Janome Memory Craft 11000 Review

Finding a computerized sewing machine that includes all the features you need and isn’t overly complicated? Nearly impossible!

Luckily, we’re here to narrow your search so you can get closer to that ideal purchase.

Today, we’re evaluating the Janome Memory Craft 11000 SE, which is difficult to find in stores. If you’re looking to get a hold of this machine, the best place to check is eBay.

As one of Janome’s special edition computerized sewing machines, it has a large LCD touchscreen, comes with hundreds of different stitches, and has the coveted automatic needle threader.

Unfortunately, not everyone had such a great experience. Some testers found it to be rather expensive, while others thought the touchscreen interface was too difficult to navigate.

Is this an overarching issue or a rare instance? Let’s take a closer look at the Janome Memory Craft 11000 SE and find out how this machine compares to the top rated models.

See more: what is the best sewing machine to buy?

Janome Memory Craft 11000: The Details

The Look

The Janome Memory Craft 11000 SE is a very modern-looking device. The focal point is the large LCD touchscreen, which takes up a significant portion of the rear of the machine.

There are a couple of buttons near the face, serving its individual functions, and the needle plate is constructed of stainless steel.

The whole machine is covered in white plastic with a few black accents. Size-wise, it’s not much larger than a toaster oven.

Specs

• Weight: 31.5 lbs.
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.8 x 9 inches.
• Stitches: 358 built-in stitches.
• Computerized/Mechanic: Computerized.
• Bobbin: Top-loading.
• Warranty: 25-year warranty.

Accessories

• Embroidery hoop-ST (with template).
• Embroidery hoop-SQ (with template).
• Foot control.
• Power supply cord.
• Knee lifter.
• Set of red-tip needles.
• Bobbin thread for embroidery.
• Felts.
• Stabilizers.
• Template sheets for built-in embroidery designs.
• 1 USB cable.
• Instruction book.
• Key icon reference chart.
• Instructional movie DVD.
• Handbook CD-ROM.
• MC11K Tools CD-ROM (with instruction booklet).
• Cloth guide.
• Embroidery hoop-AQ (with template and clamps).
• Overcasting foot C.
• Rolled hem foot D.
• Zipper foot E.
• Satin stitch foot F.
• Blind hemming foot G.
• Cording foot H.
• Overedge foot M.
• 1/4″ seam foot O.
• Button sewing foot T.
• Automatic buttonhole foot R.
• Embroidery foot P.
• Darning foot P-2.
• Even feed foot with quilting bar.
• Quilting guide bar.
• Spool holder (large).
• Spool holder (small).
• Extra spool pin.
• Spool supporter.
• Felt cushion.
• Bobbins.
• Set of needles.
• Screwdriver.
• Screwdriver key.
• Scissors.
• Lint brush.
• Seam ripper (buttonhole opener).
• Button shank plate.
• Touch panel stylus.
• Hard Case.

Janome: The Company

Founded in 1921 and first known as The Pine Sewing Machine Factory, Janome was started by Yosaku Osem and then renamed Janome Sewing Co. in 1954.

The company now has divisions in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe, Australia, and many more countries.

Janome’s stated mission is to provide sewing machines and sergers that are easy to use, reliable, and made of quality materials. They want to make sure the user can “make the most of their creativity.”

The Warranty

The Janome Memory Craft 11000 SE comes with a 25-year limited warranty. This covers any issues with the “materials or workmanship, with the exception of electrical/electronic equipment, which is warranted for a period of two years from the date of original purchase.”

During the first year of ownership, you can receive replacements for any parts that are defective, as well as labor, free of charge. After the first year, any defective parts can be replaced for free, but you must pay for the labor needed to fix your Janome.

The warranty does not cover anything that happens because you don’t maintain or repair your machine, nor does it cover any damage caused by “normal wear and tear.”

The warranty also only applies to machines that are bought through an Authorized Janome Retailer.

Features

358 Built-in Stitches

With 358 built-in stitches, it’s hard to be left empty-handed on stitch optioning.

This Janome sewing machine includes basic, decorative, zigzag, and stretch stitches, as well as thirteen different one-step buttonholes.

They are all built right into the device and can be accessed through the press of an icon in the touchscreen.

Automatic Needle Threader

One of the best features of this sewing machine is the automatic needle threader. Threading a needle can be frustrating, but this feature handles it in seconds.

To use the tool, start by holding the thread and pressing the auto needle threader button. The threader will lower automatically and a hook will appear from the eye of the needle.

