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Janome 7360 Review

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Janome 7360 Computerized Sewing Machine Main Features

  • 60 built-in stitches
  • Memorized needle up/down
  • Start/stop button and speed control slider
  • Locking stitch button
  • Bonus accessory package

CLICK HERE to read what other buyers say about Janome 7360.

Janome 7360 Review

Janome 7360 ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : HIGH

7360 is the most advanced machine in the Magnolia series (also the most expensive). Magnolia 7360 has 60 built-in stitches on-board, which includes 7 one-step buttonholes as well. Normally you expect a machine of this price to feature a top drop-in bobbin with clear cover, and it doesn’t disappoint. The automatic thread tension control ensures consistent stitch quality across different types of fabrics. The automatic needle threader makes threading the needle effortless (this is not a huge surprise, you get this even on $80 machines). It also has a snap-on type presser feet, which means you don’t need to run for the screwdriver every time you need to change the feet.

Memorized needle up/down is probably the most important feature on Janome 7360. This is a must have feature for quilters. 7360 is a machine targeted at quilters, so you expect this anyway. Memorized needle up/down is handy while pivoting around corners. The backlit LED screen is pretty basic (and small). It is not an advanced screen that you get on a Brother SE400 or other Brother machines. Easy navigation keys are provided for quick stitch selection. The buttons to adjust stitch width and length are provided right next to the screen. The maximum stitch width is 7mm and stitch length is 5mm.

Most of the expensive Janome machines now come with 7 piece feed dogs which ensure consistent stitch quality and 7360 is no exception. Sewing start/stop button and speed control slider is the main feature that differentiates a computerized machine from a mechanical one. With the speed control slider, you are in full control of the sewing speed. You can go super fast or super slow according to your requirements. Slow speeds work the best for beginners (even though beginners may not require a sewing machine as expensive as this. Janome 7330 might just be enough for them, which costs around $200 less).

Janome 7360 is free arm convertible and there is an option to drop the feed dogs, just in case you want to do some free-motion quilting. Separate buttons are provided for locking stitch and reverse sewing. Auto-declutch bobbin winder prevents over filling. The extra clearance provided by the extra-high presser foot lifter is really handy while working with multiple layers of fabrics. Retractable carrying handle adds to the portability.

The machine weighs 16.45 pounds, which is a clear indication that most parts are made of metal, which is good for durability. From my experience of reviewing sewing machines, I have seen that Janome machines are generally better built for durability. They use metal wherever possible, rather than using cheap plastic to cut costs. Which is why Janome machines are always expensive especially when you compare the features.

As I have said earlier, Janome 7360 is targeted at quilters, so Janome has included a bonus accessory package worth $118 (according to Janome, not me) with this machine. The package includes Walking Foot and a 1/4″ foot. I think the $118 worth is just a marketing gimmick, not a big deal.

Usability

Janome 7360 is a workhorse. The machine has an incredible ability to perform admirably on different types of fabrics. It works well on lightweight fabrics and works even better on multiple layers of denim (6 plus layers and no problem at all). You can feel the quality from the first stitch itself. It has best stitch quality among the sewing machines I have reviewed in the recent past. You have a lot of stitches to choose from as well. I really like the built quality of this machine. If looked after well, it will serve you long for sure.

Limitations

You can’t say that the motor is a beast. On paper, Janome 7360’s motor can deliver 820 stitches/minute. In this class, you normally expect at least 850 spm. But the interesting thing is that, it never felt under powered, in fact it worked flawlessly.

Being projected as a machine for quilters, Janome missed the trick as they didn’t include an extension table.

Pros

  • Good variety of stitches
  • Memorized needle up/down
  • Awesome stitch quality
  • Great for thick fabrics
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Plain LED screen
  • No extension table

Is It Worth Buying ?

At this point, I really can’t find any reason to not to buy Janome 7360. It sews like a dream, at least that is what you expect from a sewing machine. It may not have 200 built-in stitches or something, but the quality is for everyone to see. Some might consider it as expensive, but I think it is really worth the money.

Honesty Policy: The above link is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy anything from Amazon using the link above, I will get a small amount in commission to feed my family. You won’t lose any money, Amazon will pay me.

The post Janome 7360 Review appeared first on Best Home Ideas.


Janome 49018 Review

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Janome 49018 Computerized Sewing Machine Main Features

  • 18 built-in stitches
  • Speed control slider
  • Programmable needle up/down
  • Locking stitch button
  • Extra high presser foot lifter

CLICK HERE to read what other buyers say about Janome New Home 49018.

Janome 49018 Review

Janome 49018 ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : MODERATE

When I first saw Janome 49018, I felt it was quite affordable but it turned out to be not as affordable as it looks. We will talk about the affordability later. Now let us talk about what 49018 packs in features. This is a beginners sewing machine. It has 18 built-in stitches and 3 one-step buttonholes. The backlit LCD screen looks good and is easy to understand. Directional buttons are provided right next to the screen for easy stitch selection and adjustments like stitch width and length. Maximum stitch width that can be set is 7mm and stitch length is 5mm.

Janome 49018 comes with sewing start/stop button and speed control slider which lets you sew without the foot pedal. Programmable needle up/down and locking stitch buttons are the premium features you get on this machine. Programmable needle up/down lets you stop the needle in up/down position depending on whether you want to pivot or remove the fabric. This is a feature that is essential for quilters. With locking stitch button, you can lock the stitches so that they don’t come off quickly. A separate reverse sewing button is also provided.

The auto declutch bobbin winder will stop winding the bobbin once it is full (a nice feature but common in most modern sewing machines). The bobbin is top drop-in type with clear cover, this gives you an additional advantage as you can keep an eye on the bobbin thread supply. The needle plate has measurements and angle markings for accuracy. The automatic needle threader is a huge time saver. Janome 49018 doesn’t come with auto tension, the thread tension needs to be adjusted manually.

For ensuring consistent stitch quality Janome has included a 7-piece feed dog on this machine. Once you remove the storage compartment, the machine is ready to do free arm sewing. This is essential for sewing cuffs and sleeves. Drop feed option is provided for free-motion quilting. Sewing multiple layers of fabrics is not an issue on this machine, thanks to the extra high presser foot lifter. You can categorize Janome 49018 as a lightweight sewing machine, as it weighs just 12.5 pounds. So this machine won’t be a bad choice for those who want to attend sewing classes.

Usability

The easy to understand user manual really helps. The machine is very easy to set up, beginners will find it very easy. The stitch quality is great. The straight stitches are as perfect as you can get. Janome New Home 49018 is one of the quietest machines around. You can easily work on it while your kids are asleep, no issues whatsoever. Even though this is a lightweight machine, it is sturdy enough prevent vibrations at high speed. It doesn’t move around the table.

