The Janome DC5100 is new for 2011 and combines a unique set of stitches and powerful motor with technology that promises to produce beautiful, professional stitches.
This is the sewing machine you want when you plan on doing a lot of sewing and when the appearance and quality of your stitches will be an integral part of your work.
(And I’m not just saying that because its adorable pink accents are a perfect match for this site!)
Table of Contents
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Stitch Count / Presser Feet / Functionality / Accessories / Customer Reviews / Pros, Cons & Manual
REVIEW SUMMARY
MODEL: Janome DC5100 Sewing Machine
REVIEWED BY: Erin
RATING: 5.0 
LAST UPDATED: April 9, 2015
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Beautiful Sewing Stitches on the Janome DC5100 and Lots of Them!
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There are a total of 167 built in stitches built into this model including:
- 95 utility and decorative stitches
- 5 styles of on-step buttonholes
- 67 letter font (upper case, lower case, numbers 0-9, 4 punctuation marks and a space key)
Stitch width can be adjusted for certain stitches up to 7mm and length up to 5mm. The stitch reference guide is easily available under the hinged cover on the top of the sewing machine.
Extra Value Comes with the Presser Feet Included with the Janome DC5100 Sewing Machine
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The Janome DC5100 sewing machines comes with 11 snap on, low shank presser feet,
- Zigzag Foot
- Zipper Foot
- Blind Hem Foot
- Hemmer Foot
- Overedge Foot
- Even Feed Foot
- Satin Stitch Foot
- Cording Foot
- Overcasting Foot
- Basting Foot
- Automatic Buttonhole Foot
Janome DC5100 Sewing Machine Features and Functionality
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There are lots of features that help you get sewing more quickly such as programming of your favorite stitch settings and needle up/down control. Features include:
- Top drop-in bobbin
- DC motor – A DC motor enables the needle arm to power through with as much strength on even the slowest speeds as at higher speeds. Janome has this feature on several models and those sewing machines are almost always described as “workhorses” because you can count on them time and again to work through all kinds of material and layers.
- Automatic thread tension control – Janome uses a roller style sensor that measure the thread being spooled off of the top thread spool and combines that information with data it measures about fabric thickness to determine the right thread tension for each situation.
- Automatic needle threader
- Programmable Needle Up/Down button
- 7 point feed dog
- Drop feed dog lever
- Locking stitch button – Pushing this button will cause the sewing machine to invisibly lock the end of a run of decorative stitches. No sloppy work or overlapping stitches at the end of your seam or line.
- Speed Control Slider
- Reverse button
- Memory up to 50 patterns – You can save stitch settings in the sewing machine’s computer memory so that you don’t have to reset the width and length of a desired zigzag pattern for example, easy to return to your favorite stitch settings.
- Auto declutch bobbin winder
- Extra high presser foot lift
- Backlit LCD touch screen
- Horizontal rotary hook bobbin
- Retractable carry handle
- Stretch stitch adjustment dial
- Buttonhole pitch adjustment dial – Keeps the parallel sides on a buttonhole even so stitch pitch and appearance is exactly the same – extremely high quality buttonhole appearance.
- 10 direct selection keys
- 3 select modes
- Horizontal thread delivery
- Built in manual thread cutter
- See through bobbin cover
- Maximum speed 820 stitches per minute
- Twin needle capable
The control panel of the Janome DC5100 sewing machine sits under a backlit LCD screen and the buttons are soft, touch panel areas underneath the pad.
This is a very solid sewing machine. The weight is substantial enough to hold up to large projects but not so heavy that you can’t move it around with ease. The DC motor is a huge plus and makes this an option for anyone interested in a heavy duty power house that can handle thick projects without bogging down.
Dimensions: Weight: 18.73 pounds
Janome DC5100 Video Demonstration
This video was done for HSN by a Janome representative. Just listen to how quiet it is! She walks through how the DC5100 works, demonstrates the features, discussions the Superior Feed system, and shows how the feet attach. In particular, you’ll see how well this sewing machine works for quilting.
