Janome 7330 Magnolia Computerized Sewing Machine Review
The Janome 7330 Magnolia Computerized sewing machine is one of the least finicky machines for beginners (so say other users!).
It is the top of the line in the series and as I read over the features and functionality, I knew I’d just seen nearly identical performance in another machine review – the Janome AQS 2009.
Both machines are great for quilters, beginner or experienced, but whereas the AQS was built for portability, the 7330 is a full size sewing machine.
Read the rest of the Janome Magnolia 7330 sewing machine review below:
Table of Contents (jump ahead!)
Stitch Count Presser Feet Features
Accessories Customer Reviews Pros, Cons & Manual
It’s larger, sturdier, and comes with more stitches. All of the features that make the AQS super simple to use like push button controls, automatic bobbin winder, goof proof automatic tension control, start/stop sewing, and speed control are included in the 7330, too. (Of course, larger and sturdier often equate to a higher price and this one runs about $100 more than the AQS.)
The additional buttonhole styles and sturdy seam stitches on the 7330 are meant to assist with garment construction and the machine’s size, weight, and aluminum body allow it to tackle multiple layers of denim and canvas.
Stitch Count
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There are 30 built in stitches with the Janome Magnolia 7330, including 6 styles of 1-step buttonholes. Stitch width is adjustable to 7mm and stitch length is adjustable to 5mm, depending on the stitch. Simple plus/minus buttons control width and length after your stitch selection has been made. While thread tension is automatic and includes the Janome precision that produces smooth and controlled stitches, it is also adjustable as needed for more complex stitch projects.
- Straight
- Straight Stitch (needle in left position)
- Lock-o-Matic
- Straight Stitch with Auto-Lock
- Straight Stretch Stitch
- Durable Stretch Stitch
- Patchwork and Quilting Sculpture Stitch
- Zigzag
- Multiple Stitch Zigzag (Tricot)
- Overcasting
- Overlock
- Double Overedge
- Blind Hem
- Stretch Blind Hem
- Shell Tucking
- Square Buttonhole
- Round-end Buttonhole
- Keyhole Buttonhole
- Stretch Buttonhole Stitch
- Knit Buttonhole
- Antique Buttonhole
- Darning
- Tacking Stitch
- Domino Satin Stitch
- Decorative Satin Stitch fMC3500 (isn’t that a pleasant name? It looks like an elliptical satin stitch)
- Decorative Satin Stitch (they didn’t even give this one a number – poor stitch! It looks like a leaf satin stitch)
- Crescent
- Applique Stitch
- Patchwork
- Decorative Patchwork and Quilting Stitch
(The work involved in being able to list the stitch names in each review for some of these machines is truly an investigative process. Boggles my mind how many product listings not only don‘t list the stitch names but also don’t offer a picture of them. Do retailers really think people don’t need to know what the stitches look like that come with a sewing machine they might buy online? Beginners, in particular, want to know what they’re going to be able to do automatically with stitch patterns!)
Presser Feet
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Presser foot height has three levels including down, up and extra-up to accommodate thick fabrics and quilting projects. The Janome Magnolia 7330 sewing machine comes with four snap-on style, low shank presser feet:
- General Purpose Foot
- Zipper
- Satin Stitch
- Automatic Buttonhole Foot
Functionality
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This is literally easy, push-button sewing. The only knob on the machine is the hand crank. Everything else is operated with push buttons and sliders. Even the foot pedal is unnecessary using the speed control slider and the Start/Stop sewing button. There are buttons to select your stitch pattern, a button for reverse stitching, and a memory button to instruct your needle to stop in the up or down position as you need. Makes tight corners a breeze since you can keep the needle in the down position as you rotate your material.
For beginners, things like the automatic needle threader, automatic bobbin winder, top loading bobbin with see through cover, automatic thread tension, jam proof bobbin system, and a nice, slow-starting machine speed help you learn with far less aggravation than machines that have picky thread tension settings, more manual operation, or lurching foot pedals. One action that can result in thread jams is sewing off the edge of the fabric but not on this machine.
The drop feed dog system allows for free motion quilting, free motion embroidery, darning, and button attachment. With the push of a button, you can also repeat and reinforce your buttonhole stitches.