Pull the thread across the thread guide and then pass it under the hook. Finally, draw the thread to the left and slip it into the thread holder.

Cut the thread using the thread cutter and then press the threader button again. The machine will pull it through the needle.

LCD Touchscreen

The Janome Memory Craft comes with an LCD touchscreen – and, considering the space it takes, it’s hard to miss.

This is the control center. You will pick stitches, different designs, fonts, stitch widths, and stitch lengths all from this screen.

It’s large enough to view your options effortlessly, and it organizes every detail into tabs, making the choices both easy to find and easy to use.

Top-Loading Bobbin

Another user-friendly feature is the top-loading bobbin. This means the compartment where the bobbin rests is directly next to the needle plate.

Not only does this make the bobbin easy to load (it isn’t in a hidden compartment), but it also keeps the item within your line of sight.

If there is a problem with the thread or it starts to tangle, you’ll catch it before things get out of hand.

Automatic Thread Cutter

One of the most unique features on this sewing machine is the thread cutter button. I

nstead of using a blade on the side of the machine, as with most sewing machines, the Janome Memory Craft allows you to simply push a button to cut your thread.

No need to use scissors or pull the thread to the cutter. It comes to you. You barely have to stop sewing!

Janome Memory Craft 11000 SE Review

The Positives

Versatile

With 358 stitches built into this sewing machine, it’s no wonder testers found this Memory Craft to be so versatile.

It’s unlikely for you to discover a stitch this machine doesn’t have. However, if you do, or if you are looking for a design that’s not built-in, there is a USB port located on the side.

Simply link it with your computer, find designs online, and transfer them directly to your sewing machine.

There is also the ability to wirelessly connect the sewing machine to your computer. This makes it even easier to access a nearly endless supply of stitches and designs.

Your imagination will be the limit when it comes to this sewing machine; perfect for helping sewers of all ages to delve deeper into their craft.

Easy to Set Up

With all the technology included on the Memory Craft 11000 SE, it should take you only a couple of minutes to set up.

The bobbin is easily threaded using the spool pins on the top of the machine. To thread the needle, you simply follow the numbered arrows on the front of the machine, and then, once you make it to the needle, use the automatic needle threader.

From there, you can choose different designs, stitches, and other options from the LCD touchscreen. You won’t be left too confused or frazzled when it comes to the set-up of your new sewing machine. This means you can get to sewing so much quicker!

With all the included accessories, you’ll have a world of sewing techniques at your fingertips with minimal effort.

Convenient

With everything on board and/or included with the Memory Craft, there’s no need for secondary purchases and no hassle in choosing your options.

Everything is just a press of a button, a flip of a switch, or a touch of an icon away. Testers found this machine to be especially convenient because of all the features included.

The automatic features take a lot of the daunting tasks out of sewing and will be a great help whether your still new to sewing or experienced.

The Negatives

Expensive

At almost $4,000 on Amazon, this is by no means an inexpensive sewing machine.

Yes, you get a ton of features included and, if you are a regular sewer who is looking for a top-of-the-line machine, the cost may be worth it.

Otherwise, there are plenty of more affordable options on the market. If you’re on a budget or are new to sewing, the price-point of this sewing machine may make it out of reach.

Complicated Interface

A few testers had issues figuring out the LCD touchscreen interface. It took some effort and time to learn the functions.

There is no question it is a bit complicated. With all the features, it may take some time to understand where everything is and find what you’re looking for.

However, the more you work with it, the quicker you’ll know where to look. And once you’ve figured out all its bobs and bits, you’ll find this to be a convenient, breezy sewing machine that gives you little to worry about.

Overall Verdict

After combing through all the positives and negatives, we do recommend the Janome Memory Craft 11000 SE. It will be hard to find another sewing machine with more features than this.

It lets you do easy things, like hem a pair of pants, as well as more challenging projects, like quilting. However, you have to be willing to pay the price for that level of versatility.

If the price is too expensive, there are still many options to choose from, but if this machine fits the bill, then you’ll be on your way to conveniently sew a wide variety of projects.

Where to Buy the Janome Memory Craft 11000 SE

Janome is a brand well-known in the crafting and sewing world, with years of experience and quality products under their belt. Their machines are known worldwide, offered by retailers around the globe.

However, this machine has become exceedingly rare to find in stores.

For the best deals, we recommend checking eBay, which has a steady supply of new and used Janome 11000 machines popping up throughout the week.

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That’s the end of our Janome Memory Craft 11000SE review. Curious to give it a try?

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