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-   -   Lightweight Machine...No Featherweights Please (https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/lightweight-machine-no-featherweights-please-t327415.html)

mkc 12-02-2025 08:17 AM


Originally Posted by cashs_mom (Post 8709165)
I thought she was looking for a smaller machine.

She mentions lighter, but not smaller. The Jem is only 1 lb lighter than the standard size 3160QDC. It also is a 5mm machine with 4-piece feed dogs vs the 7mm 7-piece Superior Feed System (Janome's version of box feed) of a full size machine. If one is looking for a replacement primary machine, they'd probably prefer full size.

BTW, the Jem Platinum is discontinued according to Janome's website.

scrappingfaye58 12-03-2025 05:42 AM

I have several inexpensive Brother machines, that I love. I haven't had any issues with them, I drag them to retreat, and although I would love to have a machine with a large throat to domestic machine quilt, I wrestle with the machines I have. Living on a fixed income, you use what you have and can afford.

ILoveToQuilt 12-03-2025 08:28 AM

Thanks for the recommendations. I should have been more specific in what I am looking for. Lightweight, yes. Full size, maybe. Smaller, maybe.

What I currently own: Janome Heart Truth, Babylock Jazz, Featherweights x2 (1938 and Centennial). Regarding the Featherweights, the '38 needs motor work and the Centennial was my mom's machine and doesn't leave my house. I am looking for a basic, lightweight machine to schlep around - to sewing group, camping, etc.

Thanks again everyone for your suggestions!

Maureen NJ 12-03-2025 08:01 PM

I have a Pfaff Passport which weighs about 13 lbs and I love it. Lightweight, easy to move, beautiful stitch, and absolutely no problem with it. I clean the bobbin area of dust bunnies with every 2nd bobbin change and have never needed to have it serviced. I bought it when they first came out. I believe that was about 7-8 years ago.

Austinite 12-04-2025 12:35 PM

I love my Janome 2222, just weighed it and it's 12.5lbs which isn't much smaller than the one you have, so I would look into the walmart Brothers!

loisf 12-04-2025 01:43 PM

Another vote for the Janome Jem Platinum. It weighs 12 pounds, but it’s a little work horse. Mine travels all over with me, and I’ve pierced many quilts on it.

ibex94 12-05-2025 05:04 PM

Babylock Joy may fit your needs. About 12 pounds. If you like your Jazz, add checking out Joy to your list of potential lightweight purchases. Mine travels beautifully.

vivisky 12-05-2025 05:49 PM

I have the Janome Gem Gold, I've lent it to a friend who is learning to sew as an adult. It is very user friendly for her and lightweight enough she can move it from closet to dining table etc.

I also have a vintage Kenmore 158. 10400, which is a 3/4 machine, very sturdy, basic stitches, quiet, and comes in the rose-embossed case. I've used it in the camper and I really like it, a lot. I prefer it to the FW since it has zig-zag stitches.


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