I have a Janome 6600P which does fine with thick fabrics; also have a Husqvarna Platinum which is a workhorse...and we won't go into the numerous older machines that I think will handle most anything you can throw at them. THe Janome was about $1400, a bit more than you asked about; the Platinum was a steal at auction for about $450. Good luck...you might also try Craig's List in your area or visit your local sewing machine shop and talk to the owner for his/her ideas. Good luck!