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From: sheilab
Date: 06-15-2005, 11:02 PM (1 of 21)
Hello everyone! I am new here and also very new at sewing and quilting. I am now working on a quilt top that will be ready to quilt soon. I have a basic Singer sewing machine but instead of buying the extra attachments I have thought about buying a new machine since I enjoy this so much. I found one at Sears that is a Janome 4052 that includes the walking and quilting feet which is the same as Hancocks Janome quilters delight. Does anyone know if these are good machines? My funds are limited so I can't really pay over $300. Thanks! 
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User: sheilab
Member since: 05-28-2005 Total posts: 3 |
From: esrun3
Date: 06-15-2005, 11:29 PM (2 of 21)
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Hi sheilab...I don't have an answer for you, I use a singer 9940 but wanted to welcome you to the board. Someone will be along soon with some info!
Lyn
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User: esrun3
Member since: 12-02-2004 Total posts: 2345 |
From: carman
Date: 06-16-2005, 12:46 AM (3 of 21)
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find the one with the largest space between the throat plate and body of machine (the space in there) and go with the one that you can afford. some machines are VERY small and it is a pain when trying to shove even a double size quilt through to quilt. welcome to the boards of SWN 
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User: carman
Member since: 04-17-2000 Total posts: 692 
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From: Kylnne2
Date: 06-16-2005, 05:57 AM (4 of 21)
| Several machines are good for quilting but I would like to suggest the Pfaff Hobby Grand Quilter made by Janome. The new Viking Mega Quilter which has not come to my dealer yet is a clone of the Pfaff GQ I was told by my dealer. These are straight stitch machines and sew at 1600 stitches per min and have a speed control on the head and also a separate motor for bobbin winding. They have a huge sewing area. They have a knee lift to raise the pressure foot so your hands are free. I have free motioned on the PGQ and it was the best machine I have ever used in free motion. There is a yahoo forum for the Phaff Hobby Grand Quiter that compares the different quilting machines where owners are raving abut the machine. The introductory price is around $1000. There are also several new quilters by Elna and Janome that have many different stitches. But I would like to suggest to anyone looking for a quilter to try the Pfaff GQ. It has automatic features to guarantee perfect stitches on any fabric..but it does not have the famous Pfaff dual feed. It seems to do very well without the IDT however. Users seem to not have much need for a walking foot with the auto stitich functions and foot pressure offered with the machine. |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 06-16-2005, 02:12 PM (5 of 21)
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Tuesday night at our guild meeting a lady from Bernina demoed the new Bernina quilting machine that has the built-in stitch regulator. It retails for $2,995. I can't say that I was at all impressed with that machine. In fact, the machine itself is a small machine so I can't see how it would help in doing free motion, etc. on a large quilt. She only demoed it with a small square of fabric. Duh!!! Most people are going to be working with more than a small square of fabric if they're quilting, don't you think? Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 06-16-2005, 06:05 PM (6 of 21)
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Sheilab, A janome is a Janome whether it is sold at sears or at a Janome dealer.. Difference is the ones at Sears are less expensive.. If you can sew by yourself and not need instructions and guidance from a dealer, go with the one at Sears.. I have a Janome Memory Craft 4000 that was priced at $1199.00 when I bought it in 1992 or 1993.I got mine for $800.00 on special..Sears has a machine now that is a Janome and almost exactly like mine and it sells for less than $300.00.. It is a very good bargain..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: Kylnne2
Date: 06-16-2005, 08:09 PM (7 of 21)
| I have a Kenmore (Janome) computerized machine it is a 19365 and I love the way it quilts. It is so smooth, fast and quiet. I use both my Pfaff with the IDTand Kenmore for different tasks. The newer quilting machines even have more speed..but it is that large harp and sewing space that is so nice with these new machines, also the separate motors for bobbin winding and low bobbin indicators etc. |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: Saydee
Date: 06-16-2005, 09:18 PM (8 of 21)
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I have just bought a Brother PQ1500s quilter which I am very happy with. It is a semi commercial machine. Comes with Push-button Auto Thread Trimmers, Auto Needle Positioner & Knee Lever for Presser Foot Lift Sews up to 1500 Stitches Per Minute Built-In Automatic Needle Threader Automatic Underbed Thread Trimmers Exclusive Pin Feed Stops Ply Slippage Exclusive Feed Dog Height Adjustment Retractable Drop Feed Dog Control Long 6"X9" Arm Space Right Of Needle 9" is from needle to head of machine 6" is height from sewing bed to top of underarm Knee and Hand Lever for Presser Foot Lift High Speed Portable Straight Stitch Includes 12x18" Extension Table Exclusive Fabric Seperator Attachment Included accessories: Flex Reaction Presser Foot, Adjustable Zipper Foot, Concealed Zipper Foot, Narrow Rolled Hem Foot, 1/4" Seam Foot, Fabric Separator, Seam Guide, Walking Foot, Freemotion Quilting Foot, General Purpose Foot I am very happy with it and paid NZ $1499.00 |
