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

Take a look at the Janome 3160 and the Juki F600 Exceed. I own and love them both. The Juki feels a little sturdier to me but the 3160 is my class machine and it's taken a beating and held up very nicely.

First, I don't understand your problem. Are you satisified with your machine or do you just want something new.

When did you last have your machine serviced? This is really important. One of my friends finally admitted she had never had her machine serviced and has had it for more than 6 years. I drove her to my machine repair person's place [same day service] and now my friend can't get over how well her machine works.

If you want a new to you machine make your own check list: budget, needs, and wants. Are you open to a good used machine? Many quilters do trade up and their previous machines are still in great condition.

Enjoy the journey.

I'm so wanting a new machine that has a bigger throat so I can free motion better. I'm not really wanting a long-arm. I have 2 pfaffs the 2047 and 7530 in which I love. I have been looking at the Janome 7700 and can't bring myself to cheat on my Pfaffs....please someone sell me on why I should buy the Janome when I have all these Pfaff feet. The only thing that discourages me about the new Pfaff is the slant on the front

I also have a Janome 7700. Love it....I don't live close to dealers so I got it online from Sewing Machines Plus.....they are great with any and everything you need. :)

Hi....I just purchased a Juki F600 sight unseen....but after doing a lot of research. I was hesitant to buy something I couldn't touch if test drive but the reviews and price were too good to pass up. I was leaning towards a Pfaff but it appears from the reviews I read that they are not as well made anymore. I absolutely LOVE my Juki. I'm mostly a quikter and home decor....and dabble in garments. This machine will do everything I need and it is so quiet. You can tell it is well made on the inside, where it counts! Good luck....it is a big decision as they aren't cheap.

I love my Janomes. The first time I sewed to many layers with my 6260 I really screwed things up. The next time I was sewing a lot of layers I , I just put in a bigger needle, & it worked perfectly. So I think the needle size is very important. I have a 6260 & a 7700 & a Platinum Gem. The last one is so handy when I need to take it out, but is handy at home too. Sometimes , so I just don't have to change thread.

My best advice is to buy one locally, when you have a problem it is good to not have to go a huge distance for servicing.