Heavy Duty sewing machine reviews…which model is best?

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BEST HIGH-END
Janome Memory Craft 6500P Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bonus Bundle
BEST MID-RANGE
EverSewn Sparrow QE Professional Sewing and Quilting Machine - 8Û Throat - 70...
BEST BUDGET OPTION
SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine With Included Accessory Kit, 110 Stitch...
Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine with Automatic...
Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine with 18 Built-in Stitches + Hard Case
Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine, Strong & Tough, 50 Built-in Stitches, LCD...
Janome Memory Craft 6500P Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bonus Bundle
EverSewn Sparrow QE Professional Sewing and Quilting Machine - 8Û Throat - 70...
SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine With Included Accessory Kit, 110 Stitch...
Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine with Automatic...
Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine with 18 Built-in Stitches + Hard Case
Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine, Strong & Tough, 50 Built-in Stitches, LCD...
BEST HIGH-END
Janome Memory Craft 6500P Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bonus Bundle
Janome Memory Craft 6500P Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bonus Bundle
BEST MID-RANGE
EverSewn Sparrow QE Professional Sewing and Quilting Machine - 8Û Throat - 70...
EverSewn Sparrow QE Professional Sewing and Quilting Machine - 8Û Throat - 70...
BEST BUDGET OPTION
SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine With Included Accessory Kit, 110 Stitch...
SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine With Included Accessory Kit, 110 Stitch...
Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine with Automatic...
Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine with Automatic...
Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine with 18 Built-in Stitches + Hard Case
Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine with 18 Built-in Stitches + Hard Case
Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine, Strong & Tough, 50 Built-in Stitches, LCD...
Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine, Strong & Tough, 50 Built-in Stitches, LCD...

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Certain tasks require certain tools, and sewing is no exception. If you’re looking to stitch fabrics such as canvas or multiple layers of thick material on the regular, then you’re going to need the best heavy-duty sewing machine in order to get the job done. 

This buyer’s guide, alongside my heavy-duty sewing machine reviews and top picks will help you make the right choice when it comes to both your requirements and your pocket.

Key differences between standard and heavy-duty sewing machines

A mistake often made, especially by sewing beginners, is to think all sewing machines are created equal. 

They are not.

Not only is this wrong, it can also result in your beloved device being deemed worthy only of the scrapheap should you push a standard appliance too far in terms of its capacity to sew through the thickest fabrics.

In short, if you’re going to be working with heavy materials on a regular basis, you’re going to need a heavy-duty sewing machine. It’s as simple as that.

Normal spec sewing machines cannot handle the extra workload heavier fabrics demand and will often wind up with a burnt out motor after one too many attempts to stitch that piece of upholstery or leather. That’s if it’s even powerful enough to drive the needle through in the first place!

Heavy-duty sewing machines, on the other hand, are built with this kind of work in mind. Parts are of a higher calibre and their motors have a greater output, which results not only in ultra-high sewing speeds and, more importantly, more “punch” every time the needle hits its target.

However, what you gain in power, you may lose in features and control. Many heavy-duty sewing machines are more like a workhorse than an Andalusian, if we were to use an equine analogy. Therefore, it’s important to know exactly what you’re going to be using your appliance for.

Why buy a heavy-duty sewing machine?

stitching upholstery

Not everyone will need a heavy-duty sewing machine, and the extra cost many of the better machines demand should be enough to make you question your decision. After all, do you really need a heavy-duty sewing machine? Or, is it just something that would be nice to have?

For many, it will be the latter. Obviously, standard sewing tools at the upper end of the market will cope admirably with the odd curtain or pair of jeans, so the need for a sewing machine designed specifically for denser fabrics is unnecessary. However, for some, sewing through strong fabrics is the bread and butter of what they do, and a regular machine just isn’t going to cut it. 

Be sure that you need to invest the extra in a heavy-duty sewing machine before you dive in. Ask questions about your sewing needs and look back over previous projects to see just how much use you’ll get from your new tool. 

If the answer is, not much, you might be better off concentrating on areas that really matter rather than simply opting for a sewing machine with more power.

Can beginners use a heavy-duty sewing machine?

stitching thick fabric

In a word…yes!

In fact, some of the best heavy-duty sewing machines are pretty stripped back and basic affairs, which means they are ridiculously easy to operate, although there is one caveat: speed!

Heavy-duty sewing machines, in general, work at a higher stitch per minute count than regular sewing appliances. This obviously means they are faster and, for the newbie, that can be a problem. 

Few will have a sliding speed control, as most are mechanical in their makeup rather than computerized, so you’ll have to rely on your ability to control the speed with your foot rather than limiting the machine via a handy switch.

Other than that, most of the models listed here will be fairly easy for a newcomer to sewing to pick up providing they spend a little time with the user manual and take things slowly.

Are there different types of heavy duty sewing machines?

garment workshop

Again, it’s a yes…and an important point, too.

There are a number of different uses in the world of heavy-duty sewing, and while some machines will be all-rounders, others will struggle when transitioning from task to task. So, for example, what might be considered the best sewing machine for denim may not necessarily turn out to be the best sewing machine for leather, and vice versa.

In this particular article, I’ll be less specific, however, and concentrate on machines that will serve those who are looking for a general purpose heavy-duty sewing machine best.

Differentiating between commercial and home-use heavy-duty sewing machines

One final thing to bear in mind when it comes to differences, is the distinction between home and commercial use. 

To be honest, this is a bit of a weird one…especially when you consider that many people now run sewing businesses from home! Some will use commercial grade tools at home, while other businesses with designated premises will use home machines to produce their wares. It’s somewhat of a gray area.

One thing that will likely jump out at you straight away is the difference in price. Commercial machines are generally far more expensive and look altogether more industrial. Take a look at the Reliable MSK-146B for a prime example of both.

