I would buy a newer metal machine if available. I have a new Janome and I love it but it can't sew the crazy things I sew. I have a 72 Kenmore that is a workhorse. It's done everything from sheer fabrics to 4 layers of vinyl. I just finished a tonot (?) cover for the pickup....That old machine sewed just fine...the Janome couldn't handle fabrics that heavy.