I have done some sewing by machine and hand. sails, packcloth items. im ordering fabric for the shortshot. I like the idea if being able to pull stitches tight in the 11 oz but first time out I like the shrinkability of the 8 oz. if the 11 0z is a great leap forward ill go with that. I take it pushing a needle through it isn't a problem. I assume 18 feet for shortshot? also, I assume pricing on foot rests is each so I need $29.00 X 2? .....frame construction was just as depicted in the videos. a small block plane is essential. the Lie-Nielsen I splurged on years ago great but the larger heavier Stanley worked just fine to. my wife couldn't believe the whole thing gets covered up.