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New at quilting and in the market for a machine

New at quilting and in the market for a machine

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Old 04-13-2009, 11:29 AM
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Hello everyone, :)

I am here because I have a few projects I want to do that involve quilting, which I've not done before on a machine and my hand quilting knowledge is very limited. I also need a new machine; I'm close to pitch my 25 yo one out the window. :roll:

I don't want to spend a lot either so I'm looking at the Janome 6260QC which appears affordable... I'm still trying to find the price on that puppy. Naturally, I'm drooling over the Bernina's, but they are way out of my league. I'm also entertaining the Janome MC4800.

From what I understand the following features are desirable:

* adjustable speed motor
* infinite stitch length adjustment
* presser foot pressure adjustment
* needle down feature

I'm not sure the MC4800 has that pressure adj. feature though.

:?: Is anyone familiar with those two machines?
Any other suggestions in terms of machine and features would be appreciated so long as it's not more expensive.

TIA :)

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Old 04-13-2009, 11:54 AM
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I don't know anything about either of these machines. I just wanted to suggest that you check Allbrands www.allbrands.com. They have great prices on machines. I'm not affiliated but I purchased a Juki from them and everyone I know who has purchased from them has been very happy.

Forgot to mention that you also want the ability to either drop the feeddogs or cover them. And you'll also want a walking foot and a "darning" foot (also called a "free motion" foot).

I get an email from allbrands every month with a coupon. I've already deleted the one for April but I'll try to remember to post the one for May. It's usually $5 off $100; 25 off $500, etc.
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Old 04-13-2009, 12:00 PM
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One of the best quilters on the internet blogged about her new Janome. check it out:







http://quiltville.blogspot.com/2009/...charlotte.html




http://quiltville.blogspot.com/2009/...py-bonnie.html
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Old 04-13-2009, 12:02 PM
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I have the Janome MX3143, 23 stitches, up/down needle, threader, nice machine and around $270.
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Old 04-13-2009, 12:10 PM
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I am a Janome machine owner ( 3 machines at present) and I would definitely go for the 4800. Both would serve your purpose and you need to find a dealer near you that can help you out. Because having a dealer you can rely on is of utmost importance. My machines have never been to the shop because of problems. One I have had for 11 yrs and the other ones are three yrs old. I do take them in for maintanence on occasion but not on a yearly basis but probably should. Good Luck in what ever you buy. You will be amazed at all the options that are out there on new machines. Marge
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Old 04-13-2009, 12:14 PM
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I have a Bernina and feel very happy I made that choice.

Here's a site whose members review their machines. There's LOTS of information there on LOTS of different sewing machines:

http://sewing.patternreview.com/SewingMachine/Reviews

Good luck with your search.


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Old 04-13-2009, 01:23 PM
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I have a Sears Kenmore made by Janome. Great machine for the money.
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Old 04-13-2009, 01:23 PM
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i have a janome gold, which is my traveling machine. very lightweight, has the features you're looking for (not sure about the presser foot pressure - but you *could* do that manually on a quilt - quilt basis by adjusting the height.)
schlepped it around for years in a bouncing van, left it in a damp beach house over the winter, dragged it from one vacation to another... never had one day's problem with it. still use it as a traveler. terrific machine.

i also have a janome mc8000. almost what? 20 yrs old? love it to death. no problems with it. only problems with me (don't sew your fingers together LOL)

so i think any janome you choose, any price range, will give you good service for a long time. IMHO
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Old 04-13-2009, 02:11 PM
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Originally Posted by Moose
From what I understand the following features are desirable:

* adjustable speed motor
* infinite stitch length adjustment
* presser foot pressure adjustment
* needle down feature
I also recommend getting infinite stitch *width* adjustment (very important if you ever want to do machine applique).
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Old 04-13-2009, 03:25 PM
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Don't know about those machines. Just wanted to welcome you to the board from Southern Callifornia.
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