The other thing I want you to look at is how easy it is to operate. Beginners – even children – will love that you can slow the speed and cap it at a lower rate so you don’t lose control of the fabric and run off the edge of your material.
One woman calls in during the demonstration and explains that she’s had the Janome DC5100 for over four years and gave her review. She absolutely loves it! She called it a “Cadillac”, even.
Janome DC5100 Included Accessories
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There is built in storage inside the extension table
- Screwdriver
- Lint Brush
- Bobbins
- Seam Ripper
- Large/Small Spool Holder
- Additional Spool Pin
- Felt
- Spool Base
- Hard Cover
Excellent Ratings and Reviews on the Janome DC5100
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As of the initial date of this review, there are no online consumer reviews as this is brand new and was just announced by the manufacturer last week. I’ve got a great local store that stocks lots of this brand so I’m planning a trip over to test the new ones soon. I’ll update this review when I’ve had a chance to do so.
January 21, 2011: I stopped my favorite local retailer today and while they didn’t have the DC5100 up and in the store yet, they did have the DC2011 up and ready to demo. It has the same pink theme, and let me tell you – that pink accent is really, really PINK and I love it! I’m going back in a week and should be able to test out the demo of the DC5100 at that time – more to come!
One more update – there are now five reviews on Amazon and all give it really strong ratings. It’s a prime example of quality and performance. It sews extremely well, the stitches are beautiful, it’s loaded with features and absolutely wonderful to use. (Can’t hurt that it’s simply DELICIOUS to look at!)
It has great power, is very versatile and will carry through from beginner to advanced sewing techniques. For a starter machine, it might appear pricey but it comes with lots of extras, will last for a long time, has the quality that Janome builds into every sewing machine, and will handle a broad spectrum of sewing projects.
Average Rating: 5.0
Pros, Cons & Manual
Pros: DC motor for powerful, reliable sewing. A number of features focused on high-quality stitch appearance. Sufficient memory for stitch pattern recall. Included hard cover. Letter font for monogramming.
Cons: Not an overly exciting font and you’re limited to just the one.
Manual available online here: Read the Manual.
Manufacturer’s Warranty: In the US, as of this date, it comes with a 20 year warranty on parts, 2 years on electrical, 1 year on labor and may be voided by certain activities.
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Features Summary Review:
Hi, have you had a chance to try this machine out? I’m wondering if it has a start/stop button. I’d love an elongation feature, but I don’t think it has it. Also, this looks a lot like the Kenmore 19233 that has been in existence since at least 2004. I know Janome makes some Kenmore machines (though, I don’t know if the specs are the same – certainly the service would not be the same.)
I’m just a little confused about the big new announcement if it is a machine that has been around for eight years. Is it the first time Janome is selling it under their own brand name?
Thanks, Vicki
Vicki – No, I haven’t had a chance to try this one yet. Last time I was in my local retailer they didn’t have it up yet but they had it in stock. Another visitor to this site recently visited another Janome retailer who also didn’t have it up yet. We’re having a hard time getting our hands on this one! It is very much the same as the Kenmore model – in fact, there’s a LOT of overlap between Janome and Kenmore models because, yes, Janome does a lot of the production work for Kenmore.
This is a new model for the Janome label this year and, of course, it looks different. Internally, there may be other differences. Janome carries a reputation for quality and, therefore, a group of loyal enthusiasts who are probably thrilled to see the style and options made available under the Janome label.
It is odd that it looks like there is no Start/Stop button. I don’t see it in the picture for this machine and I don’t see it on the Kenmore version nor in the product listing for the Kenmore. Odd considering it’s so convenient to have that with the speed control feature!
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi, Erin: I’m going to take a chance on the Kenmore as I just got a notice that the online price dropped to $249 (from $350) with free shipping. I need a machine for free motion quilting and wanted to keep the price lower. I had recently discovered a low tension bobbin made by Janome for its drop in horizontal rotary bobbin machines (e.g., this one and my 8077) and wanted to set up a solely free motion machine with it. For free motion, I’ll want to use a foot pedal. Though, if the bobbin doesn’t work with the Kenmore, I’ll end up taking the machine back.
