Posted: 10/21/2012 9:41:16 AM EDT
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I'm looking for a sewing machine that is capable of sewing heavy canvas and swede.....codora and heavy nylon.
My price range is around $400 +/-. I'm looking at a few Singer models... and have thought about a Yamata...but they are a bit higher in price that I'm looking to spend. Does anyone have any suggestions? |
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I went with a Sailrite clone, I had to do a little tuning and playing with it but I do like it. Its the Feiyue FS-388Z walking foot zigzag. I went with it because I don't have issues working on things to make it better, and the prices was right. Every mod/upgrade that works with the Sailrite works on it. I was looking HARD for a good used commercial like the Yamata or Juki, but couldn't find one at a decent price. So I went with the FS-388Z, it offers a 2 inch longer arm giving you a little bigger working area. Lists for $399 but I got it on sale with free deliverly. The Sailrite's are wicked machines, but for half the price and a little self instructing I got one that works for me.
Your going to find basically three classes of machines that will do what you want. 1) Full on commercial machines, keep an eye for good used Juki's ect. 2) a Sailrite, great machines and excellent support, but a little pricey. 3) Sailrite style clones, can be tempermental until adjusted/modded, but excellent values for the basic user looking to do repairs and basic builds. Obviously you know which way I went, but IF I could have found a decent used Juki or Yamata I could of afforded, I would have went that route. |
| I bought a Singer 8770 Curvy and it handles heavier material ok. I've sewn nylon bag straps, tripled folded, with it, I just have to sew slowly and use a heavy needle. |