When it comes to the best heavy duty sewing machine, it’s altogether different from other machines. Even if you plan on making clothes or simpler items, you can’t settle simply for a sewing machine for clothes. The same goes for the best sewing machine for quilting. The heavy-duty sewing machine has a different purpose and should be used accordingly.
Uses of Heavy Duty Sewing Machines
Heavy-duty sewing machines are best for more than just clothing. They’re best for making furniture, bags, and other heavy items that need to be sewn with a machine. A heavy-duty sewing machine is best used when it’s obvious that you’ll need the durability of a heavier-weight fabric or the power of stitching through thicker materials such as leather.
The best heavy duty sewing machine can be used for a number of projects but here are some of the popular ones that you can do with it:
Furniture Making
Furniture making is a popular use for heavy-duty sewing machines. When you’re working with a heavier fabric or need to stitch through thicker materials like leather, you’ll need the power and durability that a heavy-duty sewing machine can provide. With the right machine, you can make beautiful pieces of furniture that will last for years.
Bag Making
Heavy-duty sewing machines are perfect for making bags. They can handle thicker fabrics and materials, which is perfect for tougher materials like leather. Making bags can be such as huge task, especially if you are using high-quality fabric (because why would you want a flimsy bag?). Doing it by hand can be very tedious and not to mention, painful.
It’s a good thing that most heavy-duty sewing machines already come with helpful features for bag making. This includes making buttonholes automatically to putting in zippers as well as offering a wide variety of stitches for decorative purposes.
Leather Crafting
Leather crafting is one of the most popular uses for heavy-duty sewing machines. When it comes to leather, you need a machine that can handle thicker fabrics and materials. Heavy-duty sewing machines are perfect for this, as they offer a wide variety of stitches for decorative purposes. They also come with helpful features, such as the ability to put in zippers and make buttonholes automatically. With a heavy-duty sewing machine, you can easily create beautiful pieces of leathercraft that will last a lifetime—that is if you do it right!
Best Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
Now that you know where you can use the best heavy duty sewing machine, you might want to get one right away. There are tons of sewing machines available in the market. You have to be very careful when choosing one as they can be pretty expensive. What’s more, you don’t want to end up picking the wrong machine that might not actually be too helpful for making your project.
We’ve listed some of the vest best heavy duty sewing machines that can be used by beginners, pros, and everyone in between. Handling a heavy-duty machine isn’t really something left to the pros. So if you are just starting out, don’t let this discourage you. You can use the best heavy duty sewing machine and actually make a high-quality item. Check out some of our heavy-duty sewing machine options below:
1. Best Heavy Duty Sewing Machine for Beginners:
Who says heavy-duty sewing machines are just for the pros. Even if you are just starting out in the world of sewing, you can also handle a heavy-duty unit. One model that you can look into is the Singer 4411. This machine already comes with built-in stitches, including basic stitches, decorative stitches, and also a built-in buttonhole.
To make things easier for users, the Singer 4411 has an adjustable needle position. You can adjust to either side or settle for the middle depending on your needs, from adding zippers to putting some cording or doing topstitching.
Since the Singer 4411 is a heavy-duty machine, you can expect it to have a strong motor and an equally durable metal frame, which can add stability. It can achieve a fast 1,100 stitches per minute. This workhorse can be used for sewing a wide range of materials. To accommodate thick or thin fabrics, it has an adjustable presser foot control.
This model also has a stainless steel bedplate. But the drop-in bobbin has a clear cover for your convenience. The small details on the Singer 4411 make it one of the best heavy duty sewing machines for beginners.
2. Best Heavy Duty Home Sewing Machine: Brother
If you are looking for both durability and flexibility in your sewing projects, the Brother ST371HD might just be the ideal machine for you. This Strong & Tough sewing machine can be used for a myriad of projects, from everyday mending to sewing thick fabrics and even delicate silks.
This Brother sewing machine has a metal needle plate, which allows for fabric feeding without snags. Plus, you’ll be able to use heavyweight needles. This machine offers built-in stitches for utility and also decoration—think buttonholes, stretch stitches, zipper insertion, and blind hems.
The exceptional Brother ST371HD offers different sewing feet for your needs, such as button sewing, nonstick, zigzag, blindstitch, and zipper. With the drop feed feature on this model, you’ll be able to do free-motion sewing without any trouble. Other features of the machine are a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin, an easy needle threader, and an automatic bobbin winding system. With the free arm, you can easily sew jeans, sleeves, cuffs, and more.