Vicki – Sounds like a great deal! I’ve seen some videos of folks doing free-motion and it’s just incredible what can be done that way. Hope the bobbin works out for you! 😉
I tested the DC2011 today (he is hoping to have the DC5100 available Monday to try out). He confirmed that neither of these machines comes with a start / stop button.
I am a needlework designer (in cross stitch) and want something as my “hobby” as designing hand needlework is my “job” I’ve been watching free motion embroidery for years and finally realized its pretty much now or never (what in the world am I waiting for?)
I have really appreciated your reviews – it led me to my 8077 utility machine and a Brother for my husband to use. I’m pretty sure I’ll be getting the Brother for my two daughters at Christmas.
So glad the site has been helpful! I’m sure your work feels like work but it sure sounds like fun! 😉 I bet you do really well. Go in fearless, Vicki!
Erin,
I know I sound like a broken record, but I too have been researching embroidery machines for over a month and have not come across a website as helpful as this one! Thank you~ It is refreshing to find a site that is updated with the most recent info. I have been SOOOO FRUSTRATED!! I am looking for an embroidery or embroidery/sewing machine so that I can start a side business to supplement my income (I am a teacher…enough said!!). I have always loved needlework and have given it as gifts forever. Everyone says that I should market my items and now I am seriously looking into it.
I have sewn all my life, but never had an embroidery machine. What would you recommend for me? My price range is up to $1000.00 (I have been blessed to have my mom front me the money. But I realize that I must make a wise decision in my choice, because I will be paying her back. Therefore, I am nervous about spending too much!!!). What I do know is that I would like to be able to embroidery at least 5×7 or larger, have twin needles and automatic threader. Other than that, I am not sure.
I want to thank you ahead of time for your giving heart, encouraging spirit and passion for sewing! May the Lord bless you! Louann
Louann – Every time I see someone in the throes of making their sewing machine (or embroidery machine) decision, I remember my mother saying “You should do a blog on sewing machines. Trying to pick one is just a nightmare any more!”. 😉
Now, I haven’t reviewed as many embroidery machines as I have sewing machines but I’ll give you my two cents and maybe if you have specific questions about a few I can do some research for you to help out. As a mom of 3 boys, I have a soft spot for teachers, too, so I’ll help however I can!
That all being said, I’d focus on Brother or Janome brands, and since it sounds like an embroidery machine would suffice I’d stick with that instead of a combination machine (unless you don’t already have a sewing machine AND foresee a point in time where you’d need one in order to produce your products).
Keep in mind that you’re going to have to spend some money for accessories so set some of that budget money aside for thread, specialty hoops, extra needles, and maybe some software. Based on that, I’d take a look at the Brother PE770 Embroidery Machine with USB Memory-Stick Compatibility. My other choice would be the Janome Memory Craft MC300E Embroidery-Only Machine but the cost is significantly more and I’m not sure you’d get that much more out of the automation.
The Brother PE770 has great reviews, a USB port so you can download all kinds of designs, easy threading, and a 5×7 embroidery field. Several people on this site use Brother embroidery products to create projects they sell and they seem to be doing very well.
Let me know if you have questions and I’ll help find the answers. 😉
Sincerely,
Erin
Erin,
Thank you so much for your thorough response. Since I read your response, I have been pouring over the internet trying to make a choice and find a good deal!!! (not asking too much??? LOL!!!)
Well I have come across a Janome MC200E Embroidery Machine that is used. The lady says “It was new when I purchased it 7 years ago. It has not been used much, a few names embroidery on things for my children. I bought it hoping to make labels for quilts and might have made two or three labels. I have not had it serviced. I just finish using it for the one real embroidery project and it did a great job.”
It comes with the usual stuff and also has: Embroibery Hat Hoop Insert, Customizer 1000 Plus software, Compact Flash Card Adapter and Flash card,
Wildflower embroidery pattern. She wants $500.00. What do you think? What other questions do I need to ask her. I will have to drive a couple of hours to go see it, but I would like your opinion first.
