consew CN 2053 R-1?
| 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) Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Upholstery | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
What are the accessories that come with Consew CN 2053 R-1?
Accessories included with the Consew CN 2053 R-1 include:
- Extra bobbins
- A variety of throat plates
- Presser feet to accommodate straight and zigzag sewing
- Screwdrivers
- A mesh spool cover
- Oil
- Thread holders
- A plastic cover to protect the head from dust and dirt when it is not in use
- An owner’s manual
How to maintain the Consew CN 2053 R-1?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Consew CN 2053 R-1 Summary
This is not a machine for novices or the faint at heart. While the Consew CN 2053 R-1 is easy for advanced sewers to operate, I figured while reviewing that this fast, high efficiency sewing machine could potentially turn the new sewer against ever touching a sewing machine again.
It is not, by any stretch of the imagination, user friendly for someone who hasn’t been sewing for long. Like other industrial sewing machines, the Consew 2053 R-1 does not come equipped with any of the familiar user-friendly perks like guides for threading, bobbin winding, and applying oil that have become standard on home sewing machines.
Nor does it make it easy for the novice sewer to figure out how to adjust stitch length or width. This, coupled with the speed and the mere thought of working on this sturdy, heavy duty machine with its motor housed underneath the worktable, is enough to strike fear in the heart of anyone who might be new to sewing or intimidated by large, high speed machinery.
Once you get the hang of it, however, creating zigzag designs, monograms and freehand machine embroidery is not much of a challenge for the advanced sewer. The Consew CN 2053 R-1 is great for lightweight sewing jobs. If you already have the right sewing skills, it can monogram and give you some really good freehand zigzag results including monograms and embroidery tasks.
But it takes practice. If you have the time to do that, the Consew CN 2053 R-1 could become your best friend. It is perfect for a tailor or dressmaker who specializes in alterations or custom made suits, dresses, evening gowns and shirts.
Working with lace and elastic is easy with the Consew CN 2053 R-1 for the advanced tailor or seamstress. On the other hand, however, if making heavy upholstery, thick winter coats or working with a lot of thick heavy fabrics like denim or heavy canvas is your thing, then this is not the machine for you.
The owner’s manual that comes with the Consew CN 2053 R-1 is extremely challenging to read and even more difficult to understand. The machine is manufactured in China, and that fact could not be more evident than when you try to read the manual. Most of the manual is written in Chinese.
The English translation is poor at best. For example, every time the word “tension” appears in this challenging owner’s manual it is spelled “tendion.” This occurs no less than four times. Other consistent misspellings are found throughout the manual as well. The grammar is so difficult to follow that you could easily get confused.
Quite honestly, it is probably better for anyone who buys this machine to toss the owner’s manual aside altogether and figure out how to use the Consew CN 2053 R-1 on your own. The Consew CN 2053 R-1 is definitely not for the timid sewer or for one who does not already know their way around a sewing machine.
Anyone who sews professionally would be pleased with this machine. However, do not try to teach your kids or grandkids how to sew on this machine. Between the speed; the nearly impossible to understand user manual and instructions; and the non-user friendly machine itself, the Consew CN 2053 R-1 is only for the well heeled sewer who is not at all intimidated by it.
The quiet energy efficient motor is eco friendly and fast. It is definitely a plus… a surefire move toward a more earth-friendly, energy conscious world.
Consew CN 2053 R-1 Review
Summary
The Consew CN 2053 R-1 is a heavy-duty industrial sewing machine that is capable of sewing up to 2,500 stitches per minute. It is a great choice for sewers who need a machine that can handle heavy fabrics and long hours of work. The machine is durable, reliable, and easy to use. It comes with a variety of features, including a built-in bobbin winder, free-hand monogramming lever, and reverse stitching. However, it can be expensive and not as portable as some other sewing machines.
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Happy Stitching.
I recently purchased this Consew machine, and the manual is, in fact, mostly worthless. You mention how it is confusing to learn how to switch from zigzag to straight stitch, but once the skill is learned, it is a quick switch. Care to give any hints about the process? I’m running trial by error, and I am figuring it out…..but I think a confirmation that I am doing it right (or wrong) would be nice.
