They're pricey, but the Sailrite machines on ebay are hella strong and can sew leather. They're sailmaking machines. If you're seriously into it, get one with a walking foot.

for stitching up 4-5 layers of twill to make a lightweight kilt, or 2-3 layers of denim a resonable quality home machine will do it. Getting a machine that will do zig-zag is a real help, but I've made two kilts on a straight-stitch-only machine.

1.) straight-stitch with adjustable stitch length
2.) zig-zag with adjustable stitch width and length
3.) a buttonhole stitch......and you are set for 99% of kilt-related and kilt-jacket sewing.


As for stitching any leather beyond light suede...I know nothing!!