New Machine

Hello everyone, I just joined the chat room. I am looking to buy a new sewing machine. I want one under $1000 and I will be using it for quilting but would like a nice selection of creative stiches for embellishments. I have been looking at the Janome 4120QDC. What should I be looking for? Feedback will be appreciated. Thanks,

Reply to
luvtoquilt
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The most important thing is not just to look at all that is offered, but to actually settle down and try the machines out. If you are perfectly happy with the first one you try, that's fine; but do try another - it might suit you better. One idea for your test is to take with you fabrics of different composition and thickness; and, also, a three-part sandwich of your own - using what you usually use for batting. Shops will usually have these, but they might well have been assembled to show the machines off to their best advantage (sorry if that is a bit sceptical). I have had a Janome 6500 for several years now and I love it - so I am not suggesting you shouldn't go for a Janome. What has made the most difference for me is the larger harp that the Janome 6500, and its successors, has. I don't know the 4120 without looking it up, but I suspect it has the 7.5" harp. I don't know whether any of the larger harp machines would be available under $1000? Might be, I just don't know current prices, in the US or, indeed, here in the UK.

Moreover, do not rule out getting a refurbished machine - from a reputable dealer, with a guarantee/warranty. You might get more of what you want. . In message , luvtoquilt writes

Reply to
Pat S

Pat's advice is spot on. Especially the bit about taking some of your own fabric. The stuff they use for shop demos is very often cheap (low thread count) and starched to paper stiffness. IOW, anybody could stitch on it with any size needle, even a dull needle, using just about any kind of thread. Not a fair test! If you want to sew jeans or delicate silks, take those fabrics to test.

And here's a plug for my favorite, the Pfaff: integrated dual feed! I love it!

Reply to
Roberta

I think Janome and Juki generally offer the best value for the price. (fwiw, I did a survey of sewing machines for a friend's book a couple of years ago, and sewed on most of the models then available from the major manufacturers.)

I just bought a Juki F-600 this spring (I primarily sew garments) and am really impressed with the feed system of the machine. And I really like the LED lights. I can even sew black on black at night again.

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Kay

Reply to
Kay Lancaster

If you buy a Janome please do it from a really good, trustworthy dealer that is in a stable business. Janome, the company itself was no help with my machine when it had a problem and the shop I purchased it from had gone under. Most of their machines are pretty well designed and made so not too many folks have to deal with their poor remediation but if you do you might be miserable. Just my experience.

I like having the larger harp since I MQ my own work. I learned the tough way I don't like computerized machines. There are few that are mechanical anymore but that is what I prefer. With the computer machines expect a shorter life span and more time in the shop for basic routine care. Taria

I think Janome and Juki generally offer the best value for the price. (fwiw, I did a survey of sewing machines for a friend's book a couple of years ago, and sewed on most of the models then available from the major manufacturers.)

I just bought a Juki F-600 this spring (I primarily sew garments) and am really impressed with the feed system of the machine. And I really like the LED lights. I can even sew black on black at night again.

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Kay

Reply to
Taria

I have a Babylock with a larger harp which I love, but one thing I don't think I could do without anymore is the knee-lift! It's like having a third hand!!

Reply to
Alice in PA

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