cat-on-a-mac

I was just using my 8900qcp yesterday to make a tote bag for my DH, using a canvas fabric, and I was thinking how great it handled that heavy job, and everything else I've ever asked it to do. Had mine since 2014. Same as Patrice, I almost never take off the acufeed.

Calran

Love my 8900, great for FMQ

Lady Diana

8900, had two for three years...in different locations. My daughter needed a machine for a class we were taking together.....I had to say goodbye to one of my 8900's.....I just purchased her a new 6600 for her birthday....now I don't think she will like it, since she has my 8900. Don't know what to do. Love 8900 for free motion. The day I purchased it, took it out of the box, read the setting s for FMQ...did not change the factory needle or the bobbin case....started FMQ with no problems, no loops, smooth as glass. Love it!

Jannie

I started with the 4800 and upgraded every 3 years or so. My dealer will give you full value to upgrade to a newer machine. I had the 8200 and really liked it. I now have the 9400 and love it. The lighting is so much better than the previous machines it is is worth the upgrade. If you don't need all the extra stitches, I would say look at the 8200.

patricej

My "plain" 8900 came with both needle plates, both of which are quick-set. (no stupid screws to fiddle with. )
i haven't done button holes in decades, so haven't paid any attention to those feet.
i had to buy my spool holder separately, so if the SE comes with one, that's part of the special accessory package.

Bobbinalong

The dealer, on whose list for a reconditioned one I was, phoned this morning. My head was almost in the 'let's buy a new machine from The Festival of Quilts at Birmingham' mode so I wondered what deal I was going to be offered for a reconditioned one. The head honcho was calling me to say that he had three new, latest model, 8900 Special Editions that he was letting go for 25% off. Allegedly for their cash flow this month; would I be interested? I knew that the Acufeed 1/4" is an extra, so I casually asked if it came with that and he said 'no' but he'd throw one in for me.

Well, I confess I already had my card out in front of me. The deal is done and it arrives tomorrow............ and tomorrow is .............................. my birthday!! Karma or what?

Thank you all for your input.

anonymous

That is awesome, congratulations. Definitely seems meant to be. Happy Birthday!

Fabric Galore

I have had several Janome sewing machines and my 6500 was a lemon. Three bobbin cases replaced, issues with thread cutter, needle threader, etc. The final straw was when I took it to the dealer for service and I was told Janome no longer made parts for the 6500. It seems parts are only available for 20 years from the date of first issue. Be very careful when you buy a new Janome and if that model is 5 or 6 years old you will only be able to buy parts for 14-15 years. I have a Janome 11000 for machine embroidery and it needs service. I just pray it is nothing serious because I won't be able to get repair parts and I have a quilt about 60% finished on my 11000.

KalamaQuilts

what fun bobbinalong! I'm sure you'll have many years of pleasurable stitching.

mkc

Yes, the SE has a different straight stitch plate (and different, quick-set bobbin area - kind of hard to describe that one). Those are the main differences between the two and you can't simply use the SE plates on the non SE machine.

(ETA - I have to check, but I think there might be a 3rd needle plate with the SE as well)