I have 2 107's. One with modified cam for 3 step stitch. They are great, but really best for seaming. They will sew fairly heavy material, but require constant re-timing when you do it on a regular basis. For canvas, it's best to have a walking foot machine, but the 107 will do a fairly decent strait stich if you take your time. I'm amazed at how well the little, light weight, multi purpose Bernina's do on heavier material. The one I tried, could switch from 3 step, to zig zag, to strait stitch and worked like a champ in all three modes sewing though a couple of layers of sunbrella.
I also have a big Adler zag zag machine (206?? which also does a strait stitch, w reverse, etc. ) I think it would sew through metal if it had to. Unfortunately, parts are very expensive. (new hook is $250). I'll keep filing down the old one as long as possible.
rb
tpl wrote:the Pfaff is a rugged little monster--ours is from New
Zealand, and is handy onboard: yet in the loft,
sailmakers seem to prefer commercial zig-zag models
such as the Singer 107: using a clutch-motor,
you have better control, speed and penetrating power:
also the kneelifter is a wonderful device, permitting the
foot to be raised with hands still on the work. And unlike
their near-sisters the 143, the 107s sew both heavy and
light. And from what I've seen of 130 prices here in
USA, the 107 is likely to be cheaper, even with the
table, clutch-motor, threadstand and so forth.