Can I still work with lightweight fabric on a heavy-duty machine? 

All of the best heavy-duty sewing machines are built with sturdier fabrics in mind, but that doesn’t mean you can’t sew delicate materials on them, too. Some will cope admirably with very lightweight cloth providing you can adjust the tension settings to accommodate it.

That said, most pros will agree that you are better off with a really good standard sewing machine for lighter fabrics, keeping the heavyweight sewing machine for what it’s designed for. 

Are heavy-duty sewing machines harder to maintain?

Regardless of whether your sewing machine is heavy-duty or not, maintenance should be a priority from the moment you take your device out of the box. In this regard, most heavy-duty sewing machines are no more difficult to maintain than a standard appliance.

Key things to remember are:

  • Always keep your machine covered when not in use
  • Give the machine a wipe each time before putting it away
  • Get an air duster to help blow lint from hard to reach places
  • Oil the machine regularly (as per the user manual)
  • Avoid dull needles by changing frequently
  • Have your machine serviced annually

By following the above, any sewing machine will give you years of service.

Are heavy-duty sewing machines more expensive to run?

electricity meter

As heavy-duty sewing machines are generally more powerful in terms of performance, many people wonder if the running costs will reflect this extra oomph. It’s a good question, but it’s also impossible to answer in general terms.

Without knowing which two machines you’re asking to compare, giving you a definitive answer one way or the other would be inappropriate. What I can do, however, is give you the knowledge necessary to work it out for yourself. Thankfully, it’s not that difficult!

All you need to do is:

  • Find out the Wattage of the two machines you want to compare (look for a silver sticker on the back or base of your appliance, then find the W symbol with a number prefix – that will be your Wattage)
  • Work out how many hours per month you usually use your machine for
  • Multiply the hours used by the Wattage of each machine to give you a figure for each
  • Then divide each of the given figures by 1,000 to get your kWh number

Once you know your kWh, you can compare the two to see which one’s lowest. Simple!

As a side note, at the time of writing the average US electricity rate is 13.32 cents per kWh, while the UK’s average is 14.4 pence. If you really want to know just how much more (or less) a heavy-duty sewing machine costs to run, multiply your kWh by the average to give you a rough idea of your monthly running costs.

Want to be even more specific? Check out the latest electricity charges by state (US) below or by region if you live in the UK.

Do heavy-duty sewing machines need different needles?

This question gets asked quite a lot, and yet it has nothing really to do with the machine at all. 

Needle type will depend upon what you are sewing, not what you are sewing with.

By default, heavy-duty sewing machines will be more commonly loaded with heavier-duty needles but, as we mentioned in the section on sewing with light fabric above, that doesn’t mean they won’t work with more delicate needles.

So, no, heavy-duty sewing machines do not need different needles, but the heavier duty fabrics you intend to sew on them do. 

And remember, the higher the needle size number, the heavier the cloth it can cope with.

Heavy-duty sewing machine features to look out for

woman working on a large sewing project

Now we’ve got some of the frequently asked questions surrounding these devices, it’s time to explore some of the essentials and nice-to-haves when you’re looking for the best heavy-duty sewing machines for your needs.

There are lots of things to take into consideration before making your purchase, but the most important aspects revolve around three things: performance, features, and accessories. 

Let’s take a look at what I think everyone should look out for when buying either their first or next heavy-duty sewing machine:

Frame

If you’re going to put any appliance through its paces, it’s vital to know that the build quality can handle what you throw at it. With regard to sewing machines, that means the frame.

While the exterior shell is important too, the internal frame is the main thing to look out for. While it may seem improbable, some heavy-duty machines have lightweight frames, which should obviously be avoided wherever possible. 

Stitches per minute

AKA: Speed and power!

The machines stitch per minute is also a good indicator of power, which is naturally going to be important to any sewing machine for heavy fabrics. The higher the stitch per minute, the more punch your machine is likely to have.

It’s worth reiterating, though, that speed isn’t always everything. If you are inexperienced, or simply do not like ultra-fast sewing, be aware that some heavy-duty devices may be too much to handle.

Stability

With all that speed, stability is another key consideration. Trying to sew straight on a wobbly appliance is a recipe for disaster, and an utterly frustrating and miserable experience.

Your choice of frame will obviously count towards the stability front, but some clever engineers manage to use lightweight materials to great effect on the stability front, so heavy isn’t always the number one factor. 

It is, therefore, important to remember to keep both frame and stability in mind.

Specific presser feet for heavy-duty work

While accessories aren’t everything, when you’re shelling out a decent chunk of change on a heavy-duty machine it’s always nice if it comes with some compatible bits and pieces to get you started. Not least of which are presser feet specifically designed for the meatier tasks seamstresses and tailors have to face.

Key ones to look out for are Even Feeds, which will help when you’re stitching multiple layers of fabric, and Non-Sticks, which are great for working with materials such as vinyl or leather.

Presser foot lift / knee lift

When dealing with very thick fabrics, you’re going to want a decent amount of clearance between the plate and the presser foot. For this reason, many heavy-duty sewing machines will have a built in system that allows you to lift the presser feet higher than normal. Some will even have an extra high presser foot lift.

How this lift is operated will vary from appliance to appliance, but it’s usually either a hand-operated lever or a knee-lifter. As the name suggests, a knee-lifter is operated by, well, you’ve probably already guessed! 

While these can be awkward to use at first, the benefit of having both hands free soon becomes apparent…especially when dealing with a particularly cumbersome quilt sandwich!

Reliable feed dogs

Heavy fabrics can cause lower quality feed dogs problems, so it’s important to know that you’re buying a machine with a reliable feed system. If you can find one with adjustable feed dog tension, all the better. This will allow you to fine-tune your machine to cope with the desired thickness and type of fabric perfectly.

