I'm starting a new project and I really need some experienced advice on heavy duty sewing machines. I'm not looking for anything fancy (or expensive), but I need something that can handle heavy faux furs, canvas,strapping, etc.  Our Kenmore is a little light for the job it seems. I should also say that I'm still a real novice on sewing machines, so simpler is better. not looking for all the latest digital dodads. It'd be nice if I can find something simple and reliable for under four or five hundred bucks. Anyone have any suggestions?

Do a search here on sewing machines. We discussed them a while back. 

You can buy a commercial machine (fairly expensive unless you happen on to a used one), or you can buy a good used metal machine.  White has one called a Jeans Machine, (I have had 3 of them, still have 2)and have used them on the items you mentioned and a lot of others. I have also had a metal Kenmore, which my grandmother bought new, sewed with it for years (including sewing for others), then gave it to me when I married 36 ears ago.  I used it for years, finally sold it. 

I have an older Bernina, and a couple of others that work great.  I also have some newer, inexpensive plastic machines (I teach sewing classes).  I prefer the metal ones! Craigslist, garage or estate sales, or a place that deals in used sewing machines are places to check.  The advantage to buying one from a dealer is they will have checked it out and repaired any problems. You will pay more.  I have been very fortunate, I've purchased machines at auctions, garage sales, estate sales, etc., and I've never bought one that had a problem. 

I agree with msPuppet. I have bought mine at secondhand stores or church stores. The older metal type are usually the best.

Thanks for the responses. I have to admit, it's all very confusing to me. I don't know sewing machines or their features well enough to pick and choose. I've looked at what's available around town here and just gotten more confused than ever. I think I need to educate myself quickly!

All you need is a very basic machine. One that does a straight stitch and a zig zag.  Machine stores want to sell you all the bells and whistles, which you don't need for puppets.  Have you looked at used machines? If you get a name and model number you can look up details on the web and often download owners manuals.

"basic" but not "cheap".  Especially if you are going to sew fur.  I totally agree to go used over a new cheap machine.  Those big, heavy, clunky machines work forever if you keep the clean. 

I love the idea of an older machine, but I've only been able to locate one or two heavy duty ones in my area and they are too old to find manuals for. Unfortunately, I need to buy this almost immediately and being a complete novice I think I'm going to wind up buying something new that has a warranty, manual, and someplace to get replacement parts. Maybe in a few years when I'm hopefully feeling more confident about sewing machines, I can hunt down one of those great old machines.

I just wanted to add a quick note that although it is good to have a nice sturdy machine that there are some basic low cost items that can help with just about any machine.  First make sure you have the correct weight needle.   The higher the number the heavier a fabric it can handle. The a 14 or 16 is what I use for heavier fabrics.

Your machine might already have a walking foot with it. Walking foots can help guide/push heavier fabrics through the machine.

I have a standing gig each year with a company that deals with both body characters and costumes that are heavy fabrics. They have a large array of machines available to me including industrial machines. You want to know which machine I choose each year?  A cheap little household Juki with no frills. I've plowed through heavy fabrics and furs with this guy for over ten years now. Granted I've been sewing most my life and have a feel for fabric and how to manipulate it through a machine, but don't get too caught up on owning the "right" machine.

I just wanted to add a quick note that although it is good to have a nice sturdy machine that there are some basic low cost items that can help with just about any machine.  First make sure you have the correct weight needle.   The higher the number the heavier a fabric it can handle. The a 14 or 16 is what I use for heavier fabrics.

Your machine might already have a walking foot with it. Walking foots can help guide/push heavier fabrics through the machine.

I have a standing gig each year with a company that deals with both body characters and costumes that are heavy fabrics. They have a large array of machines available to me including industrial machines. You want to know which machine I choose each year?  A cheap little household Juki with no frills. I've plowed through heavy fabrics and furs with this guy for over ten years now. Granted I've been sewing most my life and have a feel for fabric and how to manipulate it through a machine, but don't get too caught up on owning the "right" machine.

Very good advice Shawn, The proper needle and pressure foot are very important.

If you are going for a new one, be prepared to pay a lot! Unless you go with a Bernina (and the new ones have more plastic parts) , Juki, Pfaff, New Home or something of that nature, you are going to get a plastic machine with plastic parts (which cannot handle heavy stuff). The better ones are pricey. 

Don't know where you are, but if you are in or near a major city, there are used sewing machine shops.  Craigslist is another good resource.  Like I said, most owners manuals can be downloaded, you just need to know the make and model.  Any of the above or a Singer (built before 1975) or Kenmore are good to buy used, as long as they are metal with mostly metal parts. Absolutely don't get one with a plastic bobbin case.

Steer clear of any of the machines sold in Wal Mart, Joanne's etc., they are not heavy duty. And forget about a computerized machine, they just don't work for heavy stuff.

Totally agree with everything said. Your choice of foot and needle can aid in the use of these materials on a new machine. And the older the machine, the better (with regular servicing). I have newer machines but generally use my old knee operated Singer. It only does straight stitch but it can plough through anything! If you have sourced a couple of older machines cheaply, don't let the absence of manuals deter you. Spend a couple of hours with a machine with some scrap fabrics and you'll nut it out. Otherwise, in Australia (and I'm guessing everywhere) you can pay for a lesson where you take your own machine to a outlet and they instruct you on it's use. Any machine servicing centre would also be able to guide you on the basic functions. Good luck!

http://www.managemylife.com/mmh/owner_manuals/search/product_type.Sewing?query=Kenmore
Here is a  great site to get all kinds of manuals you can download for free. I got the manual for my used machine here, I hope it helps.

Well, I hope I've done the right thing. Found this one nearby on Craigslist. Singer 15-91 Vintage sewing machine.

It seems to work really well. The guy selling it is a service manager for a local Sewing machine shop and has redone the machine.  Have I done good or bad?!?!

Great choice. That machine will probably outlast you!  Those were made to survive.  Have fun with it.

I think you just bought my mom's machine, lol. Have fun with it!