Best heavy duty sewing machines for denim and canvas

In its favour

• At 9.53 kg with a metal body it stays steady over thick seams and bulky bags.
• The bonus kit adds a walking foot, quarter inch foot, open toe foot and free motion foot.
• Extra presser foot lift and a convertible free arm are listed for bulky items and jeans hems.

Good to know

• Eighteen stitches is a short list if you also want decorative work.
• There is no speed slider or screen; control is through the pedal.

In its favour

• A non stick foot for leather and PVC comes in the box, so you can start on vinyl straight away.
• The J foot levelling button helps the foot climb over thick seams such as jeans side seams.
• A metal needle plate and a 3 year Brother warranty are listed.

Good to know

• The listing does not state buttonhole type or top speed.
• Twenty seven stitches covers the basics but not much decorative work.

In its favour

• A 1,100 stitches a minute top speed is the highest stated in this guide.
• Adjustable presser foot pressure and an extra high lift are listed for thick layers.
• Drop feed, a drop-in bobbin, four presser feet and a dust cover are included.

Good to know

• Only 11 stitches and a four step buttonhole, so it is a workhorse rather than an all rounder.
• At 6.4 kg it is lighter than the metal Janomes and may move on heavy work.

In its favour

• An aluminium frame and body and a stated 25 year limited warranty point to a long working life.
• At 9.07 kg it is heavy enough to stay put on canvas and denim.
• An automatic needle threader is listed, which most basic heavy machines leave out.

Good to know

• The listing warns it is an international product that may differ from local versions; check plug and voltage.
• A front loading bobbin is harder to monitor than a clear drop-in bobbin.

In its favour

• A reinforced motor and high penetration capacity are listed for thick fabrics.
• A metal frame with a stainless steel plate is stated.
• Twenty three stitches cover straight, zigzag, stretch and blind hem work.

Good to know

• The listing is brief and does not describe the buttonhole, speed or included feet.
• The gift set contents are not itemised in the listing.

In its favour

• The listing states a powerful motor for thick fabrics, multiple layers and denim.
• Thirty two stitches is a wider choice than most heavy duty models here.
• A free arm helps with jeans legs and cuffs.

Good to know

• The listing gives no reliable weight, top speed or buttonhole type.
• Included feet and accessories are not listed.

In its favour

• A knee lifter is included, freeing both hands to guide bulky work.
• A hemmer foot, cloth guide and oil are listed in the box.
• At 9.53 kg with a metal build it stays steady at speed.

Good to know

• The listing does not state stitch count or buttonhole, so it is not a beginner's all rounder.
• Top speed is described as high but no figure is given.