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Old 02-12-2012, 05:59 AM
  #11  
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I second the Janome 3160. All the "fancy" features in only 16 lbs which includes the cover, cord, foot pedal and accessories. It has a variable needle position - adjustable in .5mm increments. I love mine.
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Old 02-12-2012, 06:08 AM
  #12  
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My machine that I take to class with me is my Kenmore/Janome. Now before you say it isn't small or lightweight; let me explain. My other two machines are the Viking Mega quilter and the Viking Ruby. Compared to both of these machines my Kenmore is very light and it sews great. When I have a class that needs more than just straight stitches it can handle that as well.
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Old 02-12-2012, 07:19 PM
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I take my Bernina 380 to classes. It's small, came with a case and is easy to cart around.
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Old 02-12-2012, 08:23 PM
  #14  
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Default Janome Gem Does Have Variable Needle Positions

You do have variable needle positions on your machine - lots of them! I found this out by accident. Press the zig zag button on our machine. If you press the +, your needle will move several positions to the right, the same if you press the -, the needle will move several positions to the left. You can stop at any needle position you want. Then press the straight stitch button. Your needle will stay in the position you left it in and you can sew away on your straight stitch. Hope my directions are clear!




Originally Posted by Lucio View Post
I have the Janome Gem Platinum. The thing I miss the most on this machine is variable needle position. I wish I had shopped a little longer to see if there were other small machines with this feature. I've had no problems with this machine however. If you choose it make sure the dealer throws in some extras such as 1/4 inch foot, carrying case, walking foot and extension table.
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Old 02-12-2012, 08:57 PM
  #15  
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Until I got my Featherweight, I always took my dinky mechanical Brother which sews a nice stitch and is lightweight. I've used this machine for about 8 years with no problems.
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Old 02-12-2012, 09:22 PM
  #16  
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I purchased a small Brother and love it. The Babylocks are great too. I don't like the Janomes. I, as well as others, have had bobbin trouble. But a lot of people like them.
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Old 02-13-2012, 05:02 AM
  #17  
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I love my Babylock Audrey, I paid around $350. it came with a table, carrying case 1/4 inch foot and lots more extras. Before I got it I carried my 1940's FW, but since they are getting too expensive to replace I purchased the Audrey and don't regret the change with the stitch options I can use.

Nearly everyone else I sew with has the small Janome lightweights, but they were lots more money than my Audrey.

Good luck with your choice, I do suggest shopping around and trying different machines, what I or someone else likes may not be your first choice.

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