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Looking for a good quality heavy-duty sewing machine? Then, choose one by Janome. Their models tend to be of good quality. And, if you are here, you probably need a machine to sew leather and the HD3000 is exactly what you need. As you probably know, there are hundreds of models available in the current market and it might be a bit confusing to choose the right one for your needs. But, if you are willing to spend a large amount of money on a machine that will be with you for at least 25 years, this is the answer: Janome HD3000.
The Look
When making such a purchase, you should first think about the design of the unit. Have you already thought about all these aspects? If not, we would like to tell you that this is a heavy machine that weighs 18.7 lbs. It measures 16 x 11.3 x 7.2 inches, but the working area is 6.5 inches wide and 4.6 inches high. Also, it is very important to know that it comes with a sturdy aluminum body, so it is pretty durable in comparison to others.
Key Features
The HD3000 by Janome is a very powerful sewing machine for leather. Like many other similar models, it uses advanced technology and comes equipped with a lot of impressive features. Of these, we mention its powerful 1.0 amp motor that runs with a maximum speed of up to 860 stitches per minute. Furthermore, it comes with 18 different stitches including a one-step buttonhole that helps you complete even the most complicated projects without overwhelming you with too many choices. As compared to many other models available for sale, this one is powerful enough to sew through several layers of fabrics, including leather, canvas and denim. Besides that, it has an adjustable presser foot pressure that allows you to make several settings according to the material’s weight. When it comes to sewing cuffs, collars or pants legs, the built-in free arm will ease your work. Also, if you are thinking about stippling, darning or attaching buttons, don’t worry! It comes with a drop feed.
Generally speaking, a heavy-duty sewing machine should be specifically designed for professional sewers. However, you will remark that it is not our case. Due to the built-in needle threader and thread tension adjuster, the HD3000 is so easy to use that it can be used even by beginners and intermediates.
The Positives
- Heavy duty aluminum body – Ideal for complex projects that involve leather, denim, canvas or other thicker fabrics.
- Quiet operation – Although it comes with a powerful motor, it is not loud. In fact, it has a good reputation for running smoothly.
- Easy maintenance – You may think that you will be forced to oil the machine often, but the truth is that it doesn’t require any oiling. You just have clean the bobbin with a soft dry cloth after each use.
- It works with a wide variety of fabrics – You already know that it can handle leather, denim or canvas, but it is also important to know that it also works with lightweight and medium weight materials, including the most sensitive ones like silk, lace, chiffon, Lycra, nylon or cotton.
The Negatives
- Limited stitch options – As compared to other heavy-duty models, it only has 18 built-in stitches and a single one-step buttonhole
- No LCD display – Although it doesn’t display detailed information on an LCD screen, it still is a very easy to navigate machine.
Final Words
If you are interested in investing in a heavy-duty sewing machine, take a quick look at this model. At first glance, the Janome HD3000 is a good-looking model that comes at a high price. The truth is, that if you need a machine that works with leather, denim, and other thicker fabrics without running their quality, this is exactly what you need.
2. TOYOTA Super Jeans J34
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Whether you are a professional sewer or not, take a look at this super machine. Specifically designed for sewing leather, denim and other heavy fabrics, the Super Jeans J34 by TOYOTA tends to be one of the best models ranked in this price range. It comes equipped with multiple features and functions, but also with a nice bundle of accessories. There are many things to say about this model, but the most important aspect to know is the fact that it is capable of sewing through 12 layers of soft denim. Do you realize this? And this is not all, because it can also sew through 10 layers of hard denim. More than that, there are 34 built-in stitches to choose from, including decorative, utility, stretch, applique, blind hem and overlock stitches. What we really like about this model is the fact that it allows you to adjust between layers.
As strange as it sounds, the machine can be adjusted between 3,6 or 12 layers. Besides that, there is a drop feed, six presser feet and a 4-step buttonhole stitch that works pretty good. The presser foot pressure can be easily adjusted with the turn of the dial. The machine is extremely easy to use, especially due to its automatic needle threader. Thanks to this feature, you won’t be forced anymore to thread the needle manually through that small eye. Overall, the Super Jeans J34 is an amazing machine that due to its solid performance it has earned a good place on our list.
The Positives
- Powerful machine – It is capable of sewing through 12 layers of denim.
- A wide variety of stitches – There are 34 built-in stitches to choose from its convenient stitch panel.
- Ease of use – The automatic needle threader, adjustable presser foot pressure and free arm make sewing a breeze
- Gliding foot – For leather and other thick fabrics, you can use its gliding foot
The Negatives
- Slow speed – As compared to other heavy-duty models, it has a slower speed. Its maximum speed is up to 750 rpm
- A bit noisy – Sometimes, it becomes a bit too noisy
Final Words
As you have probably observed, there are so many types of machines on the market, that finding one that meets your requirements could be a backbreaking task. To ease your task, we recommend going with the Super Jeans J34 by TOYOTA. It may be a bit expensive, but for a model that is specially designed to sew through leather and denim, the price is justifiable.
SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960
3. SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960
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We spent more than 24 hours testing and reviewing sewing machines on different fabrics including leather and denim and our favorite model is the Quantum Stylist 9960 by SINGER. It is a popular machine that comes equipped with so many accessories and functions that it’s quite impossible not to accomplish your sewing projects. Note that it comes with 600 built-in stitches. We are not talking about 18, 34 or 43 stitches. We are talking about 600 stitches, including 13 built-in one-step buttonholes and 5 alphanumeric fonts. That’s amazing and hard to find on another machine!
Furthermore, it comes with 2 unique features such as Mirror imaging and Stitch elongation that will expand your creative possibilities. More than that, if you are willing to complete faster your task, keep in minds that it has a maximum sewing speed of 850 spm. As compared to its above competitors, for easy navigation, it is equipped with an LCD display and Digital Information Advisor. This digital machine is very easy to use. With a simple touch of the button, you can start sewing. This is not a portable machine and you must know it before making the purchase. It is a heavy model that weighs 18.2 lbs. and measures 17.2 x 8.2 x 12 inches. It is not as bulky as other tailoring machines, but you cannot take it with you to your sewing classes. Overall, it is a good model that will surely allow you to sew through leather, canvas or denim.
The Positives
- Excellent stitch option – It comes equipped with 600 built-in stitches
- Easy to navigate – It comes with an LCD display and Digital Information Advisor
- Bright sewing area – Due to its 2 StayBright LED lights, you will be able to work at night
- Great value for money
The Negatives
- No quilting – Not enough space for quilting.
- Not portable – Heavy machine that cannot be moved with ease.
Final Words
With 600 built-in stitches, an LCD display and a 25-year warranty, we are proud to include this model on our list. The Quantum Stylist 9960 by SINGER is easy to use and handle sewing machine that helps you finish all your projects that involve leather, denim, and other thicker fabrics.
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Have you ever thought about changing your old sewing machine with a more advanced model? If so, take a look at this one. Don’t worry as it comes with a non-stick foot for tricky fabrics such as leather, canvas, and vinyl. Also, it comes with 32 built-in stitches. Of these, we mention 6 basic stitches, 18 decorative stitches, 7 stretch stitches and 1 fully automatic one-step buttonhole. Of all our 5 models, this one is the most powerful machine with the highest sewing speed. At 1100 stitches per minute, all of your projects can be sewn faster and much easier.
In terms of design, this is a good-looking machine with strong metal construction and stainless steel bed-plate. It measures 15.5 6.25 x 12 inches and weighs 14.6 lbs. It is lightweight and portable, which is a big advantage because you can carry it with you at your sewing classes. The machine has adjustable stitch width and length. You just have to turn the dial and the machine’s width and length can be adjusted according to your preferences. With an adjustable presser foot pressure, this tool can be easily adjusted in order to sew lightweight to medium and heavy fabrics. For easy access to difficult-to-reach areas such as cuffs, collars or pant hems, there is a free arm feature. And if you have any difficulties in threading the needle, there is an automatic needle threader. Based on the results of our reviews, the SINGER 4452 is a great value for money and a good option to consider when making a purchase.
The Positives
- Heavy-duty metal frame – It is durable and built to last for many years to come
- 32 built-in stitches – A wide variety of built-in stitches to choose from
- Powerful motor – It is equipped with a powerful motor that delivers a maximum sewing speed of 1,100 stitches-per-minute
- Three needle positions – Basically, each position allows you to change the specific needles for for individual projects
The Negatives
- No LCD screen or digital fetaures
Final Words
If you are on the hunt for a heavy-duty sewing machine for leather, this could be a great option. It is neither too cheaper nor like its above competitors that are ranged at high prices. It is just an affordable yet quality tailoring machine that comes with a powerful motor. At a maximum sewing speed of 1100 stitches-per-minute, you will be able to sew thick fabrics including leather, canvas, denim and more pretty nicely.
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Last but not least, we are proud to include on our list an average mechanical sewing machine that comes at a better price than its competitors. The Brother ST371HD is a tough tailoring machine that comes with a plethora of interesting features. It is equipped with 37 built-in stitches, 6 quick-change feet and 16 needles for heavyweight fabrics. Also, it has a non-stick foot that can be used for heavyweight materials like leather, denim or vinyl. Besides that, the machine features an LCD display with LED light that will illuminate the sewing area so you can sew at night. Also on the machine’s front panel, you will notice an easy stitch selector that allows you to select your favorite stitch with a simple turn of the dial. What we really like about the Brother models is the fact that most of them, including this one, have a jam-resistant quick-set drop-in top bobbin that will hold the bobbin in place.
It may be a tough machine, but it is a lightweight model. It measures 12.21 x 16.10 x 7.87 inches and weighs 14.3 lbs. Due to its lightweight feature, the machine can be easily carried to the sewing classes. In addition to all its features and function, it also comes with a host of useful accessories. Of these, we mention 4 bobbins, 6 feet, 3-piece needle set, tween needle, 2 spool caps, dust cover, and screwdriver. All in all, this is a good machine and a great option to consider when making such an investment.
