It can be so hard to know what sewing machine will suit your needs, and with Christmas on the horizon, lots of us our on the look-out for a new machine. We've got some top tips from the experts at Janome as well as a FREE downloadable guide which you can refer to when you're out shopping for machines. Of course, this guide was written with Janome machines in mind, but this advice applies to all brands of sewing machine.

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What are the most important factors when choosing which sewing machine to buy?

Choosing a sewing machine can seem a dauntiting task, especially if you’re buying it for someone else. By asking a few simple questitions you’ll be able to make the right choice.

EXPERIENCE

Is the sewing machine for a beginner or for someone more experienced?

Generally beginners will probably need an inexpensive machine with a range of basic stitches, while an experienced sewist may require many more features. Consider if the aim is to progress as it may be best to buy a machine you won’t grow out of within a short time. Janome has an extensive range of models from standard mechanical models to very sophisticated and powerful computerised models packed with lots of easy to use features.

PROJECTS

What type of sewing will the machine be used for?

Dressmaking, home furnishings, repairs and alterations, upholstery, crafts, quilting or all of these? Look for the term “free arm” which will make sewing around sleeves and trouser legs easier. Larger arm space/longer arm models will help with those bigger projects such as quilts, bridal wear and free motion artwork projects. For crafts and quilting you’ll need a machine with a wider range of stitches. For upholstery look for a machine capable of heavy duty use. To complement your sewing machine and achieve a high level professional finish you’ll find an overlocker and coverstitch machine invaluable.

FREQUENCY OF USE

How often will the machine be used?

If a machine is only for occasional use such as mending or light sewing, a more basic model may be suitable. For regular sewing and where stitch variety is needed choose a model with a larger range of stitches, features, feet and accessories.

WEIGHT

Will the machine need to be packed away after each use or transported to a class?

A hard cover may be preferable for storage. Machines vary from around 5kg to over 15kg. Choose a machine for your needs e.g. if it’s too light for sewing at high speeds, it will jump around the table.

PRODUCT QUALITY

It is important that you choose a machine that will give you many years of good service. All Janome machines are built with either a metal body or a metal internal frame. Without either of these, stitch quality is likely to suffer after a period of use.

WARRANTY

Generally Janome sewing machines come with a 2 years parts and labour warranty. This can be extended up to 5 years on payment of a small additional fee.

What are the different types of sewing machine?

Mechanical sewing machines

Mechanical sewing machines are basic entry level models, with limited features and stitches. Models can have a 4-step or 1-step buttonhole facility and may have an automatic needle threader. They can sew most fabrics and be very robust however lower-priced models in this category are better suited to sew light to medium-weight fabrics. Generally they will have a convertible free arm which is used to help sew around sleeves and trouser legs. There are two types of bobbin systems used for mechanical models. One is a front loading system where the bobbin is inserted into a bobbin case and then slotted into a front opening on the arm of the machine. The second type is a top loading, full rotary hook system for an easy jam proof operation. This system also offers a clear view cover for the bobbin area which allows for monitoring of the bobbin thread level.

For examples, see the Janome J-series, such as the J3-24 shown below.

Computerised sewing machines

Computerised sewing machines are suitable for both beginners and more experienced sewists. They are more versatile machines with added features which help to make sewing easier, with more precise control and greater needle penetration power to easily handle thicker and speciality fabrics.
Everything is made easy as these machines offer many different stitch options which are selected by pressing a key or using the LCD touch display screen. Computerised models feature the ability to precisely control the sewing speed and adjust the stitch settings. Some models may have a memory facility to memorise favourite stitches and stitch combinations. A lock stitch button fi nishes off all of your ends and a scissors button can trim threads automatically before removing the fabric. Would you like a built in alphabet for sewing name tags and personalising projects?

For examples, see the Janome M-series, such as the M200 QDC below.

Computerised larger arm space sewing machines

Take your sewing to a new level with a computerised larger-arm space model. These machines are perfect for those who need all the best and easiest computerised functions, plus additional arm space for larger projects such as bridal wear, quilt making, home furnishings and creative thread painting. The sheer length of the arm space, 210mm (8 ¼”) to the right of the needle gives you space to create. These machines are a powerful tool to enhance your creativity, choose a 9mm stitch width model to further enhance the decorative stitches. Power, precision and spectacular stitch quality with a built-in AcuFeed Flex Layered Fabric Feeding System and an Automatic Presser Foot Lift function on the Atelier 7.

For examples, see the Janome Atelier series, such as the Atelier 6 shown below.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE SEWING MACHINE BUYER'S GUIDE