Another machine question/opinion sought
 

In my earlier thread, I mentioned that I am looking at a Brother and a Juki machine. I was offered a Janome Memory Craft 350 for sale (comes only with hoops). Cannot find information on harp size (which is a huge consideration for me), whether I can piece on it...basically what can this machine do aside from complex embroidery?

Thanks for helping! BTW, price is $350. Embroidery program CDs are selling at $10 each. I don't know if this is a good price or not. Thanks again.

Do you have any idea how old the machine is? The Janome website lists the work space as: W 7" x H 4.3".
The price is incredible since they are selling new for $1000.00.

No clue as to how old. I assume that the 7" is from the right of needle to the "arm" of the machine? I am looking for the largest harp area I can find. I'm not sure I'd use the embroidery component (I am a hand embroiderer) and would probably only use the machine for piecing and fmq. My friend who is selling it, doesn't use the embroidery function. I am soooooo confused! Don't know which way to go - new or "help" out a friend and perhaps not be happy with my purchase. Decisions, decisions.

With a new machine you get a warranty and classes. That might make a difference. I have the Juki TL98Q, with a 9 inch throat, and it is a real workhorse.

The Janome you mention would give you about 30 sq. in. of harp space, whereas with the Juki and Brother machines mentioned previously, you'd get about 54 sq. in. of harp space. That would make a big difference if you intend to do FMQ on projects like bed-size quilts.

The MC350 is a stand alone embroidery only machine, you cannot sew with it. If you have any interest at all in machine embroidery though, $350 for it is a very good price.

Cari

Thank you! You've answered the most important question for me. I am looking for a machine I can piece with and fmq with, so I will pass on the 350.

I'd go for the most harp space you can afford. 10 inches would be my minimum.

I have a Janome 6600 with 9" harp space and even that was a big improvement from the standard 5-6" harp space.

Just came home from trying the Baby Lock Jazz. I am in love!!!! 12 inch harp space, 28 stitches...plus on sale! Will be taking DH to see machine on Saturday.