I am thankful for your soft spot in your heart for teachers!!! Your boys are blessed to have you as their mom!! I am trying really hard to find a way to bring in extra income with an at-home business this summer. My son and his 4 children (8, 5, 4, 2) have lived with us since the end of November because their mom decided to leave and I need to be at home with them for the summer months.
I have read so many places that embroidery is an expensive hobby…. which makes me nervous. Expensive hobby or good way to make a little extra money? What a quandary…
I am not sure how to say this without sounding like I am patting myself on the back, so please do not take it wrong. My finished products are quality work, the more I do, the better they get, so, I do believe they will sell. But I can’t afford at this time in my life to take get into something that will end up costing me more than it will profit me. Do you have any insight or opinions that could help?
Oh boy, now you are thinking…. what have I gotten myself into!! LOL!! Thank you so much for you time and valuable insight. Louann
Louann – Oh, dear, girl! You have your hands full! I can’t begin to imagine what you and your son must be going through (having to lock my hands over my mouth about the whole mom deciding to leave issue – I cannot comprehend!!!) with those four sweet kids to care for but more power to you. 😉
Hmmm…$500 for a 7 year old MC200E that’s never been serviced. I’m not sure it’s a good deal, even though she’s hardly used it. You can get a brand new one on Amazon with the warranty for that price: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002NR5AMQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=sewingmach0b-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002NR5AMQ and free shipping. It might not have the hat hoop or the software and card reader but you also won’t have to wonder what you don’t know about that machine that might not be covered by any warranty.
I’m certainly not opposed to getting a good deal and I do think a used machine can be an excellent way to get more for your money but that’s the part I’m not sure about in this case. If you need the hat hoop and the software to do create the products you are going t sell and you’d have to buy them anyway so that buying new meant you’d be spending $500 plus the cost of the cap hoop plus the cost of software and the flash card then you might be onto something. However, if you don’t know that you’d need the cap hoop or the software and you’re just really interested in the machine then it’s $500 either way and new would be safer. Then you can decide later to explore software and see if there are free options that will let you do what you need to do.
Don’t forget to negotiate, either. You might mention to the seller that a brand new one costs $500 and you’d have a warranty and no service issues to worry about. If they come back with the fact that there’s all the extras like software and such, explain that you don’t even know that you’d need those items and that there are newer software programs out today, too. See if she’d be willing to lower the price. If you go to check out the machine, listen for any unusual sounds, pull out the bobbin and the bobbin case and look for dust build up. Bring scraps of different kinds of material with you and use those to test out the machine. Run it through several lines of stitches and see how they look. Does the thread grab at all? Attach all the different presser feet and test them out. Print out the list of accessories from the online manual at the Janome site and check them off to make sure they’re all there. Ask her to show you the software in action.
As for selling your goods, I believe you can do it! There are several really good places you can use online to sell your work (Etsy!) not to mention all the offline options like craft shows and through friends and fliers.
As far as embroidery being expensive…it can be. You need material and stabilizer and thread and needles but if you shop for deals (like you obviously know how to do) and if you keep good record of what it costs you to produce your products, you’ll be able to price those expenses into your work, add in the cost of your time and you should profit nicely. It will take some effort to build up sales channels but just keep pushing forward!
Good luck and let me know how it goes!
Sincerely,
Erin
Erin,
I just reread my earlier post and realized that I typed in the wrong model. It is a Janome MC300E. Louann
Well, phew. That makes much more sense and a much better deal. I should have looked up just one inch before I responded to the other comment just now. LOL!
Still check out all of those things I mentioned. Your biggest issues are going to be things inside the machine, especially dust build up. Follow the instructions in the manual to clean out the bobbin area so you can see what’s in there. My machine, even covered up, can get a fine layer of dust on the outside in just a few short weeks because of how often we use air conditioning here in AZ and the amount of dust we have outside. Seven years of sitting could really cause some issues if the machine wasn’t well protected. Just test the heck out of it, listen for funny noises and feel for stops, starts, and hesitations in sewing that don’t feel right.