The Janome 7330 has a seven point feed dog system – one of the most efficient feed dog designs on home sewing machines in this price range. More points equate to smoother, more consistent fabric flow.
There’s a carrying handle, a bright LED screen display, work light, accessory storage within the extension arm, and the extension arm removes for free-arm sewing.
The Janome Magnolia 7330 uses the horizontal top thread delivery for smoother thread flow.
The needle position is variable with 3 possible positions.
There are several key differences between this machine and the next one down in the series, the Janome Magnolia 7318. First, the Magnolia 7330 is slightly larger, it has a better feed dog system, has more automation (automatic needle threader, push button controls, etc.), more built-in stitches, and 1-step automatic buttonholes instead of 4-step.
Update July 16, 2010: I went out to compare sewing machines on my potential buy list today, including the Janome Magnolia 7330. I was fortunate enough to find a local store that had a great selection of Janome machines to demo. While I thought I might prefer the Janome Sewist or the Threadbanger TB30, I actually LOVED the Magnolia 7330.
It had a slightly larger work space – maybe an extra inch or two between the needle arm and the body of the sewing machine. The stitches were nice and even (as I found to be the case with all the Janomes I tested). The base was wide and solid. The work light was bright. The sewing machine ran quietly and it was really easy to use. Just an overall attractive, well-performing sewing machine.
I didn’t buy it only because the in-store price was more than Amazon so I think I’m going to order online. If I do, I’ll do a video demo in the near future.
Update July 19, 2010: I DID buy it after all!!! Just got the Janome Magnolia 7330 and have been playing around with it. I’m inserting some pictures and my initial thoughts below. Keep reading!
Okay – I did it. I bought the Janome Magnolia 7330 and have fallen in love.
I actually have a picture of it in the box sitting on my table and then thought that might not be the exciting shot you’d want to see so here it is just unpacked with the styrofoam packaging behind it.
I was able to get a bobbin loaded and the top thread through the lay in slots easily. The directions were crystal clear. I thought it would take me a bit to figure out how to use the automatic needle threader but it worked like a charm, too.
The snap-on presser feet are a breeze to change – you just push the foot release button and the foot falls off. Slide the new one under the needle arm, lower the presser foot lever and the new foot snaps into place.
My two new favorite buttons? The Start/Stop button (I never even attached the foot pedal – just been sewing along with the button itself) and the Needle Up/Down button. I haven’t even used the hand wheel. Just position the fabric under the presser foot and one push of the Up/Down button lowers the needle into the fabric. Lower the presser foot and on you go.
Here’s a sample of some of the decorative stitches. I used a white linen napkin – the last remaining survivor of a set I once had – and some pink thread to see if the stitches would stand out clearly enough for a photo. I don’t think the picture does them justice. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve run my fingers over those stitches because they just look so pretty.
In fact, if I have one regret it’s that I didn’t hold out for more decorative stitches. I’m not sure what I’d DO with more of them but they’re so tempting! (I may end up with an embroidery machine one of these days…!)
Anyway, it sews like a dream. I hardly have to guide the fabric at all and there’s plenty of room for my hand between the needle arm and the machine and still be out of the way of the needle screw while it’s sewing. I had it on the kitchen table in the same room where my husband was watching TV. He turned the volume up a couple of notches but that was all. It’s really very quiet.
FINALLY! I finally got around to doing the video review of my Janome 7330. The challenge was finding a spot in my house with decent light so that the view was decent. My current project is a cover for my little baby. Just picked the fabric up a few days ago.
Dimensions: L 15″ x H 11″ x W 7″
Machine Weight: 18.2 lbs
Accessories
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The Janome 7330 comes with the following accessories:
- Screwdriver
- 4 Bobbins
- 3 pack of needles
- Seam Ripper
- Additional Spool Pin
- 2 Spool Holders (small and large)
- Spool Stand
- Felt
If you want to take the machine with you when you travel or need to transport it back and forth to classes or clubs get the hard cover carrying case. It’s Janome part #479701118.
