Heavy-Duty Sewing Machines. Although we all like to assume our sewing machine of choice is well-built, this isn’t always the case.
To call itself heavy-duty, a sewing machine needs to tick certain boxes.
Yes, the frame needs to be heavy and made from quality materials, but if it doesn’t stop it from vibrating so much that you need to take a break every few minutes, your money won’t be well spent.
This is why we have created the following buyer’s guide.
We detail the ins and outs of what a heavy-duty sewing machine should be capable of so the product you settle on will be a winner.
Metal Frame
This might seem obvious, but you’ll be surprised at how many brands use cheap materials to build their products.
The better sewing machines will have a heavy metal frame that reduces vibrations.
This will mean they will weigh more than some of the other types of sewing machines, but the benefit will be in how long you can use them without needing a break.
Stitches Per Minute
Although this is important, it shouldn’t put you off certain models completely.
Many people find a machine that can push out 850 stitches per minute gives them enough power.
Although a heavy-duty sewing machine offers more significant features, a professional will need a faster machine to finish their projects on time.
Adjustable Speed
For many people, this is more important than the stitch output.
Being able to control the speed can help you to sew tougher materials with reliable stitches.
Also, a beginner will want to be able to take things a little slower as they build up their confidence.
Built-In Stitches
There is a tendency to spend more to get more with heavy-duty sewing machines, which you will find in the number of built-in stitches they offer.
Some of the budget options might only have around 50 or below, whilst the more advanced models have hundreds.
A technical sewing machine will give you plenty of options, including alphanumeric fonts, so you can personalize your pieces.
LED Light
Many people assume their heavy-duty sewing machine will come with an LED light as standard, but this isn’t always the case.
Check to make sure the model you like the look of comes with an LED light, as it will make sewing dark fabric much easier.
Also, check on the quality. Some products come with one but aren’t bright enough to truly help.
Additional Presser Feet
The more presser feet your machine includes, the greater the number of projects you can take on.
Most of the recommended machines come with more than a few, which means you can use your machine to sew zippers and buttonholes.
Up/Down Needle
This is important if you sew different fabrics or work with tougher, thicker materials.
Being able to move the needle means you can take on various projects and work, including quilting.
Warranty
Not every heavy-duty sewing machine comes with a long warranty, although you should expect any reputable brand to include one as standard.
The length can vary between 2 and 25 years, and the longer you get, the better.
This is because a sewing machine has so many moving parts that it could break without it being your fault.
Always look for a product with a lengthy warranty to protect your purchase (especially if you are spending a lot of money).
Portability
Although you want your heavy-duty sewing machine to be heavy enough to withstand high speeds without vibrating too much, you will still want the freedom to be able to take it anywhere.
Many people carry their sewing machines to groups and classes or just take them to friends to help them stitch something.
This isn’t specific to a heavy-duty sewing machine, but it is a trait that the better products should offer.
Because of the thicker materials these machines can sew, you never know the size and shape of the fabrics you will be working with.
An extension table makes it easier to use your machine for quilting and makes the process more comfortable.
Although many of the features remain the same, one of the major differences between the two is its ability to sew tougher materials.
A regular sewing machine might not be well suited to denim or leather, which is why many people look for a heavy-duty sewing machine.
The parts tend to be stronger, and they are capable of holding larger needles that can pierce stronger materials with ease.
The stitches per minute will say a lot about its performance, and a professional will need as many as possible to keep pace with their ability.
Many people ask this question when looking for the right model for their needs.
A lot will depend on the type of work you will be doing, as a heavy-duty sewing machine might not be necessary.
The majority of people who look for a heavy-duty sewing machine are professionals.
This is because they need a reliable machine that is fine for constant use.
Heavy-duty sewing machines also tend to have more features than basic models, so a professional can switch between settings to take on different types of work.
This depends on your needs.
A professional will find that a basic heavy-duty sewing machine is too limited in its capabilities and will need to look for something with more features, stitches per minute, and built-in stitches, to name a few.
A premium model can cost around $500, but the number of options you get is impressive for this kind of budget.
Anyone who needs a sewing machine that does more than the basics can usually find something for around $250 – 300.
Finally, a beginner can find a quality heavy-duty sewing machine for under $200 that will last a long time.
You might have to settle for only a handful of built-in stitches, but if you get it right, you should end up with a reliable product.
Proper maintenance for a heavy-duty sewing machine is no different from what you should expect to do with a regular machine.
 Over time, dust can impact the permanence.
Also, please clean it properly now and then and remember to oil it regularly.
Although many people tend to forget, it should be serviced by a professional once a year to prolong its lifespan.
Even a heavy-duty sewing machine cannot eliminate vibrations.
However, they are known for having a sturdy metal interior that reduces vibrations compared to standard models.
You can always put a felt mat underneath to stop it from moving so much on the table or reduce the speed if necessary.
We hope you enjoyed this review for heavy duty sewing machines