And still let me know how it goes! 😉
Erin
Erin,
I decided not to check out that last machine. Too risky! I went to local stores this past weekend to look at machines they offer. I could only find Bernina and Brother. I was introduced to the Brother PE780d. They want $999.00 (but you do get lessons and support). I have tried to research the difference between that one and the Brother PE770. About $200.00 difference in cost – PE780 has Disney characters. Would you give me your input on which you think is better? Also, if I do end up spending $1000.00 would I be better off with the Janome Memory Craft MC300E Embroidery-Only Machine?
I have almost decided to go with the PE770 because of lower cost which would allow me to use the rest of my money towards needed threads,etc.
To get support from a Brother dealer, do I have to purchase the machine from them? This store does not carry the PE770, but I can ask if they would order it for me? Thanks again, Louann
Louann – I’m on it! I’ll let you know what I think after I run some comparisons. 😉
Thanks Erin,
I am doing some searching as well. Your are a jewel!! Louann
Thanks Erin,
I am doing some searching as well. You are a jewel!! Louann
Phew! I actually have an entire post of material on the comparison of these three machines but I’m going to condense it for you, for now, and then do the post later tonight or tomorrow.
The Brother PE770 and the PE780D are exactly the same embroidery machine with the exception of the included Disney patterns and the ability to read Disney embroidery cards (purchased separately). The two machines even use the same user manual – size, features, performance, screen, editing options, and non-Disney designs are identical in every way.
Here’s what you need to know about the Disney embroidery patterns. Brother has to pay Disney a licensing fee in order to sell machines with those designs. The price difference between the two machines is is surely there to cover that expense. However, those designs are for personal use only. You cannot sell merchandise with the Disney patterns on them as it could be construed as a violation of Disney’s trademarks and Disney is aggressive about protecting their brand. Those who prefer a Disney machine to a non-Disney machine probably have kids and/or grandchildren and intend to do lots of Disney baby items, clothing, and room decor for just their family.
Now, on to the comparison of those two machines to the Janome Memory Craft MC300E. The MC300E comes with fewer built in patterns (90 vs. 136) and fewer built in fonts (3 vs. 6) but it has a larger maximum embroidery size – 5.5″ x 7.9″ as compared to 5×7 for the Brother embroidery machines. It also has a larger screen size with a 4.7″ screen as compared to the 1.6″x3″ size on the Brother machines.
Most of the functionality outside of that is similar – Start/Stop button, accessories, on-screen editing, pattern modifications, and project tracking (stitch count and progress status) are the same. Some key differences are:
– how designs are transferred to the embroidery machine (USB and reader card for the Brother machines but PC link and ATA reader card for the Janome)
– .pes embroidery files for the Brother machines vs. .jef for the Janome
– ability to rotate designs in degrees of 1, 10, and 90 degree increments on the Brother embroidery machines whereas the Janome only rotates in 45 degree increments
– the Janome has upper and lower thread sensors to warn you of thread breakage or low thread, the Brother machines do not
– the Brother machines have programmable thread cutter, the Janome does not
There’s one neat attachment you can get for the Janome MC300E, though, and that is a Janome Memory Craft Clothsetter 10000. It lets you perfectly position your fabric if you’re doing really large designs outside of the maximum hoop size. It’s like a plastic table with a set of cross-hairs carved into an attached plastic arm. If you were embroidering the edge of a long tablecloth, you would embroider as much of the pattern as fit inside the hoop, remove the hoop, use the cross-hairs to mark your spot, reposition your hoop and continue on. While you can do the same thing manually with the Brother machines, this seemed a little more precise.
So your first option is to pay <$700 for the Brother PE770 or you could pay an extra $200 just for the ability to embroider Disney patterns (PE780D), or you could pay an extra $300 for a slightly larger embroidery size, larger screen, a few more editing options and maybe some time savings in re-hooping (Janome Memory Craft Clothsetter 10000). Quality of the stitches for the two Brother machines is going to be the same whereas the Janome might be slightly better. You’d have to decide for yourself how that would play into your specific business objectives.