Customer Reviews
“The Janome Magnolia 7330 is a “beginner’s” sewing machine, according to some sewing forums, but my feeling is that it really is a workhorse that does most things an average sewist or quilter wants to do, and while it doesn’t have all the features of a very expensive model, it delivers sturdy performance and enough bells and whistles to make it my new favorite “go-to” machine.” – Joanna Daneman
“This machine is defintiely quieter, is easier to use with it’s one button push to get the stitch you want, and the stitching so far is consistent and smooth in my simple mending projects.” – Rosie Matula
“I was actually considering the Brother CS6000I before I had even heard of the Janome 7330.” – M. Jacobs
There are 7 reviews on Amazon (some quite lengthy and detailed!). You can read more here: Janome Magnolia 7330 Reviews
Great for a first time sewer looking for a machine that will grow with them. Simple to use, powerful, non-finicky (referring to precision thread tension). Easily punched through 6 layers of denim. Strong enough to get through most clothes and craft projects. Detailed instruction manual. Easy, push button operation. Quieter than comparable machines. Smooth and consistent stitches. Easy to setup and go. Bobbin winder works very well. Many comments regarding the lack of “fiddling” or “adjusting” needed to work on your projects. Nice stitch selection. There is 1 review on Overstock for 5.0 stars.
Average Amazon Rating: 4.9
Pros, Cons & Manual
Pros: Push button control. Superior feed dog system. Drop feed dog system. Automatic needle threader. Top loading, jam proof bobbin. Convenient buttons for start/stop sewing, needle up/down memory, and reverse. Ability to sew without the foot pedal. Capable of handling thin and thick fabrics. Sturdy machine size and weight.
Cons: Presser foot pressure is not adjustable. Not a lot of decorative stitches (flowers, vines, shapes). Doesn’t come with a cover or case.
Manual available online here: Janome Magnolia 7330 Manual
Manufacturer’s Warranty: In the US, as of this date, the Janome Magnolia 7330 sewing machine comes with a 20 year warranty on parts, 2 years on electrical, 1 year on labor and may be voided by certain activities.
For current pricing information, follow this link:
Features Summary Review:
Tagged with: $300-400 • computerized • free motion embroidery • free-arm • Janome • Janome Magnolia 7330 • light-weight • portable • quilting • sewing machines • sewing machines for beginners • sturdy sewing machine
Filed under: Reviews
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Hi Erin
Great site! I love the detail! I would love to see the video you make for this machine.
I’m not a beginner sewer, but I am a beginner when it comes to researching my options in sewing machines. I’ve had mine for years. Now I am thinking of going with the Brother PRW420 for my next machine.
Rose, thanks for the compliment.
We’re taking a little break before the kids return to school (early August in AZ) and the video is the first thing I’m going to tackle when it’s nice and quiet and the kids can’t figure out how to stick a hand in the camera or manage to ask a question in the middle! Oh, the Brother PC420 is tempting – the number of presser feet, stitches and features is incredible (and you’ll know better how to use them all than I would!).
Researching options is exactly what inspired this site – my mother, who has sewn for years, said she struggled for information about various sewing machines when shopping for her granddaughters. If digging out information and making comparisons helps at all, I’m thrilled.
Good luck researching and let me know if I can help in any way!
Erin
Hi Erin
Great site! I love the detail! I would love to see the video you make for this machine.
I’m not a beginner sewer, but I am a beginner when it comes to researching my options in sewing machines. I’ve had mine for years. Now I am thinking of going with the Brother PRW420 for my next machine.
How does this machine compare to the Janome DC1050 and the JNH1860?
Tammy – The differences between these 3 sewing machines boils down to two main areas: stitch assortment and size.
Both the Janome Magnolia 7330 and the JNH1860 have 30 stitches but the 7330 has 6 buttonhole styles in that 30, a focus on stretch stitches and overcasting stitches and a few satin and decorative stitches. These stitches are heavily geared towards making clothes. Although the 7330 can do quilting and other types of sewing, too, the stitch selection for those other types is limited. The collection of stitches on the JNH1860 includes only 3 buttonholes, fewer satin stitches, more quilting stitches and an eyelet punch (for making rivet holes or belt holes).
The Janome DC1050, on the other hand, has 50 built in stitches including 3 buttonhole styles and a mix of quilting, decorative, and satin stitches.
