Which machine to buy
 

Hi, I am ready to buy a new sewing machine and would like a Janome. I have used a $500 machine for the last 8 years or so, do I need to spend a whole more on something a lot more sturdy and longer lasting than 8 years. I basically do piecing for patchwork and don't quilt plus he jeans. What do you think. Thanks in advance for your input. Chris

Don't buy a machine with a bunch of bells and whistles you won't use. But I bet you already figured that out!! But I do love my Janome 9700!

Are you saying that your last machine only lasted 8 years? I'd be pretty upset if that was all--even a cheapie machine should last longer than that.

That saying, I have a Janome 7700 and I like it. Plus a 12000, but I use that mostly for embroidery. I like the huge harp space--it has made a world of difference in how easy it is to quilt a larger quilt.

What is your budget? That will help determine your final decision. Since you already know that you would like a Janome, head to their website to find some machines that appeal to you. Then head to a janome dealer to look at the machines.

sandy

I'm not much help. I have three back up machines. Two machines I use all the time. They are straight stitch only. I piece on them and quilt all my quilts on them. I don't use fancy stitches. I would decide what I want to do with the machines and go from there.
Welcome to this wonderful board, you will love it here.

Welcome, from Texas! I have a Janome 7700 and love it! :thumbup:

Welcome to the board from Arizona. I hope you get a nice machine.

Take a look at the Juki machines. I have the TL-98Q and it is a heavy, solid, fast, powerful machine that does not growl and bunch up when it starts or complain about thick jean seam intersections unlike my Janome 6500 which cost over twice as much. You should be able to buy a new Juki for less than $1000 with the tax!

I am not going to tell you what brands to look at because I don't know the dealers available o you. I am going to tell you to write down your needs. If you do not intend to quilt your quilts (tying or having someone else quilt them), then your needs may be very different than someone else's. I totally love having a computerized model, while my sister prefers more rugged non-computerized model. If you really like crazy quilts, you may want more fancy stitches available. Or not. What is your budget? Are you willing to consider used to get more features?

I love my janome 8900. A real workhorse