Bree123

Does anyone have this machine? I'm thinking of buying it since it's 40% off today on Amazon Prime.

I do not want some insane sewing machine with 10,000 stitches when I really probably only want 3-4. I just want a good, reliable machine that doesn't need too many trips to the service center.

I'm happy with my Singer Genie except for the following:

No Needle Down Option
Can't slow down the speed except by foot control
No blanket stitch for machine applique
It tells you how many stitches to an inch rather than the actual length of the stitches
Poor lighting

I was also thinking the push button Start might be useful, but come to think of it, that might just be confusing. I'm a simple, no-frills gal & just want a machine that will do a consistently good job with piecing (which mine does) and that I can use for FMQ (severely limited with no needle down option).

Any thoughts? Other recommendations?

Thanks!!!

IrishgalfromNJ

Here is an old thread about the Janome model you are interested in. A couple of posters bought the machine to take to classes. http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1...y-t234965.html

Sandygirl

Not enough features for me. Love love my Janomes but i esp love the very features that you mentioned were missing from this model. I assume that since you mentioned them....you would regret not having them and likely have buyers' remorse.

Sandy

ManiacQuilter2

You really need to try out a model before buying it. I have needle down on my old Bernina 1530 but seldom use it but I do like the blanket stitch. Speed control hasn't been a problem, it is just like driving a car. Good Luck with making your decision. So many popular items were quickly sold out on Amazon Prime yesterday.

Bree123

I decided to wait & buy from a local dealer when there is a sale. Too many horror stories about not being able to get service/support when buying online.

It seems like pretty much all of the current models above $300 have all the features I really want. I guess beyond that, it will just involve a lot of test drives. I have no use for dozens of fancy stitches, but can't tell online what the more expensive machines offer other than those stitches.

just janet

I have the Janome 4120 and I love it. It has the needle down position that I use all the time, also the automatic threader which is great. It has fancy stitches that I seldom use but love the blanket stitch. I too don't need all the fancy stuff but I did buy the darning foot and the walking foot which I use occasionally. Check into that model. It has good speed control and very good lighting. I also agree that you should buy from a local dealer.

jeanharville

I have that machine and I have loved it. I take it with me everywhere I go to sew. I haven't tried FMQing on it, but I can't see why it wouldn't do well. I was surprised how well it sews several layers of fabric and has a nice stitch. My granddaughter uses the auto stop/start because her legs can't touch the peddle yet. I can recommend this machine. But always make your own test drive and buy locally if you can.

Bree123

Thank you all. Yes, I will be test driving different machines starting tomorrow with the Bernina. I really dislike their stitch regulator. It just seems too confusing to me, but maybe I will like the other features enough to enjoy it. I'm also going to visit a Janome dealer (they also sell used Janome's since they have an on-site repair center in the building next door) on Tuesday and a Singer/Viking dealer later in the week. I really love my Singer Genie, but I've read so many complaints about the newer Singers that it has me a bit worried. I like their price points & the fact that their machines come with more of the features I want for less money, but I'm just not sure about their service issues. We'll have to see.

I like the Janome dealer the best. But I may also check out the Vacuum Repair shop near me as they have several used models of nice sewing machines. The one feature I am having a harder time finding at my price point is the Start/Stop button. I have pain from an auto accident where my foot was on the brake & got jammed backwards so I'm always making these creative little ergonomic platforms for my speed control pedal to reduce spasms that cause uneven stitches on occasion -- the one time I grab for the seam ripper.

But I guess as far as precision piecing & smooth FMQ, probably the only way I can know what works for me is to try out the different options. I like that pretty much all the modern machines have a blanket stitch so I can do some machine applique if I choose to (children's hospital charity quilts require machine work for applique to ensure they will hold up to frequent washing). They also all seem to have a triple stitch, which is the one decorative stitch that I really love for home dec.

I don't really love shopping (except for fabric & notions!) but I guess this will be fun to get to try out so many different machines. I'm bringing my own fabric & quilt sandwiches so I can compare the different models. My brother/SIL & sister/BIL will each get a couple new changing pads out of it, too. So that will be nice.

Thanks for the feedback, Jean. I will definitely keep this machine in mind when testing. It looked like a nice machine on paper.

mea12

I'm especially liking the new DC 2015. It is heavier than the 3160/4120 at 18 lbs but that makes it more stable for things like FMQ. It does have needle up/down, variable stitch length/width, variable needle positions, and a modest but adequate assortment of dec stitches. I also have the 4120 and its a great machine. The 3160 is just below the 4120 with all the features you want just fewer stitches so should cost less. It reportedly has the new SFS+ feed system but if you feel some of the computerized models are over-kill, then the new 2015 (very red!) does offer quite a lot and essentially same perks of the 4120..it is just heavier and has fewer stitches. It was $499 until just recently it seems price has gone up. Janome did have a price increase that went into effect last week on many of the popular models.