As I said, I have a lot of other information here so ask away if you have a specific question! 😉
Sincerely,
Erin
Hi, love the write up, I am also from Az, were you able to find a dealer that actually has one of the dc5100 in their shop? Would love to buy one at an actual shop but cannot find it anywhere!
If you can find it anywhere in AZ, it’ll be at Mulqueen’s. They have several locations throughout the state and they’re wonderful!
Sincerely,
Erin
Erin, Well….I still have not purchased a machine. I had decided to go with the PE770. Then on Mother’s Day, we went to my in law’s house and I saw that my mother in law had an unopened Brother Innov-ís 950D. Unfortunately she has not felt well enough to open it or try it out and doesn’t know that she ever will be able to. She offered for me to use it, but I don’t know for how long….. I began thinking about what all embroidery machines have to offer and then thought about my present machine, a PS1000 (I have an old black Singer from the ancient Homemaking days in High School as well!!). Well, in looking at my PS1000 as my main sewing machine, I was wondering if it had all the bells and whistles that I need for my projects. Therefore, my dilemma now is, do I purchase a newer updated sewing machine (with knowledge I will be able to borrow my mother in law’s embroidery machine for awhile) or go ahead and purchase the embroidery machine? I looked at the Brother PC-420 PRW. The number of different stitches available as well as the alphabet and number fonts is quite enticing. If I do go with a sewing machine, I really do want it to have the alphabet/number fonts. I am SOOOO EXCITED about making a decision and getting set up. I have already bought material and my wheels are turning!!! I have POURED over your site and made notes on all of the sewing machines you have mentioned, but just need a little ‘push’ to make my decision. BTW, your write up comparing the different embroidery machines was AWESOME! Thank you so much for all of your time and unending wonderful advice. Louann
Louann – I’m pouring over our previous exchanges trying to figure out why the Brother SE400 (detailed overview here) is not on your list. If there was a reason we crossed this one off, I don’t remember. 😉
It’s nearly identical to the Innov-is 950D except it’s not a Disney machine. It sews and does embroidery and it’s highly rated by lots of users for both aspects. In fact, it’s the most popular post on my site.
It comes with lots of stitches, 5 alphabet fonts, built in embroidery patterns, a USB port for downloading more patterns, and lots of automation. It has a maximum embroidery field of 4 inches x 4 inches but you can do larger designs by repositioning your work and chunking up your designs.
Let me know what you think. If that one isn’t an option, let me know what percentage of your time is done sewing vs. doing embroidery. Or, if embroidery is going to be new for you, what do you think your percentage of time would be for sewing vs. embroidery if you had a machine for each available to you.
Sincerely,
Erin
HI, I like all your information and comments. I have been struggling on machines….I do a lot of quilting and with several grandbaby’s and quilt, comforter projects in the works; my old machine died….i have narrowed it down to Janome…scared of the singer problems I have been reading about…I want something that will endure the thick layers of quilting/comforters and yet have some fancy stitches. I want stop/button feature and I was disappointed that the 5100 does not have it….what do you think of the 3050 and dc2100…so confused…been reading blogs and reviews and they seem to be a heavy duty machine?????????
Vaunda – All 3 machines will hold up to the thick layers of quilting materials for your projects. They all have 7 point feed dogs and a DC motor for extra power. I can’t say enough wonderful things about Janome so I think you’re making a great, long-term decision. The DC3050 and the DC2010 are both great machines. Those two machines have the same exact 50 built in stitches so choosing between them comes down to price and some slight differences in controls. The Janome DC3050 comes with some single stitch selection buttons so you don’t have to scroll through buttons to get to the most used stitches.
A plus for the DC2010, though, is that it comes with a couple of extra presser feet that do not come with the DC3050.
Both machines are the same size and weight.
If you can live without the single stitch selection buttons, compare prices between the two and buy the one that costs less to save a few bucks.