With a built-in handle, the Brother ST371HD is the best heavy duty sewing machine for the home. You can move it from one place to another or stow it away in storage in seconds. You can enjoy a speed of up to 800 stitches per minute with this sewing machine.
3. Best Heavy Duty Sewing Machine for Leather: Janome
If you want a heavy duty sewing machine that’ll get the job done, the Janome HD3000 is your best bet. It has none of the bells and whistles as most machines are available on the market but that can be a good thing as it lets you focus on the basics. And although the Janome HD3000 is geared toward hobbyists, this machine can actually handle heavy fabrics, even leather.
If you are just starting out, don’t worry as the Janome HD3000 has an instructional guide, which you can access from the machine’s top tray door. You’ll be able to learn the stitch and feet settings for use on a wide range of sewing tasks and projects. This unit has an aluminum body for stability (no vibrating here!). It may be solid but it’s actually not as heavy as the heavy-duty machines from the past.
Even if the Janome HD3000 is a simple machine, it still comes with built-in stitches. This includes the handy one-step buttonhole. On the front of the machine, you’ll be able to find controls for adjusting the widths and lengths of stitches. For easy storage, a hardcover is included with the machine.
4. Best Heavy Duty Sewing Machine for Quilting: Singer
With a large selection of stitches, the Singer 9960 proves to be a versatile heavy-duty machine for both general sewings as well as quilting. It offers easy-to-use features that can help you create projects with heavy fabrics. Some of the stitches built into the machine include decorative, stretch, and of course basic. There are also fonts that you can use, which are perfect for personalization projects.
Thanks to the automatic needle threader, you never have to be frustrated with starting your projects. It can also help lessen eye strain. Included with the machine are presser feet, such as all-purpose foot, rolled hem foot, overcasting foot, satin stitch foot, and more.
Choosing from hundreds of stitches on the Singer 9960 is easy as this machine comes with a display as well as one-touch buttons. If you need a larger working area, an extension table is included with the machine. Other features on the machine include a clear-covered bobbin system and twin needle settings.
5. Best Heavy Duty Handheld Sewing Machine: Moonshan
Not all projects can be done on a regular standing sewing machine. For such cases, you might want to check out the Moonshan handheld sewing machine. This unit is designed for closing bags (made from a wide range of materials from woven to leather).
The Moonshan isn’t really for a household setup. In a day, it can sew up to 5,000 bags or more. Its speed is at 2 seconds per bag or 2,600 stitches per minute. You can expect the stitches on your work to be uniform or even. This handheld sewing machine has 18,000 rpm and can sew materials as thick as 9mm or as thin as 0.2mm.
Weighing only 6.4lbs, the Moonshan machine is light and portable. It can be used for longer without experiencing fatigue. Once bags are closed up, you can either cut the thread manually or automatically with the built-in cutting slot on the machine.
6. Best Singer Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
Creating a wide array of projects is an easy feat with the Singer 4452, which boasts amazing features. It has more than 30 built-in stitches that include 6 basic plus 18 decorative ones. There are also stretch and fully-automatic buttonhole stitches included.
If you want an effortless start to sewing projects, the Singer 4452 boasts an automatic needle threader. With this built-in feature, you won’t have to get eye strains or frustrations with putting a thread through a needle that is attached to a sewing machine.
You can create projects quickly as the Singer 4452 is quite fast at 1,100 stitches per minute. Since it has a strong motor, this machine is able to handle fabrics that are thicker and heavier. As the best heavy duty sewing machine from Singer, the 4452 comes with accessories such as a non-stick foot (which is perfect for sewing vinyl and leather), auxiliary spool pin, bobbins, screwdriver, clearance plate, and seam ripper.
Monitoring your thread supply is quite simple, thanks to the top drop-in bobbin on the machine. This bobbin system also allows for easy insertion and removal of the thread on the Singer 4452.
7. Computerized Heavy Duty Sewing Machine: Brother
The Strong & Tough line from Brother is definitely reliable but if you are looking for a modern version, don’t worry, because there is one. The Brother ST150HDH has built-in decorative, utility, and standard stitches that can help you boost productivity as well as improve the quality of work. This heavy-duty sewing machine comes with a display and function buttons for ease of use.
Some of the features of the Brother ST150HDH that can help you get started on sewing faster and without any snags are the advanced needle threader and the drop-in top bobbin. For the former, with just a press of a lever your thread will go into the needle. As for the latter, the convenient drop-in top bobbin is jam resistant.
