Deciding on a sewing machine for Wheaton Labs

We would like to have a sewing machine for the Lab.

I have never done machine sewing, only hand sewing, so I know nothing about sewing machines.

Projects we would like it to be able to handle include window quilts, which involve wool thread and fabric and ~5-inch-thick wool batting (see pictures below). It would be great if it could handle the quilting, too.

Also we would eventually like to be able to upholster couches and chairs, make mattresses to stuff with natural materials, make quilts/duvets, etc.

Also we would like it to handle clothing repairs (including insulated coveralls, canvas jackets, etc. as well as lighter things like tee shirts).

Is there such a sewing machine? Preferably one that isn’t astronomically expensive? Repairability is also a plus.

Thanks!

Do not buy anything new nor anythin with plastic parts or gears.
Get any good old pre 80s heavy class 15 machine.
Old Pfaffs, Berninas singers , Janomes Dressmakers, etc.
Old Kenmores even up thru the 80s are awesome.
25 -50 bucks will buy a great machine that will out last you.
New machines are disposable.

Hi Jennifer, as we had talked face to face, I called a tailor who is in her eighties and this is what she told me:

For heavy sewing of canvas and upholstery, you'll need a walking foot so a Juki with a walking foot would be good.


So she said she really likes the bernina for the following types of work (singer is also good):
For traditional knits, dresses, and suits you'll need a machine with blind stitch abilities.

For modern materials which stretch, like the levis that stretch, you'll need a machine with a cover lock stitch ability.

She also mentioned that a $300 janome will do the same job a $1500 machine will do.

She said you can find a lot of technical information at https://www.sewingmachinesplus.com/

Thank you Marie!  You're the best!

I just bought a Janome from sewingmachinesplus.com, in January. I chose the HD3000 Heavy Duty Mechanical Sewing Machine, for its versatility, longevity, and lots of great reviews. Though I haven't had a ton of time to sew, the things I've done with it have honestly been the happiest machine sewing of my life! This machine is solid, sturdy, and runs smooth as silk. And, can take almost any fabric I can throw at it. If you go with it - and I would highly recommend it - do be due to read the instructions, add you learn it's neat little tricks. With this one, I am making buttonholes like a pro - and had never done them, before! The directions are clear, it comes with a bunch of different feet, with their own, protected, onboard storage. I'm even antsy to get back up to my crazy room, to play with it, some more. That's REALLY saying something, because I've always preferred hand sewing. Good luck with your search!

Another vote for a Janome (old or new!!). When I moved to Japan I went to a pawnshop and got one that had to be at least 25 years old. It was excellent- even without a manual it was intuitive and I used the heck out of it. I ended up selling it when I left and wish I hadn't.
(I later bought myself a "Domestic", which I think is a generic simple Chinese workhorse brand- I wanted a Husqvarna but couldn't afford it. Now it is also 25+ years old, it has served just fine and also gets heavy use. I'm glad I didn't pay Big Bucks for a fancy machine.)

Did you get a machine?

I find that a domestic machine will do a lot, but many of the heavy duty tasks you mention would need an industrial machine.
I think it's worth getting a second hand old machine and getting to understand how it works and what its limits are before getting something industrial which will inevitably be more expensive. With the knowlegde from the domestic machine you'll know better how to approach equipping yourself for the more heavy duty tasks.

Ditto.  I would look for a used industrial machine if you don’t need fancy stitching.