Limitations

The included softcover is not that great, there is no hardcover as well. So you will have to spend couple of dollars for it.

The bobbin winding motor seems to act up under heavy use. Under normal use, it won’t be an issue.

The biggest bummer of this machine is its price, especially when you can get other Janome machines with few more dollars.

Pros

  • Portable
  • Easy to set up
  • Quiet
  • Good stitch quality

Cons

  • Slightly notchy bobbin winder
  • Expensive

Is It Worth Buying ?

It depends on the price. Currently, it seems to be over priced by at least $25. This is more apparent when you can get computerized  Janome DC1050 with 50 built-in stitches for few extra dollars. I am not trying up sell here. If you feel that 18 built-in stitches are enough for you, then Janome 49018 won’t be a bad choice at all. Even then, I don’t quite feel that it is a machine for heavy use. I feel DC1050 would be a better choice any way.

Honesty Policy: The above link is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy anything from Amazon using the link above, I will get a small amount in commission to feed my family. You won’t lose any money, Amazon will pay me.

The post Janome 49018 Review appeared first on Best Home Ideas.

Janome 1017 Review

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Janome 1017 Main Features

  • 10 built-in stitches
  • 650 SPM motor
  • Free arm

CLICK HERE to read what other buyers say about Janome 1017.

Janome 1017 Review

Janome 1017 ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : LOW

Janome 1017 is an inexpensive beginners sewing machine. Not quite sure whether it is discontinued or not (it seems retired), as it is not available in major sewing machine stores across US. The machine comes with 10 built-in stitches and a 4-step buttonhole. There are 17 stitch functions in total. It features an auto declutch bobbin winder which stops winding the bobbin when it is full. It has a motor capable of delivering 650 stitches/min, which is pretty impressive.

Stitch width and length can be adjusted on Janome 1017. Maximum zigzag width is 5mm and maximum stitch length is 4mm. The reverse stitch lever is conveniently placed. The machine is free arm convertible as well. The bobbin is side loading type, which can be an inconvenience for beginners. A sewing work light is provided. The machine weighs just 11 pounds. So you can easily carry it around. A retractable carrying handle is also provided.

Usability

Janome 1017 is a compact sewing machine. It is sturdy, which you normally expect from Janome. The machine is easy to thread. This is not the most user-friendly machine, to be honest. You will read more about it in the limitations section. The foot pedal is quite responsive and the stitch quality is pretty good. The overall operation is very smooth.

Limitations

From the point of view of a beginner Janome 1017 is not an ideal machine. It lacks some of the very basic features that you expect from a modern beginners machine. It lacks features like automatic needle threader, 1-step buttonhole, drop-in bobbin, drop feed dog lever etc. These features are very important for a beginner sewer.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Portable
  • Decent stitch quality

Cons

  • No automatic needle threader
  • No 1-step buttonhole
  • No drop-in bobbin
  • No drop feed dog option

Is It Worth Buying ?

As far as beginners are concerned, Janome 1017 is not the world’s most user-friendly sewing machine. It has its drawbacks (feature wise). But that doesn’t reflect on the stitch quality that much. It will work for basic things like crafting and mending. As a beginner, you tend to overgrow this machine pretty fast.

Alternatives you can consider are Janome 2212 and Brother XL2600I. Janome 2212 is the more expensive option, but it has exceptional stitch quality. Those who bought 2212, love the machine for its quality and durability. 2212 comes with 12 built-in stitches. Feature wise 2212 is more or less similar to 1017.

Brother XL2600I comes in the same price range of Janome 1017 and is far more advanced in features. XL2600I is called the ‘King of Low Cost Sewing Machines’. It is also the best seller in under $100 category. It has 25 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, 1-step buttonhole etc.

Honesty Policy: The above link is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy anything from Amazon using the link above, I will get a small amount in commission to feed my family. You won’t lose any money, Amazon will pay me.

The post Janome 1017 Review appeared first on Best Home Ideas.

Janome DC1018 Review

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Janome DC1018 Computerized Sewing Machine Main Features

  • 18 built-in stitches
  • Programmable needle up/down
  • Locking stitch and reverse stitch button
  • Speed control slider

CLICK HERE to read what other buyers say about Janome DC1018 Computerized Sewing Machine.

Janome DC1018 Review

Janome DC1018 reviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : HIGH

DC1018 is the least expensive computerized machine you can get from Janome in U.S. Janome has been facing stiff competition from other brands like Brother and Singer in computerized sewing machines category. Brother and Singer have computerized sewing machines for even $150, so it forced Janome to come up with a budget computerized machine. Generally Janome machines with same features of a Singer or Brother will cost $25 – $75 more. I think Janome is trying to play different with DC1018. The pricing seems to be perfect for me.

Janome DC1018 comes with 18 built-in stitches, which includes 3 one-step buttonholes as well. It features an automatic needle threader to save eye strain, especially for older people. There is a sewing start/stop button. The speed control slider gives you full control over the sewing speed. Sewing at low speed setting works the best for beginners initially, you can crank it up once you are confident. It has a strong motor capable of dealing with all kinds of fabric.

The programmable needle up/down button is a huge blessing for quilters like me. It literally acts like an extra hand. The locking stitch button is essential for securing the stitches, so that they don’t come loose. An easy reverse sewing button is provided right above the start/stop button. The auto-declutch bobbin winder prevents bobbin overfilling.  The LCD screen is quite good. Quick selection buttons are provided for stitch selection. Stitch selection and adjustments are very easy to understand. Even people over 60 won’t have any trouble using it. The maximum stitch width is 7mm and stitch length is 5mm.

The thread tension can be manually adjusted. The presser feet is slide-on type, so you don’t need to run for a screw driver every time you want to change the feet (this is not a huge thing as even $100 machines now come with slide-on presser feet). The machine is free arm convertible. DC1018 can be set for free-motion quilting by dropping the feed dogs ( a lever is provided for that).  The extra-high presser foot lifter on this machine, gives excellent clearance to work with multiple layers of fabric. The top drop-in bobbin adds to the ease of use.

Janome DC1018 comes with an included softcover. The box also includes a bonus kit, which according to Janome is worth $25. Weighing under 14 pounds, you can consider it as a lightweight sewing machine.

Usability

Janome hasn’t done any compromise on quality, even though the machine comes with a budget price tag (one thing I have always noticed with Janome is the excellent build quality of their machines). You will get a sense of quality once you see this machine. The machine has a reasonable variety of stitches on-board. Even impressive is its stitch quality. I have sewn 6 layers of denim on this machine and it went through effortlessly. I always test machines with multiple layers of denim, you can tell something about the quality of the machine from that. The machine does an equally good job on lightweight fabrics as well.

