Question 1

Is this machine worth taking a chance on? There are enough very negative reviews to make me reconsider.

Accepted Answer

I have had two of these machines. My first machine ended up being used a lot by a family member so I gave her that one and bought another one for myself.  When I read the negative reviews, I honestly think at least SOME of them were written by people who are either newbies to sewing or people who have never used the older style mechanical machines (which is what I learned on many years ago).  A few tips: 1) Read the manual when you go to thread it.  The thread goes through the tensioners from left to right, whereas almost every other machine I know of goes from right to left.  So I think some people assume they know how to thread it and then wonder why it doesn't work right.  2) Mechanical machines do best if you hold onto the threads when starting a line of sewing.  Hold the threads taut (not super tight) for the first few stitches and that will eliminate the "bird nesting" problem (thread bunching up below).  About me:  I have owned probably 25+ sewing machines (I like to experiment) and I currently own 6 machines (two Berninas, two Janomes, a Juki and an Elna) and this is my second favorite machine of them all. (The Juki is my favorite.) This machine makes a nice stitch and is quiet, simple to use, and powerful.  Give it a try.

Question 2

Will this sewing machine sew heavy leathers like belts?

Accepted Answer

This machine has a full 1-amp motor.  Most regular sewing machines have 0.5 or 0.6 amps... my Juki HZL F-600 has a relatively powerful 0.9 amp motor, still not quite as powerful as this Janome but close.  If you use the right kind of needle made for leather, you can sew through one layer of medium leather without a problem, but if you're talking about very thick leather or multiple layers, I'd go with a specialty / industrial machine.  They're expensive but if you check out yard sales, estate sales, and used machines you might be able to find something reasonably priced.

Question 3

How fast is this machine?

Accepted Answer

Hi, the speed of the machine is "medium" as there is no speed dial on it. Very surprising though.  The machine is just aesthetic, looks professional but the speed is regular use.

Question 4

How long is the arm?

Accepted Answer

6.4 inches of workspace on the inside of the machine sewing project area.

Brand	Janome
Model Number	001HD1000BE
Colour	Black
Product Dimensions	16 x 39.62 x 31.5 cm; 7.62 kg
Auto Shutoff	No
Special Features	15 built in stitches
Item Weight	7.62 kg

JanomeHD1000 Black Edition Sewing Machine with 14 Stitches, Buttonhole, Automatic Needle Threader and Drop Feed

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