Replies

1. 
   loomchick | Aug 08, 2005 03:04pm | #1

   I have a Janome and I love it! I've sewn everything from sheer lightweight fabric to heavy canvas . . . I use it most for sewing handwoven fabric.

   I've used overlock stitches in place of serging . . . although, I prefer using a serger . . . it's much faster.

1. 
   Thimblefingers | Aug 08, 2005 09:48pm | #2

   You'll probably still want a serger.  The serger cuts as it sews, which most machines don't do unless you have an attachment to go with it - I think Brother does.  Even then, it is very slow, and it's still a sewing machine stitch.  A serger is also excellent for sewing knits, as the serged seam has built in stretch and sews a smoother, flatter seam.

1. 
   loomchick | Aug 08, 2005 09:58pm | #3

   Hi!You may want to reply to the original poster . . . She was the one interested in whether she should purchase a serger . . . In my response, I endorsed getting a serger since I prefer using it instead of an overlock stitch on a sewing machine.

2. 
   feismom | Aug 08, 2005 10:41pm | #4

   I had a bad experience with a Janome I bought a few years ago.  A lot of yellow oil ran down the needle onto the fabric.  I figured it came from the factory with too much oil in it.  Eventually and in the middle of applique-ing a dance costume it seized.  I returned it to the store (still within the warranty period).  The machine was returned to me supposedly fixed (after the dance competition) but the same thing happened again on the next costume.  The machine was supposed to be a heavy duty but basic model.  I found it too unreliable to use and replaced it with a Husqvarna.

   I really recommend looking around especially if you are planning to spend much money.  My friendly Janome dealer wasn't so friendly when I started having trouble.

   Good luck.

3. 
   mem1 | Aug 10, 2005 03:10am | #5

   I have 3 Janomes which probably speakes for itself . I would get a Serger anyway as they are SOOO useful . They are good reliable and durable . I am happy with mine particularly given the cost of Vikings ,Bernia etc.

   They are a bit slow but that is a function of them being computerized and doing embroidery stitches . My old ZBernina is much faster and I use it for fast "highway sewing".

1. 
   txgrammy | Aug 16, 2005 12:23am | #6

   Do you have a Janome serger? I am looking at the 644D at the local Janome dealer. I have a Janome sewing machine and have been pretty happy with it.

   Thanks, Txgram

1. 
   mem | Aug 17, 2005 06:09am | #7

   Yes its a bit elderly and has been very good although I am now up for a new foot as its is getting very slow . I have given it around11 years of pretty thorough use .

4. 
   Dove | Aug 17, 2005 10:55pm | #8

   I'm a little late reading your question, but my answer is YES! I recently bought my second Janome, a 10001 which is a dual-use (sewing & embroidery) as an update from my 10 year old 8000. The 8000 never had a bit of trouble during the time I used it in my dressmaking business. I have a great dealer even if he is 40 miles away.

   Dove

5. 
   pottersews | Aug 19, 2005 05:55pm | #9

   Love mine!  Easy, great options, no hassle!

6. 
   Ckbklady | Aug 22, 2005 07:12pm | #10

   My serger is a Janome and I love it, love, love, love it - painless to thread, incredibly strong and so reliable - and it takes regular sewing machine needles (Schmetz) which saves money and special-ordering time.

   I have the Janome MyLock 534D (which is now called the 644D, I think) - fantastic machine.

   :) Mary

7. 
   Sewperfect | Aug 31, 2005 03:37am | #11

   I've had 3 Janome Sewing Machines after my Singers and I love them.  I will not buy anything else.  I've taught sewing with different types and I'll tell you that the Janome will outsew them all.  

   I have a brand new one for sale...... Janome 3022 for $300.00 canadian funds plus shipping....if anyone is interested.  I had bought a bunch for my sewing classes but have 3 left over. 

   Sewperfect

8. 
   camtidwell | Sep 07, 2005 07:45pm | #12

   I have four sergers.  The Janome is by far the best of the lot.  My main use is making handbags and this requires serging five to eight pieces of material together.  The Janome does it without any problem.  I have also used it one silk with good results.