Limitations

I always wanted Janome machines to feature lot more built-in stitches. DC1018 is no exception.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Easy to use
  • Feature rich

Cons

  • Less number of built-in stitches

Is It Worth Buying ?

Considering the price and quality, I guess Janome DC1018 won’t be a bad deal at all. It has all the features you want as a beginner. Also the quality is excellent. It will be a great choice for those who are looking for a budget Janome computerized sewing machine.

Honesty Policy: The above link is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy anything from Amazon using the link above, I will get a small amount in commission to feed my family. You won’t lose any money, Amazon will pay me.

The post Janome DC1018 Review appeared first on Best Home Ideas.

Janome DC2015 Review

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Janome DC2015 Main Features

  • 60 built-in stitches
  • Programmable needle up/down
  • Locking stitch button
  • Easy reverse
  • Sewing start/stop and speed control slider

CLICK HERE to read what other buyers say about Janome DC2015.

Janome DC2015 Review

Janome DC2015 ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : HIGH

Every year Janome comes with a DC series machine with the year as model number. This has been the trend since 2010. All DC series machines were good quality, high performance machines (that is the reason why they made it a habit of rolling out a new model every year under the year number). However the main drawback of these machines were that there weren’t a lot of changes. For eg: If you take DC2013 and DC2014, the only change was in color, all other features are exactly the same (same was the case with DC2012). There were even a considerable difference in price across each model (that too just for a different color).

Year 2015 has arrived and it seems Janome has tried something different. Janome DC2015 is the most unique of all DC series machines. It comes in bright red color and there are a few changes in features as well.  DC2015 has 60 built-in stitches including 6 one-step buttonholes (remember DC2014 had only 50 built-in stitches and 3 one-step buttonholes). DC2015 is a full fledged computerized sewing machine. There are lot of changes when compared to other DC machines. The LCD screen has gone larger and stitch navigation button has changed. The workspace on this machine is pretty impressive, it measures 6.2″ x 4.7″.

The machine comes with an automatic needle threader for easy threading. Top drop-in bobbin with clear cover is nice for keeping an eye on the thread supply. Reverse sewing button though small, is conveniently placed. Thread tension is automatic, but it can be overridden. The maximum stitch width is 7mm, which is pretty good for a machine at this price. The maximum stitch length is 5mm. The feed system is 7-point, which is really good to ensure consistent stitch quality ( I wonder why Janome didn’t use SFS for this machine, it does make a slight difference in stitch quality).

Janome DC2015 packs advanced features like programmable needle up/down. This is essential for quilters. The needle is set to finish in down position as default. You can change it to up position for pivoting or other stuffs. The machine is free arm and drop feed convertible. A total of 15 needle positions are available on this machine. There is an easy to use locking stitch button, with which you can lock the stitches at the beginning and end with just the push of a button.

Since the inside frame of Janome DC2015 is made of metal, the machine is slightly on the heavier side. It weighs 18.2 pounds. An extra high presser foot lifter offers more clearance while working with multiple layers of fabric. Presser foot pressure can be manually adjusted.

Usability

Like all other DC series machines, Janome DC2015 is an excellent performer. It also has the luxury of few extra stitches as well. The operation is pretty quiet. Even impressive is its performance with denim. It doesn’t seem to struggle at all, even if you throw 8 layers of denim at it. The speed control slider gives you good control over the sewing speed. The build quality is excellent and it doesn’t look flimsy at all. The machine is very easy to thread and use. I don’t think beginners will have any trouble using this machine. Overall, I am very happy with the performance of the machine.

Limitations

The automatic needle threader needs couple of attempts to get used to. Other than that, I am pretty satisfied with the machine.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Quality stitches
  • Solid machine
  • Excellent looks (though it doesn’t really matter for a sewing machine)

Cons

  • Automatic needle threader needs practice

Is It Worth Buying ?

Yes, especially when you consider the price. Currently there is not a lot of difference between the price of DC2015 and DC2014. So to get a better featured and updated machine at the price of an older version is pretty cool. You won’t be complaining about the quality of the machine for sure.

Honesty Policy: The above link is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy anything from Amazon using the link above, I will get a small amount in commission to feed my family. You won’t lose any money, Amazon will pay me.

The post Janome DC2015 Review appeared first on Best Home Ideas.

Janome 41012 Review

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Janome 41012 Main Features

  • 12 built-in stitches
  • 4-step buttonhole
  • Free arm
  • Drop feed
  • Extra high presser foot lifter

CLICK HERE to read what other buyers say about Janome 41012.

Janome 41012 Review

Janome 41012 ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : LOW

Janome New Home 41012 is a very basic sewing machine for beginners. The machine has 12 built-in stitches including a 4-step buttonhole. It has some basic utility and straight stitches. Being a mechanical sewing machine, stitch selection is done by turning dials. A separate dial is provided for adjusting the stitch length. ZigZag width can be adjusted up to 5mm and stitch length up to 4mm. Thread tension needs to be adjusted manually. It has an extra high presser foot lifter to accommodate bulky fabrics.

The bobbin is front loading type. A manual thread cutter is also provided. The machine is drop feed and free arm convertible. An incandescent lamp is provided for illuminating the work space. The presser feet is snap-on type. The thing I really like about this machine is its powerful motor. The motor is capable of delivering 860 stitches per minute, which clearly puts it in the league of $180 machines at least in terms of motor strength.

Usability

Janome 41012 weighs just 13 pounds, so it is very easy to carry around. Retractable carry handle makes this machine an ideal foil for sewing classes. But the good things end there. The machine is not great for a creative person. The stitch quality is not that great and the machine seems to struggle with multiple layers of fabric. The stitch quality really disappoints me as you normally expect excellent results from Janome machines.

Limitations

There are lot to talk about. Feature wise, the machine seems to belong to the last decade. It doesn’t have an automatic needle threader to make threading easy. It doesn’t have a 1-step buttonhole for easy buttonhole making. It doesn’t have a drop-in bobbin, instead it comes with a front loading one which requires the accessory compartment to be removed, every time you need to change the bobbin. Now, these are the features that I consider as ‘must have’ for a beginner sewing machine.

Pros

  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Poor stitch quality
  • Lack of basic features

Verdict

I am not really impressed with the quality or features offered by Janome 41012. So I can’t really recommend it to beginners. The best alternative Janome machine that comes in the price range is the 2212. It is a quality machine for sure, but it doesn’t have a lot of features. For example, it doesn’t feature an automatic needle threader which is a default feature even on some $80 machines. So if you can overlook those features, 2212 is a good beginners machine in terms of stitch quality.