The other significant difference is weight. The Magnolia 7330 weighs over 18 pounds and sits still while sewing. The other two models both weigh around 12 pounds and might need to sit on a non-skid mat to keep them from jumping when working on really large projects.
Outside of that, the features and performance are the same. They all have 7 point feed dogs, drop feed dog capability, twin needle sewing, Start/Stop buttons, reverse, Needle Up/Down and speed control. It’s just a matter of choosing the stitch set that will work best with the kind of sewing you want to do.
Hope that makes your decision easier!
Erin
So I have two dealers in my area, and I asked them both about machines. One store highly recommended the 7330. The other actually told me they don’t recommend it at all! They said their technician thought it was cheaply built and not as good as the DC4030. That one looks like a good machine, with some nice extra features, but it’s about $200 more than the 7330….
Why the discrepancy between dealer recommendations? It seems many people are happy with their 7330. Is that dealer just trying to get me to buy a more expensive machine?
(For point of reference, I’m looking to buy my first machine. I want to do mostly quilting and clothing– so I want drop feed dog capability, needle up/down, and the overlock stitch.)
Hello! I just found a used Janome 7330 on craigslist and I just love it. However, I would like to have the complete manual (I did download the partial manual but there is nothing in there about making button holes!)Can anyone help?
thanks! Linnette
Linnette – I just so happen to own the 7330 and have the manual right here. My scanner isn’t set up right now so I’m going to just type out the basic buttonhole instructions to get you started:
1. Press the Up/Down needle button to raise the needle.
2. Select your buttonhole stitch.
3. Attach the Buttonhole presser foot (R) (it’s the long, white one)
4. There’s a little section at the back of that presser foot that holds the button. Pull the button holder back, fit the button inside and push the pieces together so the button is firmly in place.
5. Tucked behind the automatic needle threader is a black buttonhole lever. Pull that down as far as it will go.
6. Slip some scrap fabric under the presser foot, push the Up/Down button twice to bring the needle down and up, and then remove the fabric to the left to draw the needle thread through the opening in the presser foot. Now you’re ready to sew the actual buttonhole.
7. Put your project under the presser foot and lower the needle into the fabric at your starting point.
8. Lower the presser foot.
9. Press Start.
The machine will sew the front of the buttonhole, then the left side, then the back, and finally the right side. Remove your fabric to the left and trim the threads. Put a pin at the top and bottom of the buttonhole to keep from ripping open the end stitches and use the seam ripper to open the buttonhole.
Maybe do a practice buttonhole or two and let me know if you need more info.
Sincerely,
Erin
Wow, wow, wow, and may I say WOW! Your site rocks! Incredible reviews. After reading many of your reviews and comments, I think I have narrowed my selections to the Janome Magnolia 7330 or the Brother CS6000i. The Brother seems to offer so much more for less money. But I keep coming back to the automatically adusting tension of the Janome. Of all the features of my previous machines that have turned me off sewing for long lengths of time, adjusting the tension is at the top of the list. But…then I go back to the additional features of the Brother. But…then I go back to the obvious ease of the Janome. Can you help with my decision?
Dru – I’m blushing! Thanks for the sweet words!
There’s something emotional about buying a sewing machine that makes the decision so stressful, isn’t there? That’s why I like to pull out paper and pen and make a list. List out the kinds of projects you want to do and the features you know you want. Then take your two choices and match them up against that list. Here’s where it gets difficult – BE BRUTAL.
If you already know you’d prefer a machine with automatic tension, then hold out for that. If you allow “reason” to have its say, too, you’ll end up with a machine that you’ll want to work with for years. (I know – SO much easier said than done!) 
Sincerely,
Erin
Being honest about what I’ll do made me eliminate the Brother SE400, which also seems to be an incredible bargain. But I knew that I would probably only use the embroidery feature rarely, and since that adds extra complexity to the inner workings of the machine, I thought it could just be more to break or go wrong. I think I read somewhere among your reviews that the Janome 8077 is the exact same machine as the 7330, except for the pretty flower decorations. Am I remembering correctly? There is a $100 difference in price, so for that amount of difference I could sacrifice the flowers.