Sincerely,
Erin
what is memorized up/down needle, I still like the 5100….? Thanks for all the info on the 3050 and 2010 is the 2011 much different than the 2010? I got a great opportunity on a 500 with :
167 built in stitches
5 built in automatic one-step buttonholes
Memory up to 50 patterns
vaunda
sorry about wrong machine #, 5100 …..GETTING LATE…BUT CANT SLEEP THINKING ABOUT WHAT TO GET!
I’m in the process of deciding between the Janome Magnolia 7330 (cheapest), DC2011 and the DC5100. If I get the Magnolia I’ll have some room to buy an inexpensive serger as well. I’m leaning toward the DC2011, I’m not sure if all the stitches in the 5100 will be more than I will ever use. Any opinions? Is there a machine I should be considering that I’m missing? Most of my sewing is garment and simple quilt sewing. I’m currently using a very basic (and VERY frustrating machine) so I think any of these will be a major upgrade.
Thanks!
Amy
Hi,
I am buying a sewing machine for the first time and have a budget of $600. I have narrowed it down to 2 choices: The Janome DC5100 and the Janome 3160QC. My intentions are to learn how to make clothing and quilts/blankets. Any advice you have would really help. I am so confused as to all the different sewing machine types and features. Thanks.
My 11 yr old dtr wants a sewing machine,she is pretty crafty and wants to learn to sew.Her grand mom sews some and promised to teach her.What should I start her out on? She has been wanting 1 for a couple of hrs. She can sew some free hand . I don’t have a clue..thanks,Gina
Gina – A lot depends on how much you want to spend. There’s a very highly rated Brother sewing machine for under $100 that works great as a starter sewing machine – the Brother XL2600i (see the features here). That machine is very easy to use, has a drop-in bobbin, a selection of stitches and some very nice features for the price.
If you’re willing to spend a little more, take a look at the Brother CP-7500 (my overview). It’s identical to the most popular Brother model under $200, the CS6000i (read more here), but has 10 more stitches. There are lots of buttons and automation built into this model – more than you’d get on most other brands for the same price and a strong performance rating from other consumers. It’s one of the best value buys online.
All of those machines will handle clothes, quilting, and craft sewing but the stitch selection and automation are obviously greater on the other two models.
Hope that helps!
Sincerely,
Erin
Need a new sewing machine. Do alot of basic sewing – both repairs and new, clothes, zippers, on all sorts of material including jeans. Currenty machine is 30 years old and has been very very reliable until the last 3 years- Is a “Nelco”. I also make quite a few queen size quilts such as “double wedding ring” Have looked at Singer 9960, Husqvara-Viking – Sapphire 875 and Tribute 140C, Brother just in general, and want to look at Jamone. Currently I hand stitch my quilts on Quilting bars, but may want to consider trying to machine quilt, so would possibly like that option on a new machine. Want some of the new fancier options but don’t need them all, as my current machine is only basic with like 10 stiches.
Any recommendations as to the most reliable brand and models I should look at. Currently only very confused, price range – pretty open.
I purchased the Janome DC-5100 and so far I LOVE it! I am a casual seamtress, mainly crafty items and quilting basics. This machine seems to have the power to sew through layers of fabric; with the optional table extender it is fabulous for free motion quilting; and the speed control is so nice for those intricate projects that need a little extra attention. I was hoping for more lettering fonts in a machine, but the salesperson showed me some free motion lettering that with a little practice seemed doable for my needs. I am taking some quilting classes and the 5100 is lightweight enough for me to travel with. It comes with an array of feet that seems like everything I’d ever really need. I appreciate the electronic readout that shows which presser foot goes with each stitch, too. For the money, I think it’s a winner in the midprice range.