Should your machine not have such a feature, opting for the relevant speciality presser foot for the fabric you are working with can often get you out of trouble as well.

Stitch library

Lastly, a decent amount of built-in stitch patterns is always a nice thing to have. This isn’t a deal-breaker for many heavy-duty sewing machine shoppers, but it’s always nice to know they are there, even if you only use them once in a blue moon. 

How much do heavy-duty sewing machines cost?

This is a bit of a “how long is a piece of string?” question, but it does get asked a lot.

To be honest, it’s always best to work out your budget first, and then begin the hunt for the best heavy-duty sewing machine you can afford without breaking the bank. 

You can pick up a perfectly adequate machine for most home-use for under $200, or you can wander into the realm of $1,000+ devices if you have money to spare and are looking for lots of different features. 

You can pretty much spend what you want, so knowing your limits and sticking to them is vital.

Things to remember when using a heavy-duty sewing machine

If you’ve never used a heavy-duty sewing machine before, you may be a bit wary of the step up. There’s really nothing to fear, but you do need to be mindful of a few things:

Upping the power

As you’ve probably gathered by now, working with a heavy-duty sewing machine means you’re going to have to get used to a device with more power. Sometimes, a lot more power.

It’s not unusual to see these appliances mounted for that very reason. Screwing them down, whether it be to a sewing table or a specialist mount, helps to keep them as stable as they possibly can be…and even those who sew infrequently can draw something from that.

Making sure that your device is placed upon a level surface is a great place to start. Ensure that there’s nothing underneath (unless you’re using a muffling mat, of course) that will cause the machine to be off-balance and that the surface is dust-free, too. Dust build-up can cause those non-slip feet to slip over time, so a quick wipe down is worth the effort.

Needle selection is key

It should go without saying that needle selection is important regardless of the type of sewing you are doing, but when you are dealing with thicker materials it’s extra important.

Choosing the correct heavy-duty sewing needle that corresponds with the task at hand will not only ensure that you minimise breakages and allow your machine to do the job it’s designed for, it will also make your experience far more pleasurable and less frustrating, too.

Don’t be shy about changing them frequently, either. Most amatuer sewers are way too reluctant to switch up the business end, leaving the needle for far too long. 

Even heavy-duty sewing needles, despite their extra sturdiness, will lose their ability to punch through fabric effectively fairly quickly, so I’d recommend changing them after six hours use maximum, or whenever a project comes to an end (whichever comes first).

Don’t rush

With all those extra stitches per minute, it can be tempting to belt through a project at lightning speed just because you can. While this may be imperative to those who are churning out goods for sale, for the hobbyist, working in a breakneck fashion can result in the craft losing some of its charm.

There’s a lot to be said for slowing down…even if your machine is capable of going fast.

Are there any downsides to owning a heavy-duty sewing machine?

Providing you’ve been honest with yourself and you are using your heavy-duty sewing machine on a regular basis, there’s not many downsides to owning one.

However, should you wish to do lots of intricate or delicate work, or simply want more decorative stitches and fancy features, buying a heavy-duty sewing machine as your primary device could prove to be a disappointment.

Many sewing enthusiasts who shop for these appliances have made the decision based on past experience; they already know that the kind of projects they like demand the extra oomph afforded to them by a heavy-duty sewing machine. 

Some will even buy one of these as a second machine to have on hand when their regular sewing machine can’t handle a particular task. Having the choice gives them the benefit of both worlds: a powerful machine for stubborn tasks and a standard tool for projects that require a little finesse.

Should beginners buy a heavy-duty sewing machine?

If you’re completely new to sewing, it can be tempting to go for the most powerful thinking that it will serve you well as you grow into your hobby. While this is true to some extent, opting for a heavy-duty sewing machine from the get-go is likely to be a costly mistake rather than a good investment.

In my opinion, your money would be better spent on the best beginner sewing machine your budget will allow, rather than jumping straight into the powerhouses listed here.

Deciding which heavy-duty sewing machine to buy?

So, now you know that you definitely want one of these robust appliances, how do you go about selecting the best heavy-duty sewing machine that’s right for your requirements? After all, there are literally dozens of these things to choose from!

Well, you’re already doing the right thing by reading this page. Research is vitally important if you’re going to be spending the kind of money these devices demand.

Equally important is your own budget. Knowing what you can afford before you shop will ensure your purchase won’t get you into financial strife later on, which in turn means you won’t have buyer’s regret and grow to hate the sight of it!

Best heavy-duty sewing machine reviews

Now that we’ve looked at all the ins and outs of buying and owning one, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty: my best heavy-duty sewing machine reviews.

As ever, I’ve tried to offer a balanced list of devices here so that sewers of all skill sets and budgets can draw something from these reviews. I’ve also left out a few shockers that will remain nameless!

Right then, without further ado, here are (in my opinion) the best heavy-duty sewing machines on the market today:

EverSewn Sparrow QE

EverSewn Sparrow QE

First up on our list of reviews of the best heavy-duty sewing machine is the EverSewn Sparrow QE (Quilters Edition).

This is a smart looking machine that delivers performance just as handsomely, and it’s not short of a feature or two, either. Key things like the hands-free knee lift, automatic thread cutter and needle threader, drop-in bobbin, and interchangeable plates are all well-designed and simple to use (once you’ve gone through the manual, of course).

The EverSewn Sparrow QE also goes against the workhorse grain somewhat as it’s designed with quilters in mind. Seventy built-in stitch patterns come with the QE, so you get a fair bit more flexibility than you may have come to expect from heavy-duty sewing machines of the past. 

Although it doesn’t pack quite as powerful a punch as some of the other appliances on this list, this little beauty is still a beast. Sure, it’ll only rattle off 850 stitches per minute, but for the hobbyists amongst you, that’ll likely be plenty.