If you are looking for a feature rich, quality machine, the best bet is to go for Brother XL2600I. It is the undisputed king of under $100 sewing machines. It has 25 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, 1-step buttonhole etc. It is less expensive than Janome 41012 as well. The combination of features and quality works well in the case of Brother XL2600I.

Honesty Policy: The above link is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy anything from Amazon using the link above, I will get a small amount in commission to feed my family. You won’t lose any money, Amazon will pay me.

The post Janome 41012 Review appeared first on Best Home Ideas.

Janome JW5622 Review

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Janome JW5622 Main Features

  • 22 built-in stitches
  • 4-step buttonhole
  • Free arm
  • Drop feed

Janome JW5622 Review

Janome JW5622 ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : LOW

Before going to the review, let me remind you of one thing, only refurbished Janome JW5622’s are readily available in stores across US. It is very hard to find a new one. So if you are not interested in refurbished machines (personally I am not), you will be better of going with some alternatives like the Janome HD1000 (which is definitely on the expensive side, but you are rest assured of its quality). Now let us focus back on JW5622.

Janome JW5622 comes with 22 built-in stitches and a 4-step buttonhole. It is a mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners. Stitch selection, stitch width and length adjustments are done with the help of dials. Thread tension adjustment is also done with the help of a dial. Reverse sewing button is over sized and conveniently placed. The machine comes with a side loading bobbin, which clearly is an outdated piece of technology. It is difficult for beginners to deal with machines that have side loading bobbins. Janome JW5622 features an extra high presser foot lifter for handling multiple layers of fabric. Drop feed option is provided for doing free-motion sewing.

Limitations

The machine doesn’t feature an automatic needle threader which is pretty common even on $80 sewing machines nowadays. This means you will have to rely too much on the power of your eye sight to thread the needle.

The buttonhole is not 1-step which makes it hard for beginners. Another not so user friendly feature is the side loading bobbin which we have already talked about.

Is It Worth Buying ?

Considering the beginner friendly features that Janome JW5622 lacks, I really can’t recommend this machine to you. The alternatives you can consider are Janome HD1000 and Janome 2212. 2212 is a basic sewing machine with 12 built-in stitches and excellent stitch quality. Whereas HD1000 has 14 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader etc. HD1000 is a heavy duty model and it can sew through anything that you throws at it. It is a true workhorse. But I have to confess that it costs much more than Janome JW5622. So if budget is a concern, Janome 2212 would be the better option.

The post Janome JW5622 Review appeared first on Best Home Ideas.

Janome JW7630 Review

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Janome JW7630 Main Features

  • 30 built-in stitches
  • Programmable needle up/down
  • Locking stitch button
  • Start/stop button and speed control slider
  • 7-point feed system

CLICK HERE to read what other buyers say about Janome JW7630.

Janome JW7630 Review

Janome JW7630 ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : HIGH

Janome JW7630 is a computerized sewing machine. This model belongs to the ‘New Home’ series of sewing machines rolled out by Janome. It is priced much less than other Janome machines with similar features. There is at least $50 price difference between Janome JW7630 and other similar machines from Janome. This price difference make this machine worth having a look.  The machine is designed primarily for beginners. It has 30 built-in stitches including 6 one-step buttonholes that can sew perfectly sized buttonholes. The machine features an automatic needle threader for saving eye strain. It has a top drop-in bobbin with clear cover. The clear cover is really handy as you can keep an eye on the thread supply.

Stitch length and width can be easily adjusted by push of a button. Plus and minus buttons are provided for adjusting stitch length and width. Programmable needle up/down, locking stitch button, sewing start/stop button and speed control slider are the premium features you get on Janome JW7630. The needle up/down works exactly like an extra hand and it is vital for quilters. The speed control slider gives you good control over the sewing speed. Slower speeds will work the best for beginner. If you want to sew it the conventional way, you can always use the foot pedal.

The two digit LED screen is not the most advanced in the category, but it does its job quite well. The stitch numbers are displayed in large size, which is always nice. You can also view the stitch length and width settings on the screen. Janome JW7630 comes with a 7-piece feed system which ensures consistent stitch quality across different types of fabric. The drop feed system lets you do some free-motion quilting or stuffs like that. The machine is free arm capable, so you can sew pant legs and collars with ease. Auto-declutch bobbin winder is another useful feature. The machine weighs over 20 pounds, which is a clear indication that heavy duty metal frame is used inside. The machine comes with 25 year limited warranty cover. A hard cover also comes included.

Usability

Janome JW7630 is a solid machine. The machine is very easy to set up. The machine is very easy to thread, there is nothing confusing about it. The large sewing space is good enough to accommodate large projects. Even though this machine is designed for beginners, it will do the job for advanced sewers as well (it does have some advanced features on board). The stitch variety is pretty good. There are some good looking decorative stitches. The machine runs quietly (which might be a priority for moms with small kids. There are no vibrations at all). The stitches are nice and even. The stitch quality is commendable. The smooth operation of this machine really impressed me. The feed system of Janome JW7630 is the best you can get for the price.

Limitations

The automatic needle threader might need a couple of attempts to get used to.

Pros

  • Good variety of stitches
  • Solid and stable
  • Quiet
  • Excellent stitch quality
  • Durable

Cons

  • Slightly tricky automatic needle threader

Is It Worth Buying?

The first thing that will catch your eye is its reasonable price tag. It is an absolute value for money package. For the price, you can’t ask for a better Janome machine. The quality is excellent and the price is even better.

Honesty Policy: The above link is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy anything from Amazon using the link above, I will get a small amount in commission to feed my family. You won’t lose any money, Amazon will pay me.

The post Janome JW7630 Review appeared first on Best Home Ideas.


Janome MyLock 634D Review

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Janome MyLock 634D Main Features

  • 2,3 or 4 thread overlock
  • Lay-in thread tension
  • Lower looper threader
  • Thread cutter
  • Easy rolled hem changeover

CLICK HERE to read what other buyers say about Janome MyLock 634D.

Janome MyLock 634D Review

Janome MyLock 634D ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : HIGH

MyLock 634D is a 2,3 or 4 thread overlock machine. It has 2 needles. The machine is slightly expensive but it offers quality worth every cent. It has color-coded thread guides for easy threading. Self threading lower looper is a premium feature offered on this machine. A lever guides the thread, making threading effortless. You can quickly covert to rolled hem without changing the needle plate (this is another handy feature).

