I use a Rex industrial for the big stuff, it will take 2 layers of thick work belt leather and sew it like it's not there.

I did my first canvas kilt with the wife's Singer Fashion Mate that must be 35+ years old. I had no trouble with power on 10-11 oz. canvas.

Make sure that you choose one that's pretty beefy. Some new machines for quilting can be carried with 1 finger due to a mostly plastic construction.

I bought the wife a Singer 3116 from WallyMart. It wasn't too expensive and seems to be very sturdy.

A agree about having a large table area to work on-an 8 yard canvac kilt is pretty heavy and tries to run off the table at every chance!

Ray