The Sparrow QE doesn’t suffer in terms of getting through those layers, either. Stitch quality remains fantastic even when you’re feeding through fairly decent chunks of material. While this isn’t the best choice if you’re looking for a denim or leather worker, for quilters the EverSewn Sparrow QE is a brilliant piece of kit.

While the price point doesn’t exactly place it in respectable range for a novice, the Sparrow QE is easy enough to use by anyone and the sliding speed control further enhances the device’s attractiveness in this regard as well. That said, this is really an advanced sewing machine, one that would certainly serve someone very well as an upgrade.

Unfortunately, the excellent Deluxe 8-piece Quilting Foot Kit doesn’t ship with the Sparrow QE and has to be bought separately, which is a little annoying given the price. However, once your frustration subsides, the kit is definitely worth considering as it opens up a world of possibilities for the advanced sewer.

LIKES
  • Stunning design
  • Easy to use
  • Perfect for quilters
  • Excellent stitch quality
  • Great for all skill levels
DISLIKES
  • The fantastic Deluxe 8-piece Quilting Foot Kit has to be bought separately
  • A little expensive for beginners

JUKI TL-2010Q

JUKI TL-2010Q

To the JUKI TL-2010Q…a powerful machine with a very simple aesthetic.

Similar to the Bernina 1008 below, the JUKI TL-2010Q (AKA Juki TL-2200QVP Mini in the United Kingdom) is not a machine for those looking for dozens of stitch patterns and endless features. It is, however, perfect for those who know exactly what tasks they’re going to tackle and want a machine that can handle those tasks with aplomb.

Essentially, the JUKI TL-2010Q is home machine for quilting enthusiasts that wouldn’t be out of place in any workshop either. This is a true workhorse, yet you’ll also get stitch quality that is hard to beat every time you sit down in front of this Japanese masterpiece. It simply doesn’t miss a beat.

At a whopping 25.4lbs, this isn’t going to be the sort of machine to accompany you to your classes, no matter how local they may be, but for home use there are few better. Be warned, though, this JUKI is FAST! At top speed it’ll churn out 1,500 stitches per minute, although it remains surprisingly comfortable to use at this lick if you have been sewing for a while.

Stability is excellent with the JUKI TL-2010Q; it simply doesn’t move, which I guess is unsurprising given the weight, but at 1,500 spm you’d be forgiven for expecting a little wiggle, yet the JUKI barely vibrates, let alone move.

While it doesn’t do much, what it does do it does exceptionally well. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not without features (in fact, it’s got plenty), but when you compare it to something like the Janome Memory Craft 6500P or the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.2 and look at their stitch libraries, it’s very basic indeed. 

In fact, if it got any more basic you wouldn’t be able to sew at all. One stitch…that’s your lot! No fancy-pants decorative patterns to be had here. So, if flexibility is something you’re after from your heavy-duty sewing machine, the JUKI TL-2010Q isn’t going to be the right tool for you. 

As mentioned above, this model is really made for quilting, and it handles that superbly well. The features and design all accommodate the craft wonderfully. It will, obviously, take on dressmaking and homeware tasks brilliantly, too, but when compared to other appliances on this list, it’s not a versatile sewing machine by any stretch of the imagination.

Features of the JUKI TL-2010Q include the important presser foot pressure adjustment and a handy needle up / down button that gives you greater control over free motion quilting tasks. Similarly, the sliding speed control that allows you to drop that 1,500 stitches per minute right down to 200 is a boon in terms of curbing the device’s raw power, thus allowing you to make precise movements without the machine running away with you.

Even if you decide not to make use of the sliding speed control and control the speed solely via the foot pedal, it’s ability to vary speed under pressure really works well once you get the hang of it. It might take a bit of getting used to, but persevere and you’ll reap the rewards. Thread trimming is also controlled by the pedal – a gentle flick of the heel and…snip!

The bobbin winder is exceptional, but the automatic needle threader leaves a lot to be desired. It’s almost as if JUKI were trying to be clever for the sake of it when they designed this part of the machine. It does work, but it’ll take a few reads of the manual, and possibly a few expletives too, before you get the hang of it.

Where the JUKI really comes into its own is when you’re free motioning. To say it’s smooth would be an understatement of dramatic proportions; this is hot chocolate smooth! While you may only have one stitch to use, the ease with which you can control the free motion aspect of this machine will have you getting creative anyway, and that can be extremely rewarding.

I’m also a fan of the knee lifter. The presser foot can be taken up 12mm if required, leaving you plenty of room whilst keeping your hands on the job. The throat also has plenty of space to play with, so large projects won’t cause anywhere near as much grief with the JUKI as they would with a smaller machine.

All in all, if you’re in the market for a heavy-duty sewing machine built for quilting, the JUKI TL-2010Q is a very solid choice. The only downside is that it’ll put a fair ol’ dent in your wallet or purse if you do decide it’s right for you.

LIKES
  • Brilliant motor with incredible torque
  • Very fast (1,500 SPM)
  • Broad speed control
  • Almost completely vibration-free
  • Plenty of room to work with
  • Heavy, solid, and durable
DISLIKES
  • Pricey
  • Auto needle threader is overly complicated

Bernina 1008S

Bernina 1008S

As mentioned in the review above, next up we have the irrepressible Bernina 1008S.

If this Bernina heavy-duty sewing machine looks a little dated, it’s because it is! The Bernina 1008S has been wowing advanced sewers and students for years, and nothing looks like stopping what is now the last fully mechanical machine in the Swiss sewing giant’s range.

So, what makes this powerhouse so good? Well, one thing people love about the Bernina 1008S is its durability. This is a machine that’s built to last. 

Made from the very best components under stringent quality control conditions, this is an appliance that will last a lifetime – and beyond – if it is well looked after. If they are serviced regularly and properly maintained by the user, there’s really not a lot that goes wrong with these incredibly well engineered machines. 

