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The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
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From: M. Kat
Date: 01-07-2005, 10:57 PM (1 of 19)
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Hello! i'm new to sewing and new to this site. i'm looking to purchase my first sewing machine, and i'm drawn to the janome 659 one-step. there's a local janome dealer who offers classes and is pretty convenient, and it's a price i can afford ($260). (i don't want to spend too much since i'm starting out, and not sure i'll really enjoy sewing.) the only drawbacks are: you cannot adjust the stitch width at all - there are only 3 pre-set zigzag widths. also, there's no needle threader, and i'd have to purchase the hard case. the next janome at this dealer for a higher price is the 6019 for $400, but that's more than i want to spend at this point, and i don't need the decorative stitches. i also tested a babylock pro-line today at another dealer, and from my research (reading lots of forums like this), i'm just not sure babylock, at least on a cheaper machine, is the same quality as janome. the babylock was $299, including carrying case, and had a 4 piece feeddog and needle threader, and more stitches, and you could adjust the width. the dealer location is not quite as convenient. both machines have drop-in horizontal bobbins, which i like. the dealer for the janome offers individual tutorials, and i can come in more than once for training. the dealer for the babylock just offers one scheduled class w/ other purchasers. anyway, for some reason i'm drawn to the janome, but it might just be because of the positive reviews they've gotten. i'm just not sure if i'll be missing out by not having more than 3 zigzag widths (and no adjustment for stretch zigzag width, as i do see myself sewing on knits a lot.) i've test driven all of the above machines, but as a beginner, it's hard to tell. anyway, any advice is helpful. thanks! |
User: M. Kat
Member since: 01-07-2005 Total posts: 2 |
From: mhogie
Date: 01-08-2005, 02:10 AM (2 of 19)
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HI! I'm not a terribly informed person, as I only started sewing about three weeks ago, but my choices also came down to chosing between a Janome and a Babylock, and I have to say, so far, so good with the Babylock I bought. Look for features you like and talk to the people at the place. The Babylock dealer in my area also only has the class that comes with the purchase of the machine, while the Janome, like yours, had other classes as well. Know what I did? I'm taking OTHER classes at the Janome dealership, yet I still bought the Babylock. Just because I didn't decide on their machine doesn't mean they aren't still happy to have me spend money there. But as for which one you'll be happier with, it was suggested to me that you take a test drive - bring material similar to what you think you will use when you work with projects, and ask them to let you try the machine out for yourself. I did have to explain to the one dealership that no, I did not want them to teach me how to sew at that very moment, but I DID want to be able to actually touch the machine and get a feel for how easy it is to operate. The Babylock people actually let me sew a couple of seams on my own, coaching me through what to do next, while the Janome people hardly let me near the foot pedal once she realized I didn't know anything. That kind of attitude really bothered me - I felt like they were only in it for the sale, which is sad, since I was willing to spend quite a chunk of change and was hoping to take several classes there. I'll still take the classes, but I'm not as impressed with the dealership. You could always sign up for a basic sewing course and hold off on buying a machine until after you take the class - that way, you'll know what you're doing when you try out the machines. Also, if you go to the front page of this website, there's links to articles, including one on how to pick a machine out - it's pretty good. Gives good suggestions for things to look for. -Mary |
User: mhogie
Member since: 12-19-2004 Total posts: 13 |
From: Kylnne2
Date: 01-08-2005, 12:35 PM (3 of 19)
| Many of the Janomes and especially the Sears Janome Kenmores come with a video on how to use the machines. Between the video and the instruction book it really shows all one needs to know and it is nice to have the video to refer back to any time one desires or needs to. |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: Chrysantha
Date: 01-08-2005, 09:38 PM (4 of 19)
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Which machine is heavier ?? The heavier the machine, the less plastic and less wear over time....(I belong to 6 sewing/embroidery sites and all of them have bad things to say about Babylock and Brother..it's consistant with all the machines, no matter how much was spent.)
Chrys
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User: Chrysantha
Member since: 09-06-2002 Total posts: 2414 
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From: mhogie
Date: 01-08-2005, 10:19 PM (5 of 19)
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What are the typical problems seen with Babylock machines? If you see my reply to M. Kat, you'll notice that I mention having just bought one based upon my discussions with people here and upon my own testdrive of the machine. I'm very curious as to possible problems I should be keeping an eye out for down the road, especially since so far, it's been a dream - it's been so easy, I've been peicing together quilt blocks left and right, it's such a blast. And my first sewing class isn't until later this week!! I had barely touched a sewing machine before getting this one, so this is pretty impressive - I've picked up manuals for computer components I've never seen before and managed to get the thing working with no problems, but I never thought a sewing machine would be this easy to use as well. Read the manual, and off I went! But no one had info on potential problems when I asked here at that time, while I was still doing my research, and I just really loved the feel of the Babylock Quilter's choice machine. What problems have you heard of with Babylock machines? I'm sure those could really make a difference in M. Kat's research. Thanks, Mary |
User: mhogie
Member since: 12-19-2004 Total posts: 13 |
From: soverysewey
Date: 01-09-2005, 12:51 AM (6 of 19)
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I own two Brother machines and they are fantastic machines! They are both Pacesetters, a pc6000 and a pc6500. They are both heavier than any of the Janomes I have looked at and that is the first thing I do, lift the machine. Not because of the plastic factor but because I just like a heavier machine. Mine weigh about 25 pounds each.Yes, they do have some plastic in them. Having worked in machine shops I can tell you that there are some plastics that are sturdier and more durable than metal in certain applications so it does not bother me to see some plastic in the machines.New plastics are used in aircraft and cars why not my sewing machine? That is not as issue to me unless it is all plastic inside or really cheaply made. I was suprised at how cheap the Janomes felt to me after having my Brothers.So I imagine it is a matter of taste as well as construction when it comes to a machine.  I think the lower end machines of any brand are not as good as the high end ones. A good mid range of any brand is almost always better than a low end. But not always. There are no definates in the sewing machine world from what I can tell.