MyLock 634D comes with differential feed mechanism which prevents unnecessary waving, puckering or fluting. It also has lay-in tension. Other features are

  • 0.5 – 2.2 differential feed ratio
  • Easy upper knife release
  • Adjustable cutting width: 3.1 – 5.1mm
  • Front and back needle guard
  • Retractable upper knife

Usability

Janome MyLock 634D is very user-friendly. It is very easy to thread or re-thread (the machine comes pre-threaded). It has to be one of the easiest sergers to re-thread (if thread is not broke), just tie the new thread to the old one and it runs through smoothly. Issues like thread breaking or jamming has never been observed (but if you do, re-threading will take some time). I expected this to be louder, but it is quieter than what I expected (a welcome feature for sure). The machine works exceptionally well with thick fabrics, which is something that I always look for in a serger. The tension is perfect right from the factory itself. The stitch quality is very impressive. The build quality is very good (which you normally expect from Janome).

Limitations

It might be difficult to thread the machine from scratch. You must read the user manual before your first attempt. You would be better of watching some YouTube videos as this machine doesn’t come with an included DVD.

Pros

  • Differential feed
  • Good on thick fabrics
  • Excellent stitch quality
  • Easy to use
  • Easy rolled hem changeover

Cons

  • Difficult to re-thread after thread break

Is It Worth Buying ?

Some might consider MyLock 634D as a bit expensive. In my opinion, the price is not that bad considering the quality on offer. The ability of this machine to handle different fabrics of varying thickness is its biggest plus point. Overall, it is a very good serger to consider, especially if you own a sewing business.

Honesty Policy: The above link is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy anything from Amazon using the link above, I will get a small amount in commission to feed my family. You won’t lose any money, Amazon will pay me.

The post Janome MyLock 634D Review appeared first on Best Home Ideas.

Janome Schoolmate S-3015 Review

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Janome Schoolmate S-3015 Main Features

  • 15 built-in stitches
  • Top drop-in bobbin
  • Extra-high presser foot lifter
  • Free arm
  • Drop feed

Janome Schoolmate S-3015 Review

Janome Schoolmate S-3015 ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : LOW

S-3015 is a basic beginners sewing machine. It isn’t a popular model in US at least for now, so its availability is still under question. Janome Schoolmate S-3015 isn’t a feature rich sewing machine by any stretch of imagination, it is good enough for basic sewing tasks only. It comes with 15 built-in stitches including a 4-step buttonhole. It has a beginner friendly top drop-in bobbin with clear cover. The clear cover is a very useful thing as you can keep an eye on the bobbin thread supply.

Stitch selection on Janome Schoolmate S-3015 is done by turning a dial. The maximum stitch width is 5mm and stitch length is 4mm. Reverse stitch lever is conveniently located and is of reasonable size for easy engaging. The machine is free arm convertible for sewing tubular areas. Drop feed lever can be engaged for free-motion sewing.

Thread tension needs to be adjusted manually. Snap-on presser feet are easy to change. Extra-high presser foot lifter is provided for accommodating multiple layers of fabrics. Presser foot pressure is adjustable. There is a manual thread cutter on the side of the machine. A built-in carrying handle adds to portability. The machine comes with a hard cover as well.

Usability

You can’t call Janome Schoolmate S-3015 as a very good beginners machine as it lacks some basic features that you get on sub $100 machines (we will discuss that in the limitations section). As far as the build quality is concerned, it is satisfactory. Janome machines are popular for its build quality and S-3015 is not very different. The machine weighs 16.2 pounds, which suggests that it is made of quality material (aluminum alloy construction) not just mere plastic. The variety of stitch options are adequate for an out and out beginner, but it will not excite an experienced sewer.  The stitch quality is pretty good as well. The available work space accounts to W 6.5″x H 4.5″. A built-in storage compartment adds to the practicality of the machine.

Limitations

In a good user-friendly beginners sewing machine, you normally expect 3 basic features, an automatic needle threader, 1-step buttonhole and top drop-in bobbin. Even though Schoolmate S-3015 has a top drop-in bobbin, it misses out on the other two. Automatic needle threader is a big time saver. Making buttonholes in 1-step is much more easier than making them in 4 steps. If Janome had included both these features, they would have had a winner.

Is It Worth Buying?

Considering the features that Janome Schoolmate S-3015 misses out, combined with the high price that you normally associate with Janome machines, I think this is not quite the machine that I would recommend. I think there are better alternatives like the Brother XM2701 out in the market. Machines like XM2701 are so rich in features that they can easily overshadow Schoolmate S-3015.

Brother XM2701 is the best beginners machine in the sub $100 price category. It has excellent stitch quality and has features like 27 built-in stitches, 1-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, top drop-in bobbin etc.

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Janome MyLock 204D Review

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Janome MyLock 204D Main Features

  • 3/4 thread serger
  • Lay in tension
  • Color coded thread path
  • Differential feed

Janome MyLock 204D Review

Janome MyLock 204D ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : LOW

MyLock 204D is a mid range home serger from Janome. It is a 3 or 4 thread serger. The machine is not as popular as Janome 8002D or Brother 1034D for that matter, mainly because of its high price tag. The machine has color coded thread guides for easy threading. It has differential feed with a ratio of 0.5 to 2.2. The cutting width can be adjusted between 3.1mm to 5.1mm. The stitch length can be adjusted between 1-4mm.

You can quickly change MyLock 204D to rolled hem. The machine even comes with two preset tensions for hassle free stitching. Rolled hem and regular serging gets different tensions. The upper knife is retractable for flat lock stitch. Presser feet is snap-on type. The presser foot pressure is adjustable. The motor is powerful and can deliver 1300 stitches/min which is on par with most home sergers in US today. A needle threader is provided. There is a thread cutter as well.

Usability

Janome MyLock 204D is a very compact serger, it doesn’t take up a lot of space. It may take a couple of tries to thread this machine, but it is very easy once you get the hang of it. The machine handles thick and thin fabrics reasonably well.

Limitations

Thread breaking is an issue reported by some users, which seems to have dented its reputation.

It is expensive when compared to its competitors.

Is It Worth Buying?

I can’t quite say that Janome MyLock 204D is a frustration free serger. One thing I can say is that, it is definitely not in the league of Brother 1034D or Janome 8002D, which are less expensive sergers.

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Janome New Home 49360 Review

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Janome New Home 49360 Main Features

  • 60 built-in stitches
  • Start/stop button
  • Speed control slider
  • Programmable needle up/down
  • Automatic needle threader and thread cutter
  • Locking stitch button

Janome New Home 49360 Review

Janome New Home 49360 ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : HIGH

New Home 49360, have you heard this name before? Not many would have, because in US, it is only available through one dealer. Even though it is not very easily available, people still are running for it, so there must be something good about it. There is no question about the fact that, it is beyond the budget of an average beginner (well, in most cases). So what we want to know is, whether the dollars we shell out on this machine will be worth or not.