Dru – Yes, the 7330 and the 8077 are the same machine – same stitches, features, functionality. Only missing the flowers and I’ll tell you, as cute as they are, they haven’t made me sew any better or faster.
Save that extra money for fabric, thread, and extra needles!
Erin
Thank you for this great review.
I´m going to buy my first Sewing Machine within the next weeks and now I´ve made my decision
The shop assistant I talked to yesterday mentioned the foot pressure adjusts automatically (?).
Mel – I love working with this sewing machine and I’m sure you will, too!
Yes, the foot pressure adjusts automatically. There are built in sensors that determine how much pressure the foot presser should apply in order to push the fabric through the machine so that the stitches are consistent and the fabric doesn’t creep or bunch up. Some machines allow you to adjust this pressure manually and those who have lots of experience like having the manual option so they can really fine-tune that pressure setting on some specific fabrics. For most people, though, automatic presser foot pressure is easier to work with and more than sufficient.
Enjoy your new machine. It’s so pretty, too!
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi Erin,
I’ve been reading over your reviews and comments on your website, and am SO glad that I have found it. It has been tremendously helpful in my search. I am in search for a new machine and have been overwhelmed by the choices and types of machines that are out there. I was recently given an old/used machine from my mother in law, and it has reignited a spark for sewing. I hadn’t sewed since I was in high school about 17 years ago. The problem is that the machine I have is a White sewing machine that is 44 years old and has major tension issues (this is the reason my mother in law isn’t using it anymore and now has a Janome machine). So, I initially thought that I wanted the Janome Magnolia 7330, but after reading your reviews and comments, I’m afraid that I will run into the same problem that you have . . . that I will want more stitch options. So, then I was looking at the Janome DC2010, and then realized that it is basically the same as the Janome 8050, but the 8050 has a lower price tag. The nearest Hancock store is 45 minutes away, and when I called they told me that they don’t have any floor models to “test drive” their machines. I don’t think that I will be able to find any other place that carries the 8050 to try out since it sounds like it is an exclusive machine to Hancock. I’m a little concerned about the weight of this machine, with it being lighter. Do you know if it has plastic parts since it is a lower price point? So, my question for you is, should I take a chance on the Janome 8050 and purchase it without trying it out?? I have searched all of the reviews for this machine online and couldn’t find anything bad about it. Do you know if this machine is known for having problems?? At this point, any newer machine would better fit my needs than the one that I am currently using.
Stephanie – I’ve not come across a bad comment or review on the 8050 either and the lower price tag, in this case, does not mean the machine has more or less plastic than the models that have the same set of features. In this case it’s just that the design is different and, if I remember correctly, older. I’ve seen this machine and it’s no less sturdy than similar models. If it were me, I’d take the chance on the 8050 if it has what you like. After sewing on the old White that new machine is going to sew like a dream plus it has the DC motor so it’s going to be capable of handling a great variety of fabrics very smoothly – great for quilting.
Sincerely,
Erin
Thanks Erin! I just purchased the Janome 8050 (a couple of days ago) and am very pleased. It is amazing how different it is from the old White that I was using. I am so happy to have all of the stitch options that the 8050 provides and with the sale price that I was able to get the new machine at. I appreciate your feedback!
Thank you for your reviews. I was on the fence but have hopped off and ordered!
Heidi – So glad! You’re going to love it.
Sincerely,
Erin
I just found this great local fabric store that has tons of fabrics. They have an area where they have classes. Out of curiosity I was checking out the brand of sewing machines that were in the room (3 of them). They were all Janome! I assumed they belonged to the store. When I asked I was told that they all belonged to different customers that were there to sew. She said it was just a coincidence that they were all Janome. I don’t think so. I think it was a sign from the sewing fairy! PS they were all less expensive models than the Magnolia. I can hardly wait until Tuesday to get mine. I have already purchased the fabric to sew a dust cover for my new friend. Heidi
Those Janomes are popular machines! Wait until you take that shiny, pretty machine out of the box. You’re going to be off and sewing in no time. I think I went through an entire spool of thread just playing with the stitches the first couple of days.
