Janome Sewing Machines - Janome Harmony 8048 Review

I do own two other sewing machines:  a basic Brother model as well as a Brother Sewing/Embroidery SE270D computerized model.  I got the first $99 Brother several years back as sort of an adult version of "My First Sewing Machine."  I was new to the craft and didn't want to invest much in equipment in case I discovered I suck at stitching.  Turns out, I didn't suck at all!  In fact, my projects consistently turned out better than expected.  I felt it was time to upgrade to a better machine.  Enter the Janome 8048 Harmony.

My husband surprised me with the gift of the Janome after doing a little research.  The machine has a hard plastic carrying cover, free-arm capability, and comes with 21 standard accessories including 7 specialty presser feet, quilter bar, bobbins, and assorted notions.  The instruction booklet is easy to understand, and is complete with illustrations and descriptions of the parts and functions available.  In addition, the small computerized screen allows you to easily select your stitch pattern, width and length, and needle position with the touch of a finger. There are also functions for automatic button sewing and buttonholes, needle up/down, feed dog position, auto Lock-a-Matic, and a handy thread cutter.

Getting started on the Janome 8048 was deliriously easy.  I find the threading system to be so simple that I can practically do it with my eyes closed.  Add in the self-threading needle (no more squinting) and you can get up and sewing in no time.  The bobbin is also a breeze to wind.   Once the bobbin is wound, simply drop it into the holder located on the front base of the machine.  The seam grid on the bobbin cover helps keep your fabric straight, and the clear plastic cover allows you to see how much thread is left on your bobbin spool.  Although this is a small detail, it's a huge improvement over the sideways bobbin-case system on my basic Brother.  It's nice to be able to see at a glance if you have enough thread to finish a seam before you start sewing.

As for performance, I've had the machine for a few years now, and it is still humming along.  I did crack the plastic part of the walking foot so I can't use the quilting bar anymore.  Still, that's the only issue I've had, and a presser foot can be easily replaced.  I continue to use the Janome for the majority of my sewing, even though I subsequently received a Brother sewing/embroidery machine.  The embroidery machine is great for embroidered elements that I add to my projects.  But its design is more complicated  (It takes me at least 3 tries to thread the fancy cartridge), more quirky, and just not as efficient as old reliable Janome.  The Janome even has a built-in appliqué stitch that I personally think is nicer than any of the appliqué stitches on the more expensive Brother 270D.

All in all, the mid-priced Janome has proved to be a stable performer for me.  Although I may end up with fancier sewing machines in the future, it will continue to serve as the foundation of my sewing room.