User: Saydee
Member since: 05-07-2004 Total posts: 68 
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From: HeyJudee
Date: 06-16-2005, 10:26 PM (9 of 21)
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Hi sheilab. A couple of years ago I started quilting using a sewing machine that I bought 30 years ago. Then I bought a new machine at Sears and loved it for piecing. But as soon as I started machine quilting, I discovered the features that I really "needed" especially for free motion quilting (which I love to do). So I went looking for another machine and these were what my new machine had to have: a walking foot and a free-motion foot (darning foot) needle up/down - when you stop sewing it helps if the needle will always stop in the down position because the weight of the quilt often causes it to move, especially true when free motion quilting speed control - able to set a specific speed - much easier to do free motion quilting when you don't have to worry about going too fast or too slow large harp - was not originally one of my requirements but is what made me decide on the machine I bought a quilting table - plastic or plexi glass table that fits around the machine to give you a larger area to work on - some people can make their own or you can buy this later I know you said you were on a budget, but when you look at machines and if you have a choice, consider some of these features.... or you may be like me...buying another machine. Good Luck. TTFN from
Judy |
User: HeyJudee
Member since: 01-25-2005 Total posts: 1366 
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From: Kylnne2
Date: 06-17-2005, 05:26 AM (10 of 21)
| Judy, your description fits the new Pfaff Grand Quilter..but I don't think it comes with a walking foot and it does not have the Pfaff IDT but users seem to not need it. I suggest you try a test drive on this machine if those are the features you like. I know after I free motioned on the machine..I didn't want to leave it in the store. I hope to purchase it some day but for now my present machines suit me just fine. Good luck on your search for a new machine too. |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: sheilab
Date: 06-17-2005, 03:57 PM (11 of 21)
| Thank you ladies you have being very helpful. I didn't realize that there were so many things to look for when looking for a machine that quilts well. I am going out this weekend to start another search. I will keep you posted. Thanks again. |
User: sheilab
Member since: 05-28-2005 Total posts: 3 |
From: June Harlow
Date: 06-17-2005, 04:21 PM (12 of 21)
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Is there any truth to the rumour that the Singer 221 is just the "bee's knees" for quilters? I keep seeing the 221's going for lots of money on eBay, is that why?
June ~
"If only I could find that missing pattern piece!" June sews on a Pfaff 1209 and a Babylock 5180 serger |
User: June Harlow
Member since: 05-30-2005 Total posts: 100 
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From: mandylifeboats
Date: 06-18-2005, 07:56 AM (13 of 21)
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i got a brother at a local wholesale shop for $165.00. this model the CS-80 is unbelievable. digital, threads itself, stipples, appliques. very easy to use. i saw them at target too.
~my world is a quilt top waiting to happen~
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User: mandylifeboats
Member since: 06-15-2005 Total posts: 6 
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 06-18-2005, 01:22 PM (14 of 21)
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June, the Singer 221 is a GREAT machine.. I bought mine used in 1957, it is still going strong today.. I would not take a million for it.. It has only been to the shop once.. DS unscrewed the tension mechanism when he was just crawling and stupid me put it on the floor to get dinner on the table..(only did that once, believe me) I could not get the pieces back together in the right order.. That machine has a lifetime guarantee on it.. At the time all machines had 20 or 25 year guarantees on them , but Singer put "lifetime" on the 221.. Even though I bought mine used, they still gave me that guarantee.. It was a rental machine.. I rented it 3 months at $15. per month, and the rental counted as the down payment when I decided to buy it..Best $159.00 investment I ever made.. It still makes the prettiest buttonholes I have ever seen any machine make..Only does a straight stitch but what a stitch it makes.. I use it mostly to re-hem jeans nowadays because my good machines wont sew all those heavy layers without breaking a needle.. My sons, DIL and GRchildren all call it "Old Faithful".. Every once in a while DS will send me an Ebay link and say check the price..... (another old faithful)... Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
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From: June Harlow
Date: 06-18-2005, 03:50 PM (15 of 21)
Libby it sounds just wonderful ! That's exactly what I'd heard about the beautiful straight stitches. They're such cute lil' machines too. There's even someone on eBay who used to sell custom repainted 221's (purple, pink, etc.) However, I think it's sort of sacrilegious to change the color on them  If I can ever save up some money I'd love to own one.http://imagehost.vendio.com/bin/imageserver.x/00000000/cowcollector1/AM1copy.jpg June ~