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User: soverysewey
Member since: 12-19-2003 Total posts: 56 |
From: Kylnne2
Date: 01-09-2005, 05:45 AM (7 of 19)
| I really don't think weight has anything to do with quality. 2 of my sewing machines are Janome and 1 is heavy and one is not. I own a mid line Pfaff. It is fairly heavy but light enough to tote. I feel there can be lemons in every company and some models are better than others in certain companies. I like seeing the reviews at PatternReview.com and also the threads on SewingWorld where knowledgeable users discuss their many likes and dislikes about different models, much like this site. Some owners are very brand loyal. I find it surprising that it is the newer machines that cost in the thousands of dollars that seem to be having so many bugs that need to be worked out. BTW a local dealer told me that when it comes to repairs it is usually the midline machines that need less repair no matter the brand. He said what he sees coming back in for work are the TOL's and BOL's. I have always purchased middle of the line and had machines that lasted and passed them down to daughters and daughters in laws and grand daughters. But just recently before buying my present machines..I purchased 3 damaged lemons in a row all different companies..problems right out of the box or within a 2 week period. They were computerized machines. I could not believe it and I used to sell machines and was a dealer manager at one time. I bought a mechanical machine and a new computerized machine now..and a small one to tote..as back ups. I think if after using your new machine for a few weeks or a month..you will know if your machine has problems or not. I believe there are so many bugs and problems in machines today because of the many feature they have in the better models and problems in the lesser machines might be because they are cheaply made. I adivise to go middle of the line. |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: toadusew
Date: 01-09-2005, 10:38 AM (8 of 19)
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Hi! I'm new here, but would like to comment on the machines. I have owned a very basic Babylock for my first sewing machine and it was a good little mechanical machine. Since then I have owned 2 top of the line Janome machines. Even though the Babylock served its purpose at the time, I would recommend the Janome machines. They have good dealer support, and I have found very little that goes wrong with these machines. Janome makes bottom of the line mechanical machines, everything in between, all the up to the computerized sewing/embroidery machines. I had a Janome Memory Craft 8000 for several years and then updated to the Janome Memory Craft 10000 (which had the upgrade to make it the 10001) as it was becoming next to the top of the line (they came out with the 1001). So far, I have been very, very pleased with the Janome machines I've owned! Having said all of the above, there are several good brands on the market--Babylock, Pfaff, Janome, Husqvarna/Viking, Bernina--those would be my choices if I were in the market for a new machine. And you have to decide what your particular sewing needs are and what will best fit your sewing needs. Personally, I would look for a horizontal spool thread; a see-through top drop-in bobbin, and a free arm. For me, those things are important. Sorry this is so long for my first post, but I can get rather long-winded when it comes to chatting about sewing, etc.!  Belinda |
User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: M. Kat
Date: 01-09-2005, 11:49 AM (9 of 19)
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thanks for all the info! ugh, this is like buying a car, but at least a lot cheaper! anyway, i was really into the janome 659 one step, but what i was getting hung up on was the lack of ability to control stitch width. you could only choose 3 pre-set widths for zig zag only, and that's it. you couldn't choose the width for the stretch stitch zig zag at all, or anything else. maybe this isn't a big deal at all, but as a beginner i really don't know, and i don't want to wind up w/ a machine where i feel like i can't do certain things. apparently it's a model that's used a lot in classrooms, and pretty indestructable, so that's good. i thought about going up to the next level janome they had (the 6019?, i think, quilter's machine), but i really don't want to spend what they're asking, and i'm not planning to quilt.) thanks for all your help, M. Kat |
User: M. Kat
Member since: 01-07-2005 Total posts: 2 |
From: mamadus
Date: 02-06-2005, 04:29 PM (10 of 19)
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personally, I think its important to be able to adjust your stitch width.... as far as machine brands are concerned.. I think different machines fit different people....just like some people prefer a Lincoln and some prefer a cadillac.... I have a Brother ULT... for me its a great machine... I found it very user friendly, there may be other machines that may have better stitch quality, or better this or that, but for me ease of use is important... My aunt has the janome 10001 and loves it, but she feels it is not a terribly user friendly machine and often has to resort to calling her dealer in order to accomplish something... as far as weight is concerned, my Brother weighs more than her Janome... I'm really not sure that weight has much to do with quality... as someone as said, with the fantastic technology now in polymers, just because its plastic doesn't necessarily mean its weaker or less durable than metal... the best advice I think is to go test drive the various machines and see what feels comfortable to you... and if a dealer won't let you test drive with a piece of fabric you bring in, find a different dealer... just my 2 cents... MO life is too short, not to explore