However, the build quality is nothing if the device doesn’t perform, but you needn’t worry about that either with the 1008. Although ridiculously basic, especially given the phenomenal price tag, the Bernina 1008 is absolutely brilliant at getting those basics spot on. It’s little wonder you’ll often see the Bernina 1008S in colleges, schools, and workshops.

Only 17 stitch patterns are built into this particular Bernina, but each and every one come out about as perfect as perfect can be. You’ll find yourself chuckling when you look them over! Not only that, at 1,000 stitches per minute, you’ll be able to rock through projects in no time, too, should speed be important to you.

You get a few presser feet included with the Bernina 1008, but lots of others are available to purchase separately. The ones that ship with the appliance are: reverse pattern foot #1, overlock foot #2, overlock foot #2A, buttonhole foot #3, zipper foot #4, and blindstitch foot #5.

Feed dogs can be dropped on the 1008 and both stitch length and width can be adjusted to suit your requirements, all done by turning a simple dial.

The simplicity will suit some and make others baulk. If you’re looking for a bells and whistles type affair, the Bernina 1008S isn’t for you. However, if you are looking for a very, very good heavy-duty sewing machine that is both durable and easy to use, you might have already found a new best friend.

LIKES
  • Very reliable
  • Simple, yet superb
  • Decent speed (1,000 SPM)
  • Stitch quality is fantastic
DISLIKES
  • Expensive

Brother ST150HDH

Brother ST150HDH

Need more microchips in your life than the Bernina offers? Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Brother ST150HDH.

A relatively new kid on the heavy-duty sewing machine block, the Brother ST150HDH is pleasing to look at and simple to use. Those looking for a bit more power without sacrificing portability might want to take a look at this one.

At a mere 10.14 lbs, it doesn’t seem possible that a sewing machine this light can be termed heavy duty, but the Brother ST150HDH performs surprisingly well. Granted, 850 stitches per minute isn’t exactly record beating in this division, but it’s not exactly a slouch, either.

Brother’s 7-point feed dog system does a decent job of getting your fabric under control and fed nicely underneath the business end of the machine smoothly and there’s a surprising amount of room to work with considering how compact this little machine is.

Sliding speed control allows you to slow down when needed, while the start / stop button brings a pedal-free option to those who loathe using their feet to sew. Stitch quality is decent at all speeds and the Brother ST150HDH remains nice and stable considering its weight.

Fifty built-in stitches ensure you’ll not be left wanting should creativity strike and the impressive accessory pack includes nine feet – zipper, spring action zigzag, walking, quarter inch piecing, blind stitch, button sewing, buttonhole, overcasting, and monogramming – and heavy-duty #14 needles along with some #11 and a couple of ballpoint #14s, too.

The LCD screen is clear, bright, and easy to navigate. Not only does it display the stitch selection and settings, it also tells you which foot would be best suited for your selection as well. 

While the Brother ST150HDH certainly won’t suit everyone reading these reviews, it does have a place in the market, namely for those who are looking for a lightweight tool that’s capable of handling relatively heavy-duty work without breaking the bank.

LIKES
  • Fantastic value for money
  • Surprisingly adept at handling thick fabric
  • Very simple to setup and operate
  • Decent accessory pack
  • Lightweight, yet stable
DISLIKES
  • Stitch library is a little limited

Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.2

Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.2

Feeling creative? Welcome to the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.2!

While Pfaff may not be the biggest name in terms of commercial output, when it comes to quality and innovation, advanced sewers know that Pfaff takes some beating. If you’re a quilter and you manage to get your hands on one of these, you’ll see what all the fuss is about…but you’ll have to pay a princely sum for the privilege.

Yep, unfortunately the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.2 is not cheap, but we all know the expression “You get what you pay for”, right?

This, friends, is a beast of a machine. Not only will it handle pretty much any kind of fabric you care to stitch, it’ll do so perfectly…and fast. For a machine of this quality, it’s also surprisingly light, weighing in at just under 20lbs. As one would expect, though, it is as stable as stable can be. 

Do not be deceived by the name, either. This is by no means a machine built solely for quilters; it’ll handle dressmaking equally well. It is precise, well-made, and has a couple of proprietary features and accessories that make it stand out from the crowd. It simply oozes quality.

The list of features included in this dream machine is also, to put it mildly, extensive. Just some of them include: 

254 stitch selections plus alphabet and numbers, 12 styles of 1 step buttonholes, automatic presser foot lift, automatic thread cutter, illuminated graphic display, external feed dog drop, automatic tie-off, needle up / down, speed ranges, mirror image, 37 needle positions, integrated needle threader, sensormatic buttonhole, personal stitch settings, program sequencing commands, tapering on all 9mm stitches, twin needle program, stitch restart, electronic thread tension, bobbin thread sensor, electronic knee lift…

I’ll leave it there, I’m sure you get the idea!

As well as all those features, the accessories that ship with the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.2 will make you feel like it’s Christmas morning: 

Standard presser foot 0A, blindhem foot 3 with IDT™, zipper foot 4 with IDT™, fancy stitch foot 1A with IDT™, fancy stitch foot 2A, sensormatic free-motion / embroidery foot 6A, sensormatic buttonhole foot 5A, manual buttonhole foot 5M, ¼” quilting foot, knee lifter, set of needles, bobbins (4), lint brush, edge guide, seam ripper, spool cap (S, M, L), button sewing tool, thread net, screwdriver, bulb remover, and an excellent hard cover.

Naturally, you also get the excellent Pfaff IDT™ System, so you know your fabric is going to be fed under the needle evenly and smoothly. It also ensures that your blocks will match when piecing together and topstitching is a breeze, too. Even knitted fabrics are easy to stitch with this system in place…no more twisted or stretched hems!

