Project one: To tailor a long-sleeve T-shirt. But first, I needed thread. A trip to Michael’s revealed a forgotten section toward the back of the store for sewing. Thread, they had—and a handful of “notions,” the buttons and zippers you can incorporate into projects. To get there, you had to wend your way past styrofoam skeletons, every faux flower variety ever invented, and enough glue gun ammunition to repair a battleship. Don’t go to Michael’s if you’re into sewing.

Built to handle even the toughest fabrics, heavy duty sewing machines are equipped with powerful motors and robust construction. These machines can sew through multiple layers of denim, canvas, and other thick materials without skipping stitches or overwhelming the motor. For fashion designers and hobbyists who enjoy working with heavier textiles, investing in a heavy duty zigzag sewing machine means less downtime and more creativity.

The single needle top stitch is characterized by the use of a single needle and a straight stitch, typically sewn on the top layer of fabric. This method differs from other sewing techniques that might use a double needle or decorative stitches. The singularity and precision of the single needle allow for clean lines and crisp finishes. It is commonly employed in a variety of sewing projects, ranging from apparel to home décor.

1. Powerful Motor A heavy-duty sewing machine should have a powerful motor that can handle thick materials with ease. Look for machines that offer at least 1.0 amp motors, as they provide the necessary strength to penetrate tough fabrics like leather.