With the Brother ST150HDH are accessories that will complement the machine. You’ll be getting heavyweight sewing needles and several sewing feet. If you are a beginner, don’t worry as there is an instruction manual for the Brother sewing machine too.
8. Classic Heavy Duty Sewing Machine: Janome
The classic sewing machine usually has a black body. But the sewing machines of today have taken a different approach, more and more brands are coming out and sticking to the white sewing machine. If you are looking for the best heavy duty sewing machine with a classic look, check out the Janome HD1000.
Although this machine has that black and shiny classic look, there’s nothing vintage with what’s going on inside. This impressive machine has an aluminum interior and outer body, which makes it really hardy and durable. It also offers built-in stitches including a 4-step buttonhole. Threading the needle is a thing of the past as the Janome HD1000 has an automatic needle threader.
Other modern features of the machine are an adjustable stitch for length and width, a free arm, and drop feed (plus 3-piece feed dogs). To keep the Janome HD1000 safe, a hard cover is also available with the machine.
9. Best Sewing Machine for Heavy Duty Fabrics: JUKI
The high-performance JUKI TL-2010Q can be used for both sewing and quilting. It is portable and made of aluminum die-cast plus offers lock-stitch and single-needle features. Some of the more advanced offers of this machine include a speed control slider for precise sewing. To help you see better, it also has a built-in white LED light.
An auxiliary table may be attached to the JUKI TL-2010Q to give you a large working area of 23 inches. With an automatic thread button, you’ll have no trouble with buttons on your work. Using this function allows the machine to simultaneously trim the bobbin and needle threads. This Juki sewing machine also has a thread tension scale and maximum speed control. You can go at a steady pace of 200 stitches per minute to a quick 1,500 stitches per minute. (The former is a good starting point if you are a beginner, going too fast without practicing control can get messy).
The JUKI TL-2010Q can be used for a wide range of fabrics—even multiple layers of fabrics. The presser foot can also be adjusted depending on the fabric that you are working on. With needle control, you can easily switch to a down position for more pivoting on your work or even accurate free motion.
10. Modern Heavy Duty Sewing Machine: Singer
The best heavy duty sewing machine doesn’t need to be all dials and simple switches. You can find one that is actually modern. The Singer HD6700 has an exterior that resembles more of the newer sewing machine models. But inside, it is pretty much the same, if not better, a heavy-duty body that other Singer machines have.
For maximum durability, the Singer HD6700 has an all-metal frame. It offers a simple drop-top bobbin that can easily be seen as the cover is transparent. The rest of the bed is metal-plated. Stitch selection on this Singer machine is easy as it has touch buttons as well as an LCD window.
Other features of the Singer HD6700 include a programmable needle up/down, adjustable thread tension, and a needle threader to help jumpstart your project. There are over 400 stitch applications built into this sewing machine. It also comes with 10 presser feet to suit different projects. For your buttonings, the machine has 7 automatic 1-step buttonhole functions.
Advantages of Heavy Duty Sewing Machines
Sewing machines come in all shapes and sizes, but not all of them are created equal. If you’re looking for a sewing machine that can handle tough jobs, you need a heavy-duty sewing machine. Here are just a few of the advantages of using a heavy-duty sewing machine:
1. Heavy-duty sewing machines are built to last. They have powerful motors and metal parts that can withstand years of use. Don’t be fooled by sewing machine models that have a plastic exterior. Most of the time, these heavy-duty sewing machines have solid or full-metal interiors. The only reason it has a less-than solid exterior is to make sure that you can still carry it or move it around.
The sewing machines of the past are definitely heavy. It usually took 2 or more people to move. With a non-metal exterior, some sewing machines also allow for a more attractive design.
2. Heavy-duty sewing machines are more versatile than regular sewing machines. They can sew through thicker fabrics and multiple layers of fabric with ease. Aside from handling multiple fabrics, it can also handle the tougher fabrics—think leather or denim.
This is also why some quilters prefer heavy-duty sewing machines. Quilting requires a lot of fabrics or layers to make sure that they are effective in combating the cold weather. The best heavy-duty sewing machine can go through layers and layers of fabric.
If you have a regular machine, don’t force to feed it multiple fabrics. Or else, you’ll end up with a broken machine and a less-than-spectacular quilt project.
3. Heavy-duty sewing machines are perfect for quilting and other large projects. Their larger throat space allows you to work on projects that would be difficult or impossible to do on a regular sewing machine.
