Product ReviewsJanome TB-12 Computerized Sewing Machine

Excellent, easy to use, powerful machine.

Love this machine. So much more powerful and "clean" than my previous, computerized sewing machine. Has all the bells and whistles I need for what I do: hemming my hand-woven pieces, sewing on buttons, simple repair work. The only caveat I would say, is that the threading is a bit unusual so follow the instructions carefully. Also is has a front-loading bobbin which I was not used to, but once I did it twice, no problems.

Again: clean, straight-forward, no nonsense, but versatile machine. Metal, Heavy Duty.

Love it so far.Read full review...

Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: new | Sold by: skymallus

Not worth the hassle.

I received what may be considered an abused sewing machine. The bobbin case was defective, which is a common problem with this particular model. The machine itself seems sturdy and would be nice if purchased new. It’s a roll of the dice with that bobbin though.

I ended going up a model to the hd3000 and haven’t had a problem. It has a top loading bobbin as opposed to front loading.Read full review...

Janome / New Home HD1000 review

Note: For whatever reason, the picture shows "Janome" but when I received my machine it says "Janome New Home". That's okay, I owned a Janome / New Home machine long ago and it was a great machine so I wasn't concerned. But it might be a surprise to someone who isn't familiar with Janome's acquisition of the New Home company (long ago) and the evolution of the brands, etc. No cause for concern.

I've been sewing for a few decades now, and I own a few sewing machines (I'm sort of a collector) and I wanted to add a basic mechanical machine with a front loading bobbin to the collection. I've read a lot of really good reviews on this machine and a few bad ones, but I've come to the conclusion that at least SOME of the negative ones stem from people either 1) not reading the instruction manual, or 2) not knowing some of the "tricks" of sewing on a mechanical machine.

First thing to know is that this threads differently from any other other machine I've sewn on. On most machines, the threading direction moves from the right to the left through the tensioners, etc. This one starts at the far right, moves to the far left and then to the right through the tensioners. Very odd. But if you thread it properly (per the manual) you shouldn't have any trouble.

The bobbin is easy to wind and load if you just follow the instructions. It's not quite as intuitive as a drop-in bobbin, but once you get used to it, it's very simple.

I think vertical bobbin systems (like this one has) deliver a slightly nicer looking stitch than the horizontal (drop-in) bobbins, but that's just my opinion, and it's really a matter of small degrees. I'm just picky. It's a very stable machine... heavy enough not to vibrate, but not too heavy to transport for classes if you needed to.

One helpful hint: In my experience, mechanical machines do better if you hold the threads (to the rear of the machine) when you are starting a line of sewing - hold fairly taut but don't pull hard - for the first couple of stitches. Otherwise you might get some "bird nesting" underneath your fabric. That seems true for all the mechanical machines I've ever owned, so it's not really a flaw or something I subtract points for... it's just the nature of mechanical machines, so be aware.

It was easy to change settings (stitch length, width for zig zag, decorative stitches, etc.). The accessory bin has to be removed to access the drop feed lever, but it's not hard to find or use. All in all, I think this is a very solid, high quality machine, especially for the low price of $299 (what I paid). If you go any cheaper for a machine, you're likely to get a plastic hunk of junk that vibrates like mad and may break easily. The HD1000 is very worth the money.Read full review...

Verified purchase: No

Heavy Duty Sewing Machine

I love my new heavy duty sewing machine. I have been looking for a true heavy duty machine and this is it. I just made a few items using canvas material and the machine did great.

Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: pre-owned | Sold by: splendidcommodi...

Excellent basic sewing machine

I was looking for a mechanical sewing machine to do the basics. Nothing fancy. This machine was the perfect choice. Great value for the price. Sews like a champ. It is easy to clean, and oil (routine maintance) I have been sewing for over 50 years and still have a treadle machine that I use for heavier fabrics and leather. I do the all the maintenance and repair work on my machines. That's the main reason for looking for a good mechanical machine. This machine has mostly metal parts. The body is plastic but that doesn't detract from its performance. This has a front loading bobbin as opposed to a drop in. I prefer the front loading. But that is a matter of personal choice. You cannot adjust the pressure foot. I wish I could but I solved that with a teflon pressure foot or a walking foot. It doesn't have all the fancy stitches that a computerized machine has but then I found that I didn't use them and didn't need them. You can do small quilting projects with this machine (wall hangings, table runners, etc.) using the walking foot. I haven't tried free-style quilting yet. All of my low shank presser feet work with this machine so I didn't need to buy new ones. All in all, I would recommend this machine to both the beginner and the advanced seamstress.Read full review...

Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: new | Sold by: mrvacandmrssew

happy

I love the sewing machine. it is very easy to use. only with the thick fabric I found out that it does not go through like the janome representitives says that it will. other than that I am very happy with the machine. I already have recommended it to friends that I know.Read full review...

Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: new | Sold by: mrvacandmrssew

Powerful, fast machine.

It’s a beast. This machine is having no trouble with 4 and even 6 layers of denim. The top speed is slightly too fast for me, and I have a good deal of experience. Great machine.

Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: new | Sold by: tradeportusa

This machine was better than expected. All original accessories were included (except for sewing needles which is understandable). I opened it up to o

This machine was better than expected. All original accessories were included (except for sewing needles which is understandable). I opened it up to oil it and it looks like the machine was never used; super clean. There were VERY minor scuff marks on the cover above the thread uptake. The estimated time of arrival was June 4th(?) I got it in 5 days (May 28th); lightening fast shipment to Hawaii!!!! Read full review...

Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: pre-owned | Sold by: compassroseranch

Love this Machine!!!!……..Can't say enough positive things about it; have put it through a lot of different fabrics. A GREAT BUY!!!

Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: new | Sold by: blinq

Great machine

This is a great sewing machine. I have sewn through the hem of jeans with out a problem. This is a gr at value for any one who sews.

Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: new | Sold by: blinq