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User: mamadus
Member since: 12-31-2004 Total posts: 492 
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From: Susy
Date: 02-06-2005, 06:31 PM (11 of 19)
| I have a very basic Janome and I really like it. However, I wish I had bought one with a few more options, I too, was never going to get in to quilting but ta da, I am giving it a shot and though many times frustrated, I think I am going to really enjoy it. So, if the money difference isn't huge, I would get one a bit fancier(even if you don't think you need it, you won't, in a couple of years, wish you had)! |
User: Susy
Member since: 02-05-2005 Total posts: 39 |
From: blessedmommyuv3
Date: 02-06-2005, 10:39 PM (12 of 19)
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I have the Janome 4052LX, which my dh purchased for me at Sears 3 years ago. It has 26 stitches, a built in 1 step buttonholer, a built in needle threader, the works! Here is a link: http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&vertical=APPL&pid=02014052000 I loved it so much, my dh upgraded me to a computerized Kenmore (also made by Janome). which I adore. My dd, 13, is learning to sew on this Janome now. It is so incredibly user friendly. Easy to thread, smooth operation, snap on feet. A pure joy; especially for a beginner. And it is just under $250.00. Just my 2 cents  Jen in CA |
User: blessedmommyuv3
Member since: 05-18-2004 Total posts: 263 
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From: Kylnne2
Date: 02-07-2005, 06:15 AM (13 of 19)
| Along with my mechanical Pfaff with IDT my computerized (Janome) Kenmore 19365 Elite is one of the best machines I have ever sewn on. The amount of features and stitches for the price cannot be beat. It is such a strong and very quiet machine. I baby it for some reason..and beat up my Pfaff. But I have found it handles all that the Pfaff can handle and does the most beautiful deco stitches you can imagine with excellent stitch quality. I love combining stitches too and elongating some. Sears has 2 new computerized Kenmores now and the more expensive one has more stitches. Their computerized machines all seem to have different features. |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: blessedmommyuv3
Date: 02-07-2005, 09:53 AM (14 of 19)
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She was a Birthday/Christmas gift from my dh last year; And is my most favored possession. A veritable dream to sew on.  Jen in CA |
User: blessedmommyuv3
Member since: 05-18-2004 Total posts: 263
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From: Kylnne2
Date: 02-08-2005, 03:35 AM (15 of 19)
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She sure is Jen, I totally agree. What a wonderful and smart hubby you have to choose such a great machine..how did he know? Most men would not even have a clue. May I put a feather in your DH's hat? LOL
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User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: blessedmommyuv3
Date: 02-08-2005, 10:56 AM (16 of 19)
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Kylnne, I had lusted (lol!)  over it for 6 months or so, and had it in my favorites bookmarked on the computer. He caught me mid-lust one day-hee! hee!When he asked about it, I mentioned it was my dream machine but it was way out of my affordability range, and worse, it was being discontinued. He had to drive 40 miles to get the very last one anywhere to be found around here. What a sweetie! Generous, loving, supportive, my protector... I can't say enough nice things about my dh!!!! And this Friday, 11 Feb, is our 16 year anniversary!  I am BLESSED!!! Jen in CA |
User: blessedmommyuv3
Member since: 05-18-2004 Total posts: 263
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From: twohands
Date: 02-08-2005, 08:55 PM (17 of 19)
| My machine is a 6019QC. I was facing the same dilemna. I wasn't sure if I wanted to go a little higher than the basic machines or if I wanted something with more features. When I bought my 6019 it came with tons of extras. lots of extra feet and also the cabinet, which I think made it worth while. |
User: twohands
Member since: 01-16-2005 Total posts: 12 |
From: Kylnne2
Date: 02-08-2005, 10:10 PM (18 of 19)
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Jen..happy sweet 16th anniversary to you both. My parents anniv. was Valentines day. Valentines day is also my dog and her littermate sister's birthday. My youngest daughter owns her sis..we have parties for them with hats and all We have many parties in my family becuase of so many kids and grandkids. I hope you had a wonderful day..and I hope you have a great Valentines day too.
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User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: blessedmommyuv3
Date: 02-09-2005, 09:25 AM (19 of 19)
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Aw, how sweet, thank you!!!! It sounds like your family has a really great time at Valentine's, too. Furbabies are the greatest, aren't they? We have 2 Saint Bernards, and boy are they spoiled!!! Many nights we have to choose alternate places to sit, because if they are on the couch there is no room for anyone else, lol! But if we are already on the couch, they have no problem plopping their 150 lb bodies into our laps! Hee! Hee! Someone needs to tell them they aren't lap dogs! Happy Valentine's Day, everybody! Jen in CA |
User: blessedmommyuv3
Member since: 05-18-2004 Total posts: 263
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