Hey, I just got my 8050 about two weeks ago and I love it!! Such a nice machine for a reasonable price!! But I have a question for someone – does anyone know the style of bobbin that it uses? I didn’t get more while at the store and it is kind of a hike. So, I was going to buy some at my local sewing store, but we can’t figure out which ones I need. Thanks in advance!! Lene
Let Erin confirm, but I am pretty sure they use the SA-156 bobbins, plastic, never metal, and also will accept the “J” bobbin, which I think is sort of a specialty bobbin like the ones that come in the Cherry Blossom Set. Congrats on your new machine!!!!
Definitely let Erin or someone else confirm and retract my last reply. SA-156 is for Brothers and I believe it’s the 15 that’s for Janomes, the “J” just being that 15 but Janome branded. So sorry!
No apology necessary – you were right.
It’s a generic bobbin that works in many machines and Janome just happens to refer to it as the Janome J bobbin in some instances.
I was so sure of the SA156 and then I saw all those other numbers and letters and was like oh no! LOL Thanks, Erin!
Lene – Sean’s right. All Janome machines use the plastic SA156 bobbin (part #102261103 but sometimes referred to as #200122108) except the 1600 series machines and the MB4.
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi Erin,
I’m so glad I found your site! Thank you so much for doing this for all of us that have no experience and feel daunted. I am a beginning sewer, but didn’t want to buy a cheap machine that I would have to replace in 1-2 years. So I thought the Jenome Magnolia 7330 sounded right for me! But I’m a bit confused on the prices out there. I was able to purchase mine brand new for $374, with free shipping and an included extended warranty of 5 years. However, I have no idea if that was a good price or not, because I don’t know the “original” price of the machine. I’ve seen everything from $399 to $6oo for this same machine. How do we know the true price of a sewing machine with so much variance?
Thank you!!!
Netty – Most products come out with an MSRP – the manufacturer’s suggested retail price – but they rarely get listed for that price. It’s just a guide. One thing I watch a LOT is prices. I’m pretty sensitive to the lowest price online stores for sewing machines and I’ve been watching the Magnolia 7330 for almost a year. I started watching the price before I bought and then monitored after as part of keeping this site up to date. Amazon has always had the lowest online price and that hasn’t changed a penny the entire time and it’s still about $25 more than you paid so you did good! For Janome models, Amazon is always a good place to check for prices because they’re almost ALWAYS the lowest and you might be able to use their price to negotiate with your local dealer if you’re buying locally.
Enjoy the Magnolia – she’s an absolute pleasure to work with!
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi Erin,
First, wow-what a great site. Easy to navigate and so much great information! The amount of time and care you must have put into this blog is truly impressive.
Second, like many of the other posters, I am having a bit of trouble deciding which sewing machine to upgrade to from my 25yo workhorse bernina. I have been pouring over your reviews for several days now, and everything looks pretty great – so too many choices! I was wondering if you had something to recommend for someone who’s main focus is costume designing, with a little quilting on the side. I like a few bells and whistles but I am mostly concerned with the machine handling MANY layers of a large variety of materials. (Vinyl, denim, lightweight leather, satin, stretch etc…) I definitely do not want anything lighter than 15lbs – my lighter machines just can’t seem to handle a big period hoop skirt!
The Janome 7330, HD1000 and sewist 500 are my top picks based on your reviews, but is there anything else I am missing for between $200-400? Is there one of these 3 that seems like it can handle heavy layers of difficult fabric? Any help is greatly appreciated!
Sam – Based on your need for a heavy duty machine, I’d go with the HD1000. The other two on your list will do what you want, too, but the 7330 puts more emphasis on automation and the Sewist 500 is smaller than you probably want. That HD1000 will power through your stuff just fine and hold up well over time.
There are a few I would have added to the list initially but my guess is you’d already weeded them out as you ended up with some very good choices and of any I would have added, the HD1000 would still top the list for your specific needs. Plus, it’s at a great price!
Sincerely,
Erin
Is the 7330 capable of twin-needle top stitching? I don’t see that mentioned anywhere in Janome brochures, but maybe I missed it.
Have you encountered anything in garment sewing that this machine can’t handle? Have you tried knit fabrics like ITY stretch jersey?
Thanks so much for all the great info here, you are a light in the internet darkness!!