Thanks!
Audi – Thanks for visiting Sewing Insight. Trial and error is the best way. I found that literally playing with the machine… changing the needle position and sampling different positions of the stitch length and width dials is the only real way to get a good feel for the various zigzag stitch options. It takes time, but once you get the hang of it, I think you will be satisfied with the results. I suggest you keep a note pad handy so you can write down the settings for the stitch options you like best. Happy Stitching
Very informative! Can you please tell me which similarly priced Consew or other machine you would recommend for using on mainly thicker fabrics.. equivalent to double thickness denim..
Hello, Beth –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
You may want to consider a Consew 733R-5 or one of the machines in the Juki MS series.
I have not reviewed either of these machines, but that they both have the capacity to handle very thick multiple layers of fabric and have excellent track records when it comes to reliability, user satisfaction and quality.
Happy Stitching.
I have a Consew CN2053R, the bobbin winder wasn’t working very good, so I played with the hand wheel and fixed it-winds the bobbins great now but I can’t get the clutch and hand wheel to work together now. Any suggestions?
Where do I begin? I know, DON’T BUY THIS MACHINE!
I will highlight the biggest problems I have had:
1) It is SO noisy.
2) it shakes when you are sewing
3) It pulls your fabric. It doesn’t matter what kind of fabric you are using, I guarantee you will either have puckers, distorted panels, gathering and knots under the needle, broken needles, or broken thread.
3) It has CHEAP CHEAP CHEAP plastic nobs that are SO hard to read and make no sense when you are trying to position your needle, choose your stitch length and width. In fact, if you don’t tighten them COMPLETELY and test them over and over and over again, your needle will not be perfectly centered and will cause teeny tiny little zig zags instead of a clean straight stitch.
4) You can HARDLY do anything about the tension. Again, another SUPER CHEAP plastic nob they put there that serves no purpose at all.
THIS MACHINE IS CHEAP!
Everytime I see someone in videos on youtube or pass by a tailor’s store I envy them for having a good, readable and easy to use machine. This one is drama. I will never get over paying $2,000 for this piece of crap. My next machine will definitely be a Singer or Brother.
Another thing, the fact that NO ONE knows about this brand makes it so hard to buy parts for it. Every salesman I have spoken with has told me these machines are not the greatest and I have no resort but to purchase everything from the man who sold it to me. Whom also said it works with stretch (lies) … works with denim and leather but I am seeing in the reviews that it does not.
Don’t buy this brand.
umm, these are all untrue about the machine i have. It is smooth, quiet and really easy to use (once you throw out the manual and figure it out). My guess is that all your problems are operator error.
That is not true, it sounds that you have never sewn on this type of machine before….mine is very smooth, it sews very heavy fabric and thin fabric, it is all in the needle and adjusting the thread tension along with the type of thread, again depending on what you are sewing, the book sucks, but if you actually read it carefully, it is very informative, somewhat, lol, but it is a great machine, I have the Jimi 8700 and this consew, and they are ecellent sewing machines
Ohh it’s true! I struggle so much with this crap at work! I so much hate it!! I used so many industrial machines so far and different brands, I can tell the difference! This one is a total CRAP!!
I have been sewing for 55 years (since I was 15) and I have a collection of vintage sewing machines, more than 15 at present. I have sewn on all types of both home & industrial machines, and the best machine I have found for working on heavy fabrics & leather is my REX 607Z, which was one of the most inexpensive machines I own. It is a walking foot both straight & zig zag stitch portable machine, made like a tank of solid cast iron. With the proper needle will penetrate the most difficult materials with absolutely no hesistation or slip. If you want a machine that you can store away when not in use, that will handle anything you can get under the pressure foot, the REX 607Z should be your choice…..
Howard
Hi Howard,
I several months ago, purchased a REX 607Z (after long-searching for an AFFORDABLE walking foot machine – I needed to have a macine that could EASILY handle sewing leather). I was so elated to have found the REX 607Z at a price that was realistically affordable for me. I have yet to run ANYTHING through it, I have yet to use it (busy with other stuff, that I wish I wasn’t busy with)!