Janome 49360 is a computerized sewing machine. Janome projects this machine as a quilting machine, but it is capable of doing all other works as well (The whole quilting thing is just a marketing gimmick). The machine comes with 60 built-in stitches including 6 one-step buttonholes. The machine has a top drop-in bobbin with clear cover (which makes sense, as you can keep an eye on the thread supply). Markings on the needle plate is nicely done. There are even angular markings and markings on bobbin cover.

Janome 49360 comes with 7-piece box feed system which pulls the fabric nice and straight. The box feed adds a lot to the stitch quality and consistency. I really like the LCD screen of this machine. It has a premium feel to it, with blue illumination. The stitch chart is printed on the machine itself. Stitch selection is done by pressing the arrow keys. Even though the machine comes up with optimal stitch width and length, you can always override them. 7mm is maximum zigzag stitch width and 5mm is the maximum zigzag stitch length.

To justify its slightly high price tag, Janome 49360 comes with a lot of automatic features. The automatic needle threader obviously is something that you normally expect, but this machine also comes with an automatic thread cutter (Now, this is something that you will find only in expensive sewing machines). You don’t need to reach out for the scissors to cut the thread, instead push the automatic thread cutter button and pull the fabric out.

Janome 49360 has presser foot pressure control which is really handy while sewing lightweight fabrics. Adjusting the pressure applied by the presser foot prevents stretching (this adds a lot to the stitch quality). The locking stitch button locks and finishes the stitch (the pattern won’t be stopped in the middle). The programmable needle up/down is absolutely useful while quilting. It is handy while pivoting.

A drop feed dog lever is provided to do free-motion quilting. The sewing start/stop button and speed control slider lets you sew without using the foot pedal. The speed control has slow, medium and fast speed settings. The reverse sewing button is conveniently placed as well. An accessory storage compartment is provided, which on removal makes the machine ready for free arm sewing. The machine comes with a hard cover as well.

Even though Janome 49360 is packed with features, it is very light in weight. It weighs just 12 pounds, which makes it an easy candidate for sewing classes.

Usability

The machine is easy to set up. The instructions are very clear. Janome 49360 is a very smooth sewing machine. It operates quietly as well (one of the quietest machines around). The build quality is excellent (the high price is justified in that department). It has a nice variety of built-in stitches. The stitch quality is very impressive. The machine doesn’t struggle with multiple layers of thick fabrics. Its motor is powerful enough to go through any type of fabric. This machine is portable, thanks to its light weight. One good thing is that, this machine is not picky about thread. You can use most kinds of thread on this machine.

Limitations

As I have said earlier, Janome 49360 is slightly on the expensive side. Other than that, it is a wonderful sewing machine.

Pros

  • Feature packed
  • Excellent build quality
  • Quality stitches
  • Smooth and quiet operation
  • Portable

Cons

  • Availability
  • Slightly high price

Is It Worth Buying?

Yes, if you are okay with the price. As far as performance and quality is concerned, Janome 49360 is an absolute gem. It looks premium and it sews quality stitches. It is definitely a machine to consider.

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Janome Skyline S5 Review

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Janome Skyline S5 Main Features

  • 170 built-in stitches
  • Sewing start/stop and speed control slider
  • Programmable needle up/down
  • Locking stitch button
  • Automatic needle threader and thread cutter

Janome Skyline S5 Review

janome Skyline S5 review

Best Home Ideas Recommendation Level : HIGH

Skyline S5 is an expensive sewing machine. So you need to be absolutely sure about its quality before buying it. Currently it is available only at Janome retail stores. You will have a hard time finding it online. This is an advanced sewing machine. So users with some sewing experience will find it easy to use. It doesn’t mean that it is a complicated machine, it is just that beginners will have to go through the learning curve.

Janome Skyline S5 comes with 170 built-in stitches including 10 one-step buttonholes. The stitch selection chart is provided on the lid of the machine. It is a machine designed for quilters. It has a 9 inch arm which is capable of handling large projects. Stitch selection is very easy. The LCD screen is of reasonable size and it is backlit (you expect that for the price). You just need to enter the stitch number and the machine will display the optimum stitch length and width and also which presser foot to use. You can override the machine set stitch width and length by pressing the arrow buttons. The maximum stitch width is 9mm and stitch length is 5mm (9mm stitch width gives a nice range to work with in comparison to the common 7mm machines).

All the stitches are categorized into different modes. For eg: Mode 2 for quilting stitches. You can select the stitch category by pressing the mode button. Top drop-in bobbin makes it easy to change the bobbin (it is a huge time saver, trust me). The clear cover for bobbin, lets you keep an eye on the thread supply as well. Tension is automatically set on this machine.

Being an advanced computerized sewing machine, Skyline S5 has sewing start/stop and speed control slider for sewing without the foot pedal. The programmable needle up/down button which is vital for quilters is also provided. The locking stitch button locks the stitch for you in a snap. The automatic needle threader makes threading easy for you. There is another premium feature called the automatic thread cutter, which cuts the remaining thread by the push of a button.

One thing I really liked about this Janome machine is that it is well lit. It has 6 LED bulbs which illuminate the sewing area and the work area (In most sewing machines, you will get lights for the sewing area, not for the entire arm). Janome’s superior feed system ensures consistent fabric feeding. A whopping 91 needle positions are available on Skyline S5 (that’s a lot to be honest).

The machine is free arm capable. You just need to remove the built-in accessory storage compartment. The drop feed control can be used for free-motion quilting. The control is located on the the right side of the machine.

Usability

You will love Janome Skyline S5 for its quietness. The machine is very stable at high speeds. As you expect from Janome, the build quality is top notch. There is nothing to worry in that department. The stitches look very good. There is a good variety of stitches on offer and in real they look exactly like the ones in the picture. It is very easy to thread the machine. Even beginners will find it very easy, you just need to follow the thread paths and numbers. The machine goes through thick layers of fabrics with ease. It seems the machine is designed to handle tough fabrics.

Is It Worth Buying?

The quality of Janome Skyline S5 was never in question. It is the price that worries me. Generally Janome machines are tad expensive than a Brother or a Singer, and Skyline S5 is no exception. So my advice will be, have a look at the price and if it is okay for you, go for it, because it is a quality machine.

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Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX Review

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Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX Main Features

  • Seam Tightening System (STS)
  • 1, 2, or 3 needle operation
  • Differential feed ratio 0.5 to 2.25
  • Foot pressure adjustment

CLICK HERE to read what other users say about Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX.

Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX Review

Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : HIGH

There aren’t many quality coverstitch machines around. Apart from the Brother 2340CV, not many machines made it big. Cover Pro 1000CPX hasn’t yet got it, but it is trying its best to top the sales chart. One downside of this Janome machine is its price. Home sewers will always opt for the Brother machine as it is very affordable. Even though Cover Pro 1000CPX is expensive, those who used it will always talk about its quality. The machine packs quite a few features as well.

Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX comes with differential feed, which can be adjusted with the knob provided on the side of the machine. It has a differential feed ratio of 0.5 to 2.25. The stitch length can be adjusted between 1-4mm. The stitch width is

  • With 2 needles – 6mm (standard), 3mm (narrow)
  • With 3 needles – 6mm (3mm + 3mm)

The machine has 1,2,3 needle operation. There is a side thread cutter for cutting the remaining thread. The motor is powerful and it can deliver 1000 stitches/min ( I think it has the same motor used in some of Janome’s sergers, not sure about that though). The stitch reference chart is provided in front of the machine. The machine can do

  • 1 needle, 2 thread chain stitch
  • 2 needle, 3 thread cover stitch
  • 3 needle, 4 thread triple cover stitch

You can use up to 4 spools of thread on Cover Pro 1000CPX. The work space is quite large, it measures 4” x 5.5” which adds to the versatility of this machine. The machine has free arm as well. One highlight of this machine is that it has Janome’s exclusive Seam Tightening System (STS), which uses a spring instead of a looper tension dial thereby reducing thread loosening, resulting in tight and perfect stitches especially on thick fabrics like denim. Presser foot pressure can be adjusted. The machine weighs 19 pounds. It comes with a dust cover as well.

Usability

Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX is one of the easiest machines to thread. The diagrams and color codes make things easy for you. While doing coverstitch, you might need to remove needles every now and then. You can remove the needles in a snap, even people with no sewing experience can do it. One thing I noticed about this machine is that it has to be designed by an experienced sewer (or a group for that matter), because every control and knobs are conveniently placed. Everything will happen in a single motion after couple of days of use. Nothing is awkward about this machine.

It has a well written, easy to understand user manual (which I believe is the most basic thing that every sewing machine manufacturer should provide), which makes everything else easier. The stitch quality is very good, in fact it is almost the same as what you get on store bought items.

Limitations

Some users have reported that the machine skipped stitches while sewing denim which seems to be an operator error as I haven’t encountered any such issue. I have put the machine to test for long work hours and it did perform well.

Pros

  • Overall build quality is good
  • User friendly
  • Quality stitches

Cons

  • Expensive

Is It Worth Buying?

Quality wise, I can’t find many faults with Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX. What I am worried about is the price. It is very clear that Janome aims home sewers with this machine, but the price doesn’t suggest so. Other than the price, I have all praises for this machine.

Honesty Policy: The above link is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy anything from Amazon using the link above, I will get a small amount in commission to feed my family. You won’t lose any money, Amazon will pay me.

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Janome 525s Review

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Janome 525s Main Features

  • 24 built-in stitches
  • 1-step buttonhole
  • Top drop-in bobbin
  • Automatic needle threader

Janome 525s Review

Janome 525s ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : HIGH

First of all, let me tell you one thing. Janome 525s is not that popular in US. Only a handful of stores have this machine for sale in US. However 525s is a very popular sewing machine in UK. It has made its name there. Going by the features, it is very clear that this is a machine for beginners. So expect its price to be similar to that of a typical Janome beginner machine sold in USA. The reason I am saying this is because this machine is not widely available, so some stores may put a heavy price tag on it.

Coming to the features, Janome 525s comes with 24 built-in stitches including a 1-step buttonhole. 525s is a mechanical sewing machine, so stitch selection is done by turning dials. The stitch chart is provided on the right hand side of the machine. Stitch width can be set to a maximum of 5mm. Stitch length is also adjustable via the dial just below the stitch selection dial (max 4mm). The machine is equipped with an automatic needle threader to save eye strain.

The reverse sewing lever is also placed in an easy to access location. The presser foot pressure is adjustable. It can be adjusted by turning the knob on the side of the machine. This is a feature that you may not find in all beginners’ machines. It has a top drop-in bobbin, which makes it easy to change bobbin. The clear cover also lets you keep an eye on bobbin thread supply.

Janome 525s comes with a built-in work light which illuminates the work space reasonably well. There is a built-in storage compartment to store your accessories. You can remove the storage compartment and use the machine for sewing circular areas like cuffs and collars (free arm mode). The snap-on type presser feet is easy to change. Drop feed dog switch can be used to do free-motion works. A manual thread cutter is provided to cut the remaining thread.

Janome 525s weighs close to 15 pounds, which is a clear indication that less plastic is used for its construction. The build quality is very good. The machine can do twin needle sewing as well. To make it portable, there is a built-in carry handle. The motor is powerful and can deliver 820 stitches/min. 525s comes with a hard cover as well.

Usability

Janome 525s is a very quiet machine. In fact it is one of the quietest Janome machines I have ever come across. The needle plate markings take out the guess work. While sewing thick fabrics like denim, make sure that you use the right needles. The machine performs very well with multiple layers of fabric. I have sewn up to 6 layers of upholstery fabric and it went through effortlessly. 8 layers of denim won’t be a problem as long as you use the right needle. 6 layers of fleece was a breeze. Overall, I am very much impressed with the variety of fabrics it can handle. The stitches are not only tight but also consistent. As I have said earlier, the build quality of this machine is very good. The machine is not too light or not to heavy (still there are some plastic parts).

Limitations

The automatic needle threader may require couple of attempts to get used. It is an easy job once you get the hang of it.

Pros

  • Build quality
  • Excellent stitch quality
  • Good performance on multiple layers
  • Quiet machine

Cons

  • Tricky needle threader

Is It Worth Buying?

Now I know why Janome 525s became so popular in UK. It is a machine that oozes class. Unfortunately, the machine is not widely available in US, which is a shame. Even if you manage to find one, watch the price and make sure that it is not over priced. If you can’t find a reasonably priced Janome 525s, then the best alternative I can suggest is the Janome 7330, which has 30 built-in stitches. It may be slightly on the expensive side, but the quality is rest assured.

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Janome Memory Craft 300E Review

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Janome MC 300E Main Features

  • 90 built-in embroidery designs
  • 5.5″ x 7.9″ maximum embroidery area
  • 3 fonts
  • Automatic needle threader
  • Top drop-in bobbin
  • Built-in memory

Janome MC 300E Review

janome 300e reviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : MODERATE

MC 300E is an embroidery only machine. It is not a widely available model by any stretch of imagination. It is very hard to find a new one in a store. I think it has been discontinued by Janome (not 100% sure about this). The machine comes with 90 built-in embroidery designs. You can import designs from your PC via the ATA PC card. Once you insert the ATA card, you can select the stitch and stitch it out. There are 3 fonts available on the machine. You can do 2 and 3 letter monograms. You can store designs in the machine memory or the card for future use.

