Janome machines
 

Looking for a class machine, and one I can take to retreats. The Janome 720 and the janome dc 2013 or 2014 are the two I'm considering. Any experience or thoughts on these two machines?

You can check Amazon and http://www.patternreview.com for comments about these models. I think they are all good choices for a class machine, so it may come down to whatever feels best to you and/or cost.

Edit: Oh, and weight.

I have yet to meet a Janome I didn't like...

I recently bought a 3160QDC as my portable - I think it's sort of a big brother to the DC2013-2014 machines (Instead of "decor", it's "quilters decor") and I love it. It's the purriest machine I've ever had, runs even sweeter than my 6600. I picked that model so I could get the scissor cut button, which is my most favorite button in the whole world!

When you're comparing - make sure you have a list of your "must haves" and "want to haves" and see which machine has the most of each. Check what feet they come with, and other things like an extension table. See which has a better case (if there's a difference). And as Prism said..weight!

The 3160 is also great to take to class. I love it because it will cut the threads for you. Enjoying mine.

I also have the Janome 3160. It is perfect for classes, and for someone that wants a really nice machine, and not a huge amount of money, about $500. Great machine!

I have a Janome DC2008 and love it. It sews a beautiful stitch. I also use some of the decorative stitches when I sew clothes for the grandkids or home décor. It is easy to use and not very heavy. It is going on 6 years old and no problems so far, (knocking on wood, LOL).

I would go find a dealer and test drive them just like you would a car. I went to a friend of mine and I found I didn't like the Janome 6600 which seems to be a very popular DSM on this site. Maybe I am just to accustom to my older Bernina 1530 and am too old of a dog to learn new tricks !!

I cannot find an extension table for my Janome DC2014. Just got the machine and love it.

I can't really compare the two models, but I have had the Janome Jem 720 since just after it came on the market. It does a great job with so many stitches--including the buttonhole for appliqué. I went to a retreat and another lady was doing great machine quilting on one!) It is very lightweight. Lots of extra feet are available and interchangeable with most other Janomes...probably Kenmores and Elna, too. Mine has been a work horse. I have carried it to bees almost weekly for years and to other retreats, too. (I have other Janomes including an embroidery machine, but usually I will set up my 720 when I get ready to stitch.....Maybe that's mostly because I keep it downstairs and the others are up! Alas, however, it doesn't cut the threads if that is a priority.)