"If only I could find that missing pattern piece!" June sews on a Pfaff 1209 and a Babylock 5180 serger |
User: June Harlow
Member since: 05-30-2005 Total posts: 100
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From: Bama
Date: 06-24-2005, 11:58 PM (16 of 21)
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Saydee, I'm glad to hear you like your Brother PQ1500. I'll be getting this machine (second hand) sometime in the very near future. It belonged to a dear friend of mine who passed away a few months ago. I know she really liked that machine. sheilab, Welcome to SWN. try taking some fabric and batting scraps with you to dealerships to try out different machines before you buy. Unfortunately places like WalMart won't let you do this. I saw a Singer machine for quilters at WalMart at a reasonable price, but I have no idea if it's a good machine or not. btw, I'm in north AL too. About 35 miles out of Bham. Are you going to the Birmingham Quilters Guild show this weekend? |
User: Bama
Member since: 03-21-2000 Total posts: 2116 
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From: Glenda B
Date: 06-27-2005, 12:07 AM (17 of 21)
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Hi Sheilab, I'm new too. I think we'll have fun here. I don't know about the Janome 4052, but I once owned a Janome 8000, and traded it in for a 9000. Three years ago I gave my 9000 to my Mother and bought a 10,000, which I now own. I have loved all of them, and very little maintenance. I don't know if that has helped any. Glenda B |
User: Glenda B
Member since: 06-26-2005 Total posts: 2 |
From: ArizonaStitcher
Date: 07-26-2005, 07:18 PM (18 of 21)
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ladies, I have read this thread with interest. I have decided to get my DIL a fairly basic machine -- she wants to be able to mend, etc., as well as do some basic stuff. She would be happy with a mechanical machine, with some built-in stitches and some durability. I don't want to get her a machine that 'klunks' when it's being used. Any advice? I want to spend under $400 for sure, would prefer under $300. Thanks for your input. Happy Stitchin' from sunny Arizona
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User: ArizonaStitcher
Member since: 12-21-2004 Total posts: 20 
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From: Kylnne2
Date: 07-26-2005, 10:45 PM (19 of 21)
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AzStitcher, we share the same city For the price you wish to pay on a machine you might want to check out the Janome made Kenmore machines at Sears. I feel these Janomes offer more features for the price and the same Janome quality. I own one of their computerized models and it is really a terrific machine. A mechanical Pfaff is my other machine and the dual feed gives it the ability to be a great workhorse no matter the material. Janome also makes the Huskystar for Viking and the Huskystar model 224 has more features and electronics than the models under it. It has full needle piercing power no matter the speed..it has a speed control too. It is a very quiet machine also and it might fit your pocketbook. It is sold at Joanns and the Viking dealers. The highly rated and reviewed little Jem Silver and Gem Gold can be purchased at on line dealers for only $199 with free shipping. You might like the Jem Silver with the ASG logo on the machine and the little blue carry bag that comes with it. These are small machines but built like the bigger machines on the inside and were made for quilters in the ASG to take to classes. Also for your price range you might want to find a used machine..one of the good oldy but goodies models from top brands. There are many nice machines to choose from today. I hope you find a nice one.
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User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: Sancin
Date: 07-27-2005, 04:16 AM (20 of 21)
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How do you find out which Sears sewing machines are which Janome machines? Meaning if Sears machine is mpxx, how do you know if it is a Janome 200 or 3000? I also wonder if they are the same in Canada as in the US. I have shopped at Sears in US and purchased somethings that weren't available in Canada Sears. The sales people in our local Sears don't seem to even know that Sears machines are made by Janome. I guess that some are and some aren't. Nancy *~*~*~* Nancy*~*~*~* " I try to take one day at a time - but sometimes several days attack me at once."
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User: Sancin
Member since: 02-13-2005 Total posts: 895 
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From: Kylnne2
Date: 07-28-2005, 10:20 AM (21 of 21)
| I was told by a Sears salesperson that the Sears Kenmore machine models that start with the numbers 385 are made by Janome. The Kenmore sergers included. I have the model 19365 but the entire model number is 385.19365991. Sears does also carry machines with the Janome name on them so does JC Penny. Sears and Kmart have merged so now I expect we will see some changes. I see on line that Sears now carries Simplicity and some different models of machines than my local store does not have. If you need feet and accessories for a Kenmore it is the Janome brochure that is given to you or you may call and get it from Janome. When I called my local Sears in regards to a question about my computerized machine in regards to accessories they gave me the Janome phone number to call. |
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
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