The LCD screen of MC 300E is large and backlit. You can combine multiple designs on this machine, with the add function. The maximum embroidery area available is 5.5″ x 7.9″. Two hoops come included, Large 5.5″ x 7.9″ and Standard 5″ x 4.3″. The design size can be changed to 90%, 100%, 110%, 120%. You can also rotate the designs in 45 degree increments. Vertical and horizontal flipping is also possible.

Out of the 90 built-in designs, 10 are for large hoop, 60 for the Standard Hoop and remaining 20 are combination designs. The automatic needle threader, threads the needle without any trouble. The top drop-in bobbin makes placing the bobbin effortless. The Janome MC 300E’s motor can deliver 400-650 stitches/min, which keeps it on par with all the competitors.

Usability

LCD touch screen is large and responsive. One thing that will work for MC 300E is its stitch quality, especially with smaller designs where most of its competitors struggled to make a mark. The build quality is top notch, which you normally expect from Janome. Even though 300E misses out on certain features (listed in limitations section), it does come with some useful ones like the alarm that goes off when you are running out of bobbin thread.

Limitations

Even though MC 300E supports ATA PC card, it is not as easy to use like machines with USB connectivity.

As far as monogramming is concerned, the maximum you can have is 3 letters, which is not ideal for monogramming a name or a phrase.

Stitch selection is not by entering a stitch number or by direct selection, instead you need to go through different pages and find the stitch you want. There are 90 odd designs and you may have to go through multiple pages.

Automatic thread cutter is another feature that misses out.

Pros

  • Build quality
  • Stitch quality
  • Large screen

Cons

  • No USB connectivity
  • Stitch selection is not that easy
  • Availability is a concern

Is It Worth Buying?

Janome MC 300E does miss out on certain features, but if stitch quality is your only concern, this machine can satisfy you. I also feel that this machine is slightly on the expensive side when you compare it with competitors. Moreover the machine is not widely available in US.

Brother PE770 is one alternative you can look at. It has 136 built-in designs, 5″ x 7″ embroidery area, USB connectivity, automatic thread cutter etc. It is one of the best selling embroidery machines in US.

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Janome JW7522 Review

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Janome JW7522 Main Features

  • 22 built-in stitches
  • 1-step buttonhole
  • Automatic needle threader

Janome JW7522 Review

Janome JW7522 ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : MODERATE

Janome JW7522 is a beginners sewing machine. It is a mechanical sewing machine which belongs to the affordable range of sewing machines from Janome. The machine has a simple design with 3 dials in front of the machine. One is for selecting stitch and the other two for adjusting stitch length and width. It comes with 22 built-in stitches (denoted by the last two digits of the model number), which includes a beginner friendly one-step buttonhole.

Janome JW7522 has a conveniently placed reverse stitch lever. The lever is also of decent size, so older people will find it easy to engage. The bobbin is side loading type, which beginners may not like. There is a built-in automatic needle threader to assist you while threading the needle. You can sew cuffs and collars by converting the machine to free arm. You can also use twin needle for sewing. The built-in carry handle adds to portability. The built-in work light illuminates the needle area quite well.

Usability

Janome JW7522 is a very quiet sewing machine. It is quiet even at high sewing speeds. So your sleeping kids won’t have any trouble with it. JW7522 can handle multiple layers of thick fabrics like denim with ease. It’s performance on thick fabrics is commendable (behaves like a typical Janome). The stitch quality on different types of fabrics is very good. The motor is powerful and it can handle any type of fabric (but it is a big no for animal skin). Make sure that you use the right needle. The motor can sew 800 stitches/min. The foot pedal is responsive and you can easily control the sewing speed. The build quality is very good from Janome. The exterior parts are plastic, but the interior is all metal. It is a machine built to last. Janome JW7522 is very stable at high sewing speeds, thanks to the solid construction.

Limitations

Janome JW7522 lacks a top drop-in bobbin which modern day sewers love to have. Unfortunately JW7522 misses out on that feature. Side loading bobbins are hard to change, as you need to remove the side storage compartment.

Those who love free-motion sewing can skip Janome JW7522. Because there is no option to drop feed dogs.

Presser foot pressure is not adjustable, which might cause trouble while quilting.

Pros

  • Good variety of stitches
  • Quiet
  • Excellent on thick fabrics
  • Solid built

Cons

  • No top drop-in bobbin
  • No drop feed dog

Is It Worth Buying?

Yes, Janome JW7522 is not a perfect machine. But it does a great job, even with those limitations. The beautiful stitches that it delivers is one thing that makes this machine worth having a look.  In simple words, JW7522 is a reliable and affordable sewing machine. I am giving this machine a ‘moderate’ recommendation level, just for the beginner friendly features that it misses out.

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Janome 990D Serger Review

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Janome 990D Main Features

  • 3/4 thread serger
  • Differential feed
  • Color coded thread guides
  • Retractable upper knife

Janome 990D Serger Review

Janome 990D Serger ReviewBest Home Ideas Recommendation Level : MODERATE

Janome 990D is an entry level serger. However it is not as popular as the Janome 8002D, which is an excellent serger except for its slightly tricky threading. Anyway, let us concentrate on 990D. It is a 3/4 thread serger. The machine comes with differential feed (Differential feed ratio 0.5 to 2.2). Lay in tension dials and color coded thread guides make threading easy.

One good thing about Janome 990D is that the recommended needles are marked on the machine itself. Switching to rolled hem is effortless, you just need to move the lever to rolled hem mode. The upper knife is retractable. Foot pressure can be adjusted. Presser feet are snap-on type. Stitch length can be adjusted in the range 1-4mm. Cutting width can be adjusted between 3.1mm to 5.1mm. 990D has a powerful motor capable of delivering 1,300 stitches/min.

Usability

The build quality of Janome 990D is quite good, something that you normally expect from Janome. The stitch quality is very good and the machine has enough power to go through multiple layers of bulky fabrics.

Is It Worth Buying?

Even though Janome 990D is a quality machine, I still believe Janome 8002D is a better machine than this one. It has been well received by its users and it is less expensive than 990D. Good track record and better pricing makes Janome 8002D a better deal.

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Janome Jem Gold 660 Lightweight Sewing Machine Review

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Janome sure nailed it when designing the Jem Gold 660. Weighing just 12 lbs. this compact, portable sewing machine comes with the complete functionality that you would usually only expect to see in a full-sized machine. Highlights of the Janome Jem Gold 660 Stitch Features: You may not all the fancy stitches that you see…

Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine Review

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One of the models in a line of affordable machines for beginner sewers, the Janome Magnolia 7318 delivers the same precision and state of the art technology that you can expect from any Janome sewing machine. Smooth stitches, a drop feed system and a neat combination of utility and decorative stitches make this the ideal…
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