Replies

1. 
   oliver | Sep 14, 2005 10:33pm | #1

    After owning a  computerized Singer for 28 years, I bought a Janome Memory Craft 3500 and just love it!  It comes with a set of presser feet I would have normally needed to buy separately and does more than my Singer could ever do.

   However, before I arrived at my decision, I spent about 1 1/2 years researching all the machines currently on the market, and it became an overwhelming decision.  I then had to step back and determine what I really needed to use the machine for (primarliy for apparel and home dec sewing).

   My mother has a Husquarvana Viking Huskeystar 207 (very basic model), and I can say that little machine is a workhorse.  I have made several panals of drapes  on it and have not had one problem.  I believe my mom paid about $250 about 4 years ago.

   My advise to you is to do the research before you head to the dealer (since they will try to sell you the most expensive model that you really cannot afford).  Once you narrow down your choices, then visit the dealer and "test drive" a few of the models in your price range.  (A few years ago, Threads did a comparason of the different basic machines within a certain price range, which was very helpful and informative). Also, you should be comfortable with the dealer before, during and most importantly, after the sale, should you need to have any repairs or adjustments made to the machine.

   Good luck in finding your new machine!!!

    

2. 
   MTothill | Sep 14, 2005 11:20pm | #2

   My two bits.

   I have a Kenmore 22 stitch machine. I bought it in about 1989 for around $300.00. It is made by Janome and I just love it.

   But a few suggestions:

   One: really think about what sort of sewing you want to do.

   Two: See if you can rent or borrow a couple different machines and actually sew a project on them.

   Three: Take classes where you can use their machines. This gives you to opportunity to learn new skills and try out different machines.

   Four: Consider a used machine. You can get more for less

   I did a combination of two and three when I choose my Kenmore. I took classes where they used Janomes, rented one for a month ($15.00), sewed lots of different projects, then made the descision to buy. I went with the Kenmore model as it was considerably less expensive than the Janome with the same features.

   Also ask around, you may know someone with a machine stashed in a closet. They may be willing to give it to you or sell it for a very little, glad to know it will be used and appreciated. But make sure if you do buy a used machine from someone other than a dealer, that you get it serviced before you start sewing on it.

3. 
   Pearl5 | Nov 09, 2005 12:10am | #3

   Hi.  I've had a Janome 4800 for several years and its a very good sewing machine.  No problems, no service.  I think I paid about $800 though.  Be sure you explore features you want and get them or you will outgrow your new machine before you are ready to purchase again.

    

   I have found dealers in my area to be friendly and knowledgeable and not at all pushy or inclined to steer customers to the most expensive models.

    

   Good  luck.  Do your research.

    

    

4. 
   SewCrazy | Nov 11, 2005 05:41pm | #4

   Hi,

   I've owned a Janome 826 for 16 years now and have had no problems with it whatsoever.  It's a very good machine with lots of nice features like automatic buttonholes (regular, round ended and keyhole) comes with quite a few feet and stitch choices including alphabet and numbers.  Have recently just purchased a Janome Serger too so I think for the money they are good machines.

   Hope this helps, although at the end of the day it is your decision and it really does depend on what type of sewing you like to do.

   Happy shopping!