With a heavy-duty sewing machine, you are also able to use heavier needles. These needles can then handle stringer thread. This will then result in better and long-lasting projects.
4. Heavy-duty sewing machines can save you time. Their powerful motors sew faster than regular sewing machines, so you can finish your projects quicker. Most of the motors of regular sewing machines are definitely smaller. There’s a reason why heavy-duty sewing machines are heavier (and more expensive) after all.
However, with a heavy-duty sewing machine, you can also experience fewer vibrations while working. Think of the motor as a sort of anchor that makes your sewing machine and work table steady.
5. Heavy-duty sewing machines are a great investment. They may cost more than a regular sewing machine, but their durability and versatility make them worth the price.
If you’re looking for a high-quality sewing machine that can handle anything you throw at it, look no further than a heavy-duty sewing machine. With their many advantages, heavy-duty sewing machines are the perfect choice for serious sewers and quilters.
Choosing the Best Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
There are many advantages to using the best heavy duty sewing machine. Perhaps the most important advantage is that heavy-duty machines can handle tougher fabrics and materials with ease. They can also sew through multiple layers of fabric, making them perfect for projects that require a lot of strength and durability. Additionally, heavy-duty machines often come with more stitches and features than their lighter counterparts.
When shopping for a heavy-duty sewing machine, it is important to keep in mind the types of projects you plan to use it for. If you primarily sew lightweight fabrics, you may not need a machine with all of the bells and whistles that a heavier duty model offers. On the other hand, if you regularly sew thicker materials or multiple layers of fabric, it is worth investing in a sturdier machine. Be sure to also consider the weight of the machine itself – some models can be quite heavy, making them difficult to move around or transport.
Here are some other things to look for when choosing the best heavy duty sewing machine:
– A powerful motor: This is essential for sewing through thicker fabrics and multiple layers. Look for a machine with at least 1,000 watts of power. Be sure to consider the type of projects that you will do. If you are doing really tough materials, like leather, you might need to go with an even more powerful motor.
– A metal frame: This helps to ensure that the machine is durable and can handle heavy use. However, if you want a sewing machine you can move around or bring with you, you can always find a lighter version of a heavy-duty sewing machine.
– A large throat space: This allows you to sew larger projects without having to stop and reposition the fabric constantly. Look for a machine with at least six inches of throat space. Aside from the throat space, you also want to check if the machine has a free arm so you can work on leg jeans or cuffs.
– An automatic needle threader: This can be a huge time saver, especially if you do a lot of sewing. Sometimes, beginners already feel discouraged or defeated when they can’t even put a thread through the needle. So, manual threading is an obstacle you want to skip out on.
– A wide variety of stitches: This gives you more flexibility when it comes to your projects. Heavy-duty machines typically offer at least 20 different stitches. When it comes to the stitches, again, learn what projects you will be into. For example, if you will require a lot of buttonmaking then opt for a machine that can offer automatic buttonhole stitches.
– Other special features: If there are special things that you might need, this is usually the feature that can make or break a sewing machine sale. The best heavy duty sewing machine should be able to suit you. So if you need extra table space or a LED display, this can help differentiate one machine from another.
With so many things to consider, it can be difficult to know where to start when choosing a heavy-duty sewing machine. However, by keeping these things in mind, you can be sure to find a machine that best suits your needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best heavy duty sewing machine can be a tough decision. You want to find one that is powerful enough for your projects and durable enough to handle everyday use. With so many different things to consider, it’s best if you take the time to look at various models before making a purchase. We recommend doing some research on which features are most important for your needs and then finding a model with those qualities.
Remember that the best heavy duty sewing machine will depend on one crafter or sewer from another. If you are into quilting, then it might be better to go for a heavy-duty quilting machine. Whereas if you have a friend who needs a handheld sewing machine for closing up woven bags, then a regular standing machine will not be good for them.
Do take the time to read the best heavy duty sewing machine reviews if you can. It also helps to get recommendations from others and ask why they specifically chose those machines. If their reasons are the same as your purpose for sewing, then it might be worth it to check out that specific heavy duty sewing machine best.
Whether you are young or old, you can always get into crafting. One such craft you can focus on and share is weaving. Check out the best weaving loom available on the market. Weaving is very relaxing and is also a good bonding activity no matter what age. You can also create a wide range of items with a weaving loom, the products of which you can gift to others or proudly display in your home.