Hi Erin,
I found your reviews while looking for information on the Janome DC5100 and the DC2013. I read what you had to say about the DC2010 and I assume that the 2013 is similar? I’ve spent the past 8-10 years fighting with a cheap Singer and I’m ready for something that does automatic buttonholes, has pretty stitches, and doesn’t have issues on several times a year, making me not want to deal with sewing. I sew clothes for myself and my kids, do some crafty sewing, and occasionally some home decor and small (baby size) quilts. I consider myself an advanced beginner, but would like to have a machine that will grow with me. Both machines are within my budget and I like the extra variety of stitches on the 5100, but I wonder about the superior feed system (or whatever it was called – it’s late at night here) on the 2013. I am planning to check into trying out a machine, but I’m not sure either machine is available for test sewing in my area.
Can you give me any advice? Thanks!
Hi Erin,
I am writing to ask your opinion on which machine to go with! I am looking to buy another machine and am torn between getting a Kenmore 19233 (which is the Sears version of the Janome DC5100) or a Brother 420PRW. I have a Janome MC6300P and love love it but it does not have the free arm. I am impressed with the weight of the Brother machine (25lbs) and the number of features on it but have also heard many great things about the Janome/Kenmore and since I know first hand about the quality of Janome and afraid to switch brands. Also the Brother only has 6-point feed dogs whereas the Janome has 7-pt feed dogs, not sure if this would make a big difference or not. In a way it would be fun to try a different model but want to make sure I am not making the wrong choice.
Chris – I’d go for the Kenmore and here’s why. That machine is worth more than you’ll find it for online these days. Kenmore has stopped making them so there are only a limited number left and the price seems to be extremely reasonable and cheaper than the Brother. You’ll get more stitches overall, still have the letter fonts, the feel of Janome which you already know you like, and the same Janome stitch quality that I’m sure you’ve also noticed with your other machine. I’m seeing at a few places online for $299 and that’s a lot less than the Brother. I think the Kenmore is a steal that won’t be available for long and you’re in a good position to benefit from that situation. 😉
Sincerely,
Erin
Thank you Erin for your response! I have decided to go with the Kenmore, I was leaning that way but am very appreciative of your opinion. It’s so hard to decide sometimes when looking at sewing machines to know which one to go with. I love your website it’s been extremely helpful in providing the information about different models and has made me feel confident in my purchase of a quality machine.
Sincerely,
Chris
I have a new Janome DC5100 and am frustrated that the horz spool holder stick (and vert second thread spool holder stick) are too short for a small cone of thread. Is there a Janome adapter or a work around? I’m new to sewing… Thank you.
Erin, I am new to sewing/quilting and just bought the DC5100 machine new and was wondering what bobbins are compatible (besides going to the quilting store and buying Janome bobbins). It came with only 4 bobbins and I have various colors wound on all of them. Thank you.
BTW, how does one get thread off a bobbin? Just manually unwind it? And can it usually be reused at that point or do you recommend throwing it away?
Erin,
I am looking for a new machine to take to retreats with me. I have the Janome Memory Craft 6600 but it is just too heavy to take along. I like the stitch quality of the Janome and thought I would stay with that. There are only a few features that I really want and they are:
* light weight
* speed, the faster the better
* No hesitation on the first stitch. I HATE this on my 6600 and absolutely don’t want another machine that takes a slow stitch every time I start stitching. When I floor it I want the machine to start!
* A blanket stitch that goes over the stitching twice, like stitch #37 on my 6600. I like this one for applique because it gives a nice double layer of thread.
Other things that would be nice but aren’t must haves:
* needle threader
* button to cut the bobbin threads at the end of a seam
* top feed dogs
So, which machines do you recommend for me?
thanks
Mindy
Hi – Can you help me? Can’t find any help on the Web but no matter what I do my maching (Janome dc5100) stitches for a fews seconds then beeps. I believe that I have threaded it correctly. Any suggestions? I am desperate.
I just bought a Janome dc5100 today
What is the start stop feature everyone is talking about? That it died t have ??
Linda
I don’t think that the Janome DC5100 has a start stop button. You can find the specs on https://www.erinsayssew.com/janome-dc5100-sewing-machine-review/#more-2477
We bought the Janome Memory Craft 5200 last year and this machine has the start/stop feature.