Hey Equiss, I don't know if I'd call this machine lighter weight LOL! It's actually a large machine that weighs about 80 lbs... It uses large needles so would be good for saddles and stuff... I personally use a Janome for my smaller thinner goods (including my farrier's chaps, so not 'too' thin LOL) and it chugs right along. I've also heard that older singers and husqvarnas are really good too.
OH, and to those who've responded, things got hectic and I hadn't been able to get back to you, I've done that now but if you don't get my messages re pm me!!