The problem you will run into with longer stitches on this model is the continuously wheel-feed system on it,it doesn't stop like most machines so if you go to stitches that are too long it will bend & break needles.You didn't mention what you want to sew,but I see your into old cars so I suppose you might want to sew car seats?If so there are alot better machines suited for the task than this one.Singer 11W or 211W,Juki 562,563,Consew 206,225,226 to name a few.They all have walking feet & needle=feed that help pull the material through you can also get cording feet for them too.