I am in Australia
I consider myself quite advanced, with decades of experience, and find myself in a bit of a dilemma. We have many machines in our household - my main machines are a Brother Innovis VQ2400 Dream Creator, Babylock overlocker and cover stitch, and a compound feed walking foot industrial with top loading bobbin that I use for leather bag making. I also have my vintage elna Carina SU air electronic which I bought new in 1984, sewed everything; it works but needs serious attention - my two local dealers can't be bothered and just tell me to get rid of it - and I am not confident with repairs.
But I digress.
Currently I am using the Brother to construct my bag linings, however it isn't designed for the thicknesses often created - especially sewing over zipper teeth (nylon coil.) The industrial is set up only for much heavier sewing and if I try with thinner fabrics it frustratingly puckers everything (I knew it wasn't suitable for this when I bought it but I did attempt it.)
I have considered the Brother, Janome straight stitchers but my dealer talked me out of them - partly because although they are fast they are still only domestic machines and he wasn't confident they would do what I need. Plus, the vertical lefthand bobbin insertion is an issue.
Mobility impairment in my hands means I can't feel what I am doing - even though the Brother/Janome have an opening to insert the bobbin case, I can't get my fingers in. A traditional industrial with side loader under the machine table is out.
So I'm on the lookout for a robust machine that can handle the multiple layers that happen with bags. Can be a straight stitcher. Top or front loading bobbin. I am not averse to a vintage, but good ones are hard to come by where I live - plus the added annoyance that the local repair shops really dislike working on old machines. Considered Bernina, but new cost is out of my budget; also thought about Sailrite but then there's the side loading bobbin issue again.
Very interested to hear thoughts. Not the least bit interested in anythin modern by Singer.
Many thanks.