They are a powerful straight stitch machine that will not complain about sewing over seam junctions, stitching zippers in coveralls or hemming denim jeans. This was a very popular Singer model for many years known as the Farmer's Wife's Special. I guess they figured that any farmer's wife would be mending jeans and coveralls. They are similar to the Singer 201 but were less expensive. They have a relatively large harp so it is easier to stuff bulky garments (think snowmobile coat zipper repairs)through them. They only do a straight stitch but do have a reverse.