This machine is one of the very few out there that can handle both heavy-duty sewing tasks and delicate fabrics like silk equally well, largely thanks to the IDT™ System. It is so effortless to get professional results! The interface is incredibly user-friendly and simple to navigate, even technophobes will be sold on this one.

However, this is by no means an endorsement for the novice to rush out and buy one. No, this is a serious machine for serious sewers.

If, however, you fall into that category, you’ll fall in love with the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.2.

LIKES
  • Precise and accurate, regardless of the task
  • Ridiculously feature-rich
  • Amazing accessory bundle
  • Includes the brilliant Pfaff IDT™ System
  • Easy to achieve pro results
DISLIKES
  • For the experienced sewer only
  • Very, very costly!

Brother PQ1500SL

Brother PQ1500SL

Although following the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.2 is a pretty thankless task, the Brother PQ1500SL is well-equipped for the job.

This appliance from Brother is similar to the JUKI TL-2010Q in that it’s another high speed, single stitch sewing machine made for those who want serious performance built into a sturdy frame. 

Just like the JUKI, the Brother PQ1500SL will rack up speeds that produce an impressive 1,500 stitches per minute. Despite this lightning quick action, stitch quality is admirably maintained, leaving you with delightfully balanced work that would leave anyone proud. It really does stitch extraordinarily well.

The PQ1500SL is also competing with the JUKI in terms of weight, too…it’s a monster. Weighing in at 24.2lb (which is actually over a pound lighter than its competitor), the Brother is not really a machine for those who need to frequently move their machine around a lot. Put it down and leave it there is a far better option for both models!

One key area where the Brother PQ1500SL differs from the JUKI is its lack of speed control. Of course, speed can be varied by way of the pedal and the amount of pressure placed upon it by your foot, but for many this will be a feature they’ll miss. Happily, however, for those who are used to having full control via a pedal, the PQ1500SL is very responsive and relatively easy to regulate.

The key issue people face when they buy the Brother PQ1500SL is that it seems to be designed by somebody who is left-handed. This is undoubtedly a bonus if you’re left-handed yourself, but for right-handers like me…it isn’t. Considering left-handed people number only around 10% of the population, this can only be described as a design flaw.

Bobbin placement is further hampered if you have medium sized hands or above. To say it’s fiddly would be an understatement and it kind of detracts from the pleasurable experience you get from the machine while it’s actually in motion. If this was your primary machine and you had to repeatedly deal with this awkwardness I could see it getting old pretty quick!

The automatic thread cutter is a feature that I love to see present on any sewing machine, but the one on the PQ1500SL can be infuriating at times. On more than one occasion the thread cut so short it caused it to jump right out of the needle, which leaves you with no option but to rethread. This can be mitigated by pulling it out a little before you resume stitching, but you really shouldn’t have to touch it at all; it’s annoying.

Another automated feature that isn’t as straightforward as you’d hope for when laying out this sort of money is the needle threader. Why is this time saving feature so often the cause of frustration? The needle threader on the Brother PQ1500SL is particularly hard work, and if you get it to work 25% of the time you’ll be doing well. 

The Brother PQ1500SL is, in my opinion, a machine solely for those who have been sewing for an age and know every aspect of the craft inside out. This isn’t even an appliance I’d rush to recommend to an intermediate sewer, let alone some who is just starting out on their sewing journey.

This shouldn’t come as a surprise, as we are, for the most part, talking about advanced machines in this set of heavy-duty sewing machine reviews. However, it’s basic stuff that makes it difficult to use, which is disappointing. Things like the auto threader and cutter, and the simplest of tasks, putting in a bobbin, are made hard work and can quickly become tiresome.

With all those gripes out of the way, I’d still say that this is a very good machine indeed. The problem the Brother PQ1500SL has is that it isn’t quite as good as some of its competitors in and around the same price bracket.

And, let’s face it, if you’re willing to lay out for the PQ1500SL, you’ll likely be willing to save up a little extra in order to get a machine you will love rather than simply put up with.

LIKES
  • Well priced
  • Very quick (1,500 SPM)
  • Stitch quality is excellent
DISLIKES
  • Awkward and cumbersome to use
  • Too frustrating for newbies
  • Lots of features don’t perform as one would expect
  • Better machines available, for not too much more money

Janome Memory Craft 6500P

Janome Memory Craft 6500P

It’s time for another dream machine that falls into a similar camp to the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.2 I reviewed above…get ready to swoon! Perhaps surprisingly, we haven’t covered a heavy-duty sewing machine from Janome yet. Let’s put that right with the popular, yet pretty expensive, Janome MC6500P.

The Janome MC6500P is another true all-rounder that is capable in pretty much every area of the sewing craft. Dressmaking, soft furnishings, quilting…this model from the Japanese giant can cope with them all and produce stunning results with minimal effort. So, minimal, in fact, I’d be happy to recommend this device to a beginner if the price wasn’t so out there.

Yep, the Janome MC6500P is incredibly easy to use. I’m sure that if you put someone who’d been sewing for years on an old mechanical machine in front of this and left them with for an hour they’d tell you that using the MC6500P is cheating! Owning one of these machines would dramatically reduce your learning curve if you were just starting out.

But, as you’re reading this post, I’m guessing you’re not. So, what does the Janome MC6500P offer the experienced sewer? Erm, pretty everything. With a little extra added. You know, just in case you need it.

As one would expect, stitch speed is good at 1,000 spm and this can also be controlled thanks to the built in sliding speed control should it be required. Alongside the speed comes a precision that is off the charts, it really does hit the mark each and every time. No skips, no misses. Just lovely even stitches. Nice!