Kathy – Yes, the 7330 does do twin needle sewing. There’s an extra spool pin for the second thread spool. You just have to buy a twin needle as that was not included.
I’ve encountered no problems using this machine on stretch materials. It’s a dream to work with and hasn’t failed me yet on anything.
Glad you like the site! (The internet darkness…that’s cute!)
Sincerely,
Erin
Love this review.
I also watched your review video
Im a new sewer and i want something nice and sturdy.
I was thinking bout getting the Brother XL2600i but this seems better.
I want something i can use and grow into without tension problems.
To also sew some denim and stuff.
What do you think? Or would you recommend something else for the price?
My budget was 200 but i dont want to be too cheap, i want to get a good deal.
thanks!
Vanessa – I feel like I’m about to cheat on my sewing machine…but…I want you to look at one machine before you make your final, final decision. First, I LOVE my 7330. Absolutely love it. It’s problem free, does what I need when I need it and never complains. Plus it’s just darn pretty. However, you do pay for the Janome name. If you really want to stick to your budget, then read my review on the Brother CP 7500. It’s under $200, has just about everything the 7330 has and then some. It has significantly more stitches and I have always wished I had more. It also comes with a cover and extension table which the 7330 doesn’t have. It’s not a Janome but it’s one of the highest rated Brother machines for it’s price range and the ratings are outstanding. It’s THE sewing machine deal of the year online in this price range.
It comes down to spending more than the amount you had in mind but absolutely getting a solid, long-lasting machine or paying less for a machine that has more but doesn’t have quite the same record for longevity (but not bad, either). If I hadn’t bought a Janome, I’d have purchased a Brother.
Let me know what you think!
Sincerely,
Erin
Thanks!
Earlier today I called a few stores (Im in Canada) to see the sewing machines they had.
Alot of people advised me to purchase offline so that I could test the machine, possibly get free lessons and have less of a hassle in case anything were to happen.
Unfortunately, most retailers around here dont carry some of these models.
One place recommended me the Janome 1122 which is said to be a very sturdy machine, and the Janome 423 as well as Janome 5018
I quickly came on your site but couldnt find any of these models. I tried to do a quick search but could barely find any information on these. If all fails, i will purchase the brother 7500.
Have you heard of any of these?
hiiiii Erin,
love ur reviews , great job!!!!,ok i’m new to sewing and i intend to do a lot of sewing with thick fabrics ,mostly african fabrics and i would love to have a sewing machine that is easy to use , last long (i dont intend to buy any other one soon )and has creative options as well …. HELP!!!!
xanielle – Thanks for the compliment!
Okay…I’m thinking something like the Janome DC2010. It has a DC motor which gives the needle a bit more punch and power when needed. It has 20 more stitches than the Janome 7330 and two more presser feet. Another reader just recently got a deal at her local retailer when she went in for the DC2010, they didn’t have one but sold her the Janome DC2011 for the same price. They’re great machines and Janome is well known for making machines with precise, beautiful stitches. They’re not cheap but they should hold up well to the fabrics you’ll be using.
If price is an issue, though, the Janome 7330 has fewer stitches but it’s a powerhouse and a pleasure to use. You can also look at the Janome 8077 which is the same as the 7330 but costs less (probably because it has no pretty yellow flowers
.
Let me know what you think!
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi Erin:
Great site. Thank you for taking the time to give us all the information on sewing machines.
I have not sewn in more than 20 years, I am retired now, and would love to spend some time learning/sewing again. I consider myself a beginner, so I do not want to spend too much on a machine. I do, however, want a new machine, preferably a Janome (Japanese quality, although I have been told that these models are not Made in Japan, but in Taiwan.) I almost made up my mind on the 7318, until I found your excellent website, so I have put my purchase on hold. Now I am just wondering if I should go with the 7330 that you and others love so much.
Your thoughts?
Thanks,
Mimi
Mimi – I’m in the same situation as you. I recently retired and want to take up sewing again after many years “off.” I’m interested in all the features Erin mentioned that are automatic in the Janome 7330 if I really take up sewing again. I took my first quilting class this afternoon and the instructor recommended Janome, in general, or Babylock after watching me struggle with the foot pedal since I can’t actually use my foot.
Erin, do you have any other recommendations?