Here’s my question: How thick (or rather, what thickness) can the REX 607Z handle? I intend to work with leather (soft) of a 3-4oz. weight (approx. a thickness of 1.4 – 1.6mm at most), and will at times, need to pass through 4 layers (approx. 6.4mm thickness) in constructing the seams when adding piping. Without piping my seam thickness will likely be no more than 4mm thick (including a very thin leather lining).
In your experience, do you think the REX 607Z can handle all of my requirements with ease? I do not intend to be sewing 8-hours a day 7-days a week, but I will be making several handbags per week on this machine.
Your input would be most appreciated.
Thank you,
Judy
Hi Judy,
I’ve only sewn normal garment leather, 2 layers & of course crossing some seams with no problems at all…I think since this machine has a 1.5AMP motor you should have no problem…just use the correct size leather needle….this is a very substantial machine….feels as solid as my industrial, except it’s a portable….but a very heavy one indeed….love to hear your progress…
Best regards,
Howard
Feliz día. Disculpe si debo molestar con esta pregunta. Necesito saber como enhebrar exactamente la máquina CONSEW 2053R-1, es recta y zigzag, el manual está en inglés y chino y no logro entender nada¡¡¡ Por favor necesito de su ayuda. Gracias desde ya
Si tienes un chance, mira youtube, y pon el nombre y modelo de tu maquina, hay un buen chance que tu maquina ya esta puesta para entrenar a la persona que la haya comprado, ten paciencia y mira bien a las maquinas que te ofrecen para ensenar y entrenar como coser con ellas
I’m trying to figure out threading on this machine can anyone tell me if there’s a YouTube video to help..
Threading is the same as the Singer 20U 109, hope this helps
Don’t know what machine you have tested on, but I disagree when you stated no multiple layers, no leather, no twill, well I have the same machine and mine does all of it, sorry to disagree, but it is not fair for other sewers not to know that this machine is an excellent one, and it can do what you stated that it couldn’t. comparable to the singer 20u-109
Thank you for the info… My machine has a servo motor and works quite well and I use it for garment clothing and its zig zag … I haven’t had any problems with it..
So glad that your machi we works so well, mind you, this sewing machi e is not for everyone, but still, once you know the little perks, then you will have no problems…:-)
How easy to do embroidery on this machine? Can I only sew simple letters with one color or I can also make a logo or a picture on the fabric?
Yes you can, on both counts
Thank you. I get very different answers whether you actually can or cannot do an embroidery from various vendors. Is there an example/picture you can provide to what extent it can do embroidery? I do not look to mass produce, but more for the hobby purposes, trying different styles and techniques of embroidery.
I will do better than that, there is a lady on YouTube with a similar machine, a Singer, very much like the Consew, (i’ve been told by a few techs that these machines are built in the same factory and given different names) anyways her lookup name is “Marcia Daiane bordados” she is from Brazil, have no idea what she says, lol, however her work is very visual, give it a shot…..you will be surprised……good luck 🙂
Thank you so much Tanya! Her videos are very helpful.
I’m having issues with the tension can someone help me with it ,it’s skipping stitches when zigzagging .
You can also slow down the clutch motor a lot too.You just need to change the pulley for a small one and get a shorter belt.But if you have a servo motor you are set but you will still need a different belt a shorter one.This machine is just like the singer 20U-109 like a few people says it hard to learn just different.I had the singer 20U-109 and now have the Singer 191D-30 and it is way faster than this machine or the 20U-109 I make bicycle frame bags on mine.
Hi, I am thinking about buying this machine for knits and mostly top stitching down elastic on leotards. Do you think this machine will work well for that?
Hello, I am having a hell of a time assembling this CN2053R-1a with servo dial motor and was given two belts a white 40 and a black 36. One seems too loose and the other too tight. What belt size does this machine in the review have on it? Is the machine supposed to come with different plates? Mine only came with the one already installed under the presser foot. I just bought 110/18 size needles for working with a couple layers of thin vinyl and faux leather and some 40 weight cones. Excited to get started just hoping I figured out the assembly alright since like everyone says the manual is useless.
I need the slide needle plate for my consew CN2053 R1