The Janome MC6500P is rich with features to match the performance. The usual suspects are here, along with a few less common pieces of wizardry that will make your sewing easier and more enjoyable. The memory function will be particularly useful for those who want to save certain combinations of stitch patterns for later use, something that is especially handy for the alphabet stitch patterns.

There’s also individual and combination stitch editing and last stitch recall available with the MC6500P and the extra high presser foot lift gives you ample room to maneuver when necessary. The auto threader and thread cutter are also easy to use and do the job they’re designed to do with minimal fuss and effort.

Perhaps surprisingly for a machine of this grade the Janome Memory Craft 6500P on has a five-piece feed dog system rather than a seven, but it works well so no complaints. The dogs can also be adjusted to accommodate various fabrics.

In terms of accessories, the Janome ships with an ample array. In the box you’ll find 11 speciality presser feet – 1/4 inch seam, 3-way cording, blind hem, open toe darning low shank, open toe with quilting guide, open toe satin stitch, overedge, rolled hem, satin stitch, sliding buttonhole, and a zig-zag foot – as well as a wealth of other bits and bobs, including a very handy knee lifter.

Although you’ll find more on the Pfaff, the Janome MC6500P is no slouch in terms of built-in stitches – there’s a whopping 135 built-in patterns to choose from, including alphabetical options and seven one-step buttonholes. 

This is a very, very good heavy-duty sewing machine that is easy to operate and fun to use. If it’s within your budget – and I appreciate that’s probably not going to be many of us – you could do a lot worse than opt for the brilliant Janome MC6500P, you will adore it.

LIKES
  • Capable of handling a very broad range of tasks
  • Precise and easy to control
  • Quick enough (1,000 SPM)
  • Lots of room to work with larger projects
  • Balanced, even stitches…every time
  • Good range of accessories
DISLIKES
  • The price

Brother ST371HD

Brother ST371HD

Another entry from Brother’s Strong and Tough range…this time it’s the turn of the ST371HD. Let’s see if it lives up to the range’s reputation.

The Brother ST371HD is firmly in the budget camp, so when jumping from reviewing a top-end machine like the Janome Memory Craft 6500P above it’s important to bear in mind the fact that this machine will only be capable of so much.

That said, the first thing you notice when you unbox the Brother ST371HD is the quality of the outer shell; it’s really not that great. Very plasticky, cheap feel, with some parts feeling less than durable from the get-go.

Internally, things improve with a relatively solid metal frame, but more plastic parts prone to failure are to be found. Tension issues seem to be prevalent, too. Hmmm…

At the price, all of this can be forgiven. What, on the other hand, is unforgivable is the fact that the Brother ST371HD really does struggle with heavy-duty sewing tasks, slowing down and growling away. So, not only is the machine made cheaply (which, again, is understandable when the price itself is cheap), it also doesn’t do the job it’s touted to do.

On the plus side, set up is pretty straightforward, but if you’re anything more than an infrequent sewer, I’d save up and buy something a little better or opt for the SINGER 4432 (reviewed below) if you’re not.

LIKES
  • Setup is straightforward
  • Affordable
DISLIKES
  • Despite the name, it’s not great with thick fabric
  • Cheaply made
  • Noisy
  • Tension is temperamental

Janome HD3000

Janome HD3000

We’re getting towards the end of our best heavy-duty sewing machines reviews, but we couldn’t leave without taking a look at the Janome HD3000, another popular model from the Japanese giant.

The Janome HD3000 falls into that in between price point that’s neither budget nor luxe; it’s kind of out of reach for some, yet not jazzy enough for others, leaving it wallowing in a heavy-duty sewing machine neverland. That doesn’t, however, mean much in terms of whether or not this is a good purchase, so let’s try to put that right.

Let’s start with ease of use. Oddly, the HD3000 falls into the middle in this regard, too. While it’s by no means difficult to get to grips with, it’s not exactly the most straightforward machine you’ll sit in front of, which is all the more weird as it’s such as basic device (albeit one at the higher end of the pricing range for this type of appliance). 

Would I recommend it to a beginner? Probably not. But, as I’ve already said, these are supposed to be more advanced machines, so no points off for the HD3000 yet…even though Janome are targeting starters with this machine!

The HD3000 ships with 18 built-in stitches, which emphasizes Janome’s concentration on trying to get this machine to do a few things exceptionally well. Accessories include five extra feet – zig-zag, blind hem, rolled hem, overedge, automatic buttonhole – and the machine itself has the all-important extra high presser foot lift as well as adjustable presser foot pressure.

Performance-wise, the HD3000 does a grand job with pretty much everything you throw at it. It would, of course, struggle with heavy leather, but then again, most do unless they are specifically built for the task. Stitch speed is only 860 spm, so it does surprisingly well, considering.

The quality of the stitches are good as well, and thanks to the hefty 18+lbs provided by the frame the HD3000 barely vibrates, even while going through vinyl and denim. Stitches appear balanced and clean, although not quite as perfect as some of the better machines listed here. Oh, and thumbs up for the relative quietness, too.

Feed dogs work well although, like the MC6500P, I would have thought a seven-piece system would have been better suited than a five, especially given the 6.5mm stitch width maximum. No complaints on the evenness of the feed, though, and the dogs can be lowered easily.

Downsides of the HD3000? There are a couple, and most are issues you’d expect to see on a less expensive machine. Things like the stiffness of the controls and clunkiness of operation in some areas made it feel more like a sub $200 machine than one that’s edging towards $500 (price correct at the time of writing). Positioning of some of the controls are awkward, too.

The bobbin winder is a little hit and miss as well. While you can mess around and get it set just so, which does produce a nice evenly wound bobbin, it seems to require constant adjustment. This is not a set and forget operation. Equally, the thread cutter could be better as well.

Perhaps the biggest concern, however, is the build quality. Yes, this is a very solid machine that is predominantly metal, but there have been a fair number of complaints about part failures, which is far from ideal. If you do opt for this one, I’d seriously consider taking out an extended warranty, just in case.

