Does anyone know anything about industrial sewing machines?

[MegaLegs]

I love my old Singer but I have a project and possible business idea in mind and I fell I'll need a more robust machine.

Would an industrial one be best or are there some sturdy, really clever domestic ones that would do the job? (Lot's of sewing of quite heavy cotton fabrics)

Hi, industrial machines definately the best if you can find one for yourself. Have you tried ebay.

I'm not sure but MIL has a small business that involves using a sewing machine and I know she uses a few craft/sewing forums online and they share tips about machines, buy and sell machines etc

It might be worth googling to see what you come up with?

Be careful on ebay, a lot of the so called industrial machines on there are not apparently what they seem.

Try the local papers - industrial machines are sooo much better than any domestic machine you will have been used to.
There are so many factories closing down, as loads of production goes off-shore. Lots of the industrial machines, are also single-phase electic - so you will be able to use right away at home.
The only difference, is that you don't get the same flexibiltiy that you do with home machines. So, a straight lock-stitch machine will only do that (all you can vary is the stitch length). Get one with foot lift/thread trimmers etc if you can - you will not believe the difference it will make.

If you have any other specific questions please ask.

Thank you all!

NKffffffetc... was just looking on ebay but don't really have a clue about what to look for, there were lots though.

BetSpag - will google some sewing forums.

screaming housewife - thanks, I'll get lots of advice before I buy, there's a brilliant sewing amchine man near here, he might help me out

Thanks MrsBoo - sounds like your my woman. I will alsmost certainly be seeking you out for more advice

Thanks again everyone

Hi Mega
When you're further on in your project, you can ask me anything.
There are many brands, might be better to stick to one of the main ones, such as Juki, Brother, Pfaff.
Make sure you get one with a table - so the machine sits flat on the surface. This is a real difference if you're used to a normal machine which sits on top of your work surface.
A knee-lifter, (for your right knee) means you can lift the foot without using your hands - you will get used to this really quickly and wonder how you work without it.
Depends on your budget, but you can also get good machines, which can be programmed to backstitch a set number of stitches at the start and end of each seam; and ones which will automatically backstitch and cut the thread at the end of each seam. (mostly operated from the big foot pedal).

Good luck in your search, you might find yellow pages for your area would have a local man still acting as agent for these machines, as there are loads of small businesses in the UK using these machines. Would be useful to have a good contact for servicing etc