The Positives
- Affordable – It is quite inexpensive in comparison to its above competitors
- Capable of sewing heavyweight fabrics – From lightweight and medium to heavyweight fabrics, this machine that comes with a nice bundle of stitches and needles can sew everything.
- Automatic needle threader – Since it comes with an automatic needle threader, sewing is a breeze. From now on, you eyes are safe as the needle can be threaded automatically.
- The stitch selector is easy to use – With a simple turn of the dial, you can use what stitch you will need in order to accomplish your projects.
The Negatives
- It lacks the up/down button – Compared to other machines, it doesn’t have the button for the up/down position of the needle.
Final Words
After a lot of research into the pros and cons of various tailoring machines, we are glad to present you this amazingly affordable model that comes with a plethora of impressive features, functions, and accessories. Not only that it comes at a reasonable price, but it also is one of the most effective sewing machines for leather available on the market.
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You should use this heavy-duty machine for tough and heavy materials such as leather, nylon, canvas, and denim. It has 10.5” long cylinder bed which means that you can use it for small and large jobs with ease. What you will thoroughly enjoy is the fact that it has been designed with a variable speed servo motor which means that you will have full control over the operation. The Japanese rotary hook will ensure an easy operation so you don’t have to waste time on such detail. What stands out about this model is the fact that it has been crafted with 2,200 stitches per minutes with a maximum stitch length of up to 5mm.
When it comes to needles, you have the option to choose between 135×17 (DPx17) #16 to #24, Thread: #45 to #210. The drop-in bobbin system will ensure easy insertion and removal of bobbins. You can reverse and adjust the stitch length which means that you can use this machine regardless if you’re a novice or a professional. It also comes fully assembled which means that you can use it straight out of the box without the help of a professional.
The Positives
- Heavy-duty metal frame – The thick steel will maintain the same high-quality throughout the years.
- Heavy-duty – You can use this machine on materials such as canvas, leather, and bulky materials
- Adjustable motor speed – You can adjust the speed to make it work according to your own needs so you can use it regardless if you’re a novice or professional
- Numerous accessories included – At no extra price you will receive tools, accessories, and bobbin winder
The Negatives
- No LCD screen or digital fetaures
Final Words
The reason why we recommend this model is because it has been made in order to provide you with convenience and practicality. You have the option to use this product for many projects without worrying that it will lose efficiency. The machine comes inspected, oiled, and adjusted which means that you can use it straight out of the box.
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Although this machine is often used for home use, this has been built to meet professional standards. The automatic thread button simultaneously trims the needle and bobbin threads as it presses the push-button. This is preferred in industrial sewing needs. In addition to this, the machine has also been built with a tension cable that will adjust the tension automatically according to the material that you’re using. As it has a speed control lever, you will have full control over the speed. You can choose between 200 to 1500 stitches per minute.
Due to the fact that it has computerized settings, you will be able to saw accurately on a range of materials at low speeds even on thick materials such as multiple layers of fabric, quilts, and leather. What stands out about this machine is the fact that when it stops, the needle will stop in the down position to allow you to do accurate free motion work. You can move the needle as you desire by simply pressing the labeled button.
You can use this machine in low-light conditions as it has been engineered with a bright-white LED light that will illuminate the whole sewing area. As well as, numerous beginners have vouched for this model due to the fact that it’s easy to control it. For example, if you want to replace or remove the bobbin, the large bobbin case and the surrounding area will guide you to do it properly. As well as, the knee lifter lever will allow you to lift or lower the presser foot without using your hands.
The Positives
- Extension table – You will be able to properly control large fabrics.
- Adjustable settings – In addition to speed you can also adjust the stitch length up to 6mm.
- Low noise – Even though it’s a powerful machine with 1500 stitches per minute, it won’t make thunderous noises while operating.
- Powerful – You can use this machine on soft materials such as silk and satin. As well as, you can also use it for fur, leather, and reptile skin.
The Negatives
- Maintenance – As it’s for heavy-duty use, you will need to pay attention to it on a regular basis.
- Warranty – The company will offer you a limited warranty period.
Final Words
If you’re looking for a model that you aren’t required to invest further, this is the right model for your needs. The reason for this is because it comes with numerous accessories such as several presser feet, auxiliary table, extension table, knee lifter lever, and foot controller.
Frequently Asked Questions
1Can a sewing machine for real tough leather can be used to sew faux leather?
The faux leather is softer and more lightweight than real leather. It is just like a regular fabric that can be sewn with a sewing machine. And why not, with a sewing machine for leather.
2 What type of thread should be used when sewing through leather?
You can try the bonded nylon thread. It is available in multiple weighs. This is the best choice out there, especially because you will need one that matches the thickness of the material.
3Can I sew leather with a regular sewing machine?
It is not recommended to sew leather items on a traditional tailoring machine as you can damage the fabric. The leather is a tough and resistant material that should be sewn only on industrial machines that come equipped with specific needles and threads.