In short, the Janome HD3000 is a decent piece of kit, but it isn’t the best, in my opinion. There are a few niggles, the quality isn’t what you’d expect from Janome, and the appliance is relatively basic considering what you have to pay for it. 

Sure, you’d expect to pay a little more for a heavy-duty sewer, but you’d also expect it to be built to last. Unfortunately, the HD3000 isn’t. Far too many have had problems with the product’s build quality for me to be able to recommend anyone buying it, which is a pity as it is an otherwise great heavy-duty sewing machine.

LIKES
  • Solid and sturdy
  • Makes light work of heavy materials
  • Feed system is superb
  • Stitch quality is good
DISLIKES
  • Stitch library is poor
  • Setup can be awkward
  • Has a clunky feel to it when in use

SINGER Heavy Duty 4432

SINGER 4432

Last up is another budget option, this time from SINGER in the form of their highly favored Heavy Duty 4432.

Resplendent in battleship gray, the SINGER Heavy Duty 4432 certainly looks the part, and the price will be attractive to many as well…you get quite a lot of machine for your money with the 4432.

For starters, this appliance will hum along at an incredible 1,100 stitches per minute thanks to the motor SINGER has fitted into this particular model. Touted as being 60% stronger than their standard sewing machine motors, the one housed inside the 4432 is a beast when you consider the price point.

Most of the other features you’d need from a heavy-duty sewing machine are present, too. The presser foot pressure can be adjusted simply, which helps feed through a variety of different fabric thicknesses, and the height of the presser foot can be lifted to an extra high position as well.

Included in the box are four presser feet – zipper, all-purpose, buttonhole, and button sewing – and the usual accessories, including a seam ripper / lint brush, quilting guide, spare bobbins, needles, spool pin and felt, screwdriver, and a soft-sided dust cover. Pretty impressive range when, again, you consider the price tag.

All of this is worthless, though, if the thing can’t sew, so how does it perform? Remarkably well, actually. It’s no JUKI, but then again, you’re not paying JUKI money, either. The SINGER Heavy Duty 4432 copes really well with most fabrics, although I would class this as more of light heavy-duty machine than an out and out monster that will zip through anything and everything.

The 4432 will balk at very thick canvas, leather, vinyl, or multiple layers of denim, but then you’d be expecting too much of a budget machine such as this if you were to try. Yes, this is marketed as a heavy-duty sewing machine, which it is, but it’s only really a home-use affair. It is not up to industrial style work, nor should it be. 

Used correctly, however, the 4432 will produce good quality stitches and knock them out speedily. It’s also very easy to set up and use.

So, if you’re looking for a tank, the SINGER Heavy Duty 4432 will disappoint; it’s actually pretty flimsy in places. Lifespan for this appliance could easily vary from user to user but, for the money, this is a decent purchase that will handle most sewing chores around the home.

Recommended.

LIKES
  • Great value for money
  • Impressive speed (1,100 SPM)
  • Very good motor
DISLIKES
  • Durability may be questionable

So, which models came out on top?

This is, as ever, an extremely tough call.

Overall, my absolute favorite would have to be Janome Memory Craft 6500P, but I appreciate that this is way beyond the reach of most. Even for pros, this is a serious investment. 

Janome Memory Craft 6500P
BEST HIGH-END
EverSewn Sparrow QE
BEST MID-RANGE
SINGER 4432
BEST BUDGET

The problem is that all of the machines I’d happily recommend, with the exception of the SINGER 4432, are pricey. I love the solidness of the JUKI TL-2010Q (otherwise known as Juki TL-2200QVP Mini in the United Kingdom) and the smoothness of the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.2, both of which will make the bank manager wince. 

The EverSewn Sparrow QE is a great machine at a slightly lower price, so that’s getting my mid-range vote.

Best budget heavy-duty sewing machine is simple: it’s the aforementioned SINGER 4432, no question. No, it’s not built to last, but for the price it’s unbeatable.

So, to wrap up…

the best heavy duty sewing machine

BEST HIGH-END
Janome Memory Craft 6500P Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bonus Bundle
BEST MID-RANGE
EverSewn Sparrow QE Professional Sewing and Quilting Machine - 8Û Throat - 70...
BEST BUDGET OPTION
SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine With Included Accessory Kit, 110 Stitch...
Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine with Automatic...
Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine with 18 Built-in Stitches + Hard Case
Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine, Strong & Tough, 50 Built-in Stitches, LCD...
Janome Memory Craft 6500P Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bonus Bundle
EverSewn Sparrow QE Professional Sewing and Quilting Machine - 8Û Throat - 70...
SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine With Included Accessory Kit, 110 Stitch...
Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine with Automatic...
Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine with 18 Built-in Stitches + Hard Case
Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine, Strong & Tough, 50 Built-in Stitches, LCD...
BEST HIGH-END
Janome Memory Craft 6500P Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bonus Bundle
Janome Memory Craft 6500P Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bonus Bundle
BEST MID-RANGE
EverSewn Sparrow QE Professional Sewing and Quilting Machine - 8Û Throat - 70...
EverSewn Sparrow QE Professional Sewing and Quilting Machine - 8Û Throat - 70...
BEST BUDGET OPTION
SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine With Included Accessory Kit, 110 Stitch...
SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine With Included Accessory Kit, 110 Stitch...
Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine with Automatic...
Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle, Lockstitch, Portable Sewing Machine with Automatic...
Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine with 18 Built-in Stitches + Hard Case
Janome HD3000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine with 18 Built-in Stitches + Hard Case
Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine, Strong & Tough, 50 Built-in Stitches, LCD...
Brother ST150HDH Sewing Machine, Strong & Tough, 50 Built-in Stitches, LCD...

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