Buying a new sewing machine can be a daunting venture, where you’re buried in a range of options and difficult terms to navigate. It can be overwhelming, especially if you want something on the basic side.
That’s where the Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine comes in. It includes 60 built-in stitches, so you have exactly what you need and nothing more. As a bonus, it features an automatic needle threader and a lightweight design.
But not everyone has a great experience with this Janome. Some users found the included light was too dim, while others wished it could handle thicker fabrics.
Nevertheless, before you make your final decision, let’s take a closer look at the Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine.
Contents
Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine: The Details
The Look
The Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine looks fairly modern. It has an LCD screen across the front, surrounded by a teal border.
The rest is encased in white with a stitch chart near the back. The needle and needle plate are stainless steel, with an adjoining compartment across the front to hold any odds and ends.
The machine is fairly compact but sturdy.
Specs
- Weight: 12.6 lbs.
- Dimensions: 15 x 8.4 x 6.9 inches.
- Stitches: 60 built-in stitches.
- Speed: 820 spm.
- Computerized/Mechanic: Computerized.
- Bobbin: Drop-in bobbins.
- Warranty: 25-year warranty.
Accessories
- 7 Presser feet.
- Satin stitch foot.
- Zipper foot.
- Automatic buttonhole foot.
- Overedge foot.
- Blind hem foot.
- ¼-inch seam foot.
- Custom crafted zigzag foot.
- Extra bobbins.
- Spool pin felt.
- Needle set.
- Additional spool pin.
- Seam ripper.
- Screwdriver key.
- Lint brush.
- Small spool holder.
- Large spool holder.
- Spool stand.
- Extension table.
- Hard cover.
- Instruction manual.
Janome: The Company
Janome was founded in 1921, first as The Pine Sewing Machine Factory by Yosaku Osem and then renamed Janome Sewing Co. in 1954.
Janome 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 ensure their customers are able “to make the most of their creativity.”
The Warranty
The Janome 3128 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 owning the machine, you will be able to receive replacements for any parts that are defective, as well as any 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 caused by mistreatment or poor maintenance on the machine, nor does it cover “normal wear and tear.”
The warranty also only applies to machines that are bought through an Authorized Janome Retailer.
Features
60 Built-In Stitches
The Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine comes with 60 built-in stitches.
These include basic straight stitches, zigzag stitches, decorative stitches, and six different buttonholes.
This collection isn’t excessive but does provide you with a handy range that will serve hemming projects or a more complicated quilt.
Bobbin
This Janome sewing machine has a drop-in bobbin system. This means your bobbins are loaded at the top, as such, there’s no need to remove a compartment at the front of the machine; the bobbin is right near the needle plate.
Once you have it threaded, you can just slide open the door, slide in the bobbin, and you’re all set. If something goes wrong, you can see to it right away and access it without effort.
LCD Screen
Because this Janome sewing machine is computerized, it features an LCD screen. With it, you can view what stitch is selected, the stitch length and width, and any other options you’ve picked with the controls.
The screen makes it incredibly easy to determine your options and double check on your progress. Even better, it’s easy to read and very clear.
Needle Threader
This Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine also has an automatic needle threader. While this may seem like a small addition it saves a ton of time.
No more hassle threading your sewing machine and no need to dig out your reading glasses!
Controls
The controls on this Janome sewing machine are very simple to use.
With just a few buttons, you can change your stitch selection, start or stop the machine, cut the thread, change the stitch length or width, or choose the reverse or lock stitch functions.
No need to adjust dials or press levers; just press a button and get your sewing project done in no time!
Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine
The Positives
Easy to Set Up
This Janome could not be easier to set up – and that’s partly credited to the LCD screen and the automatic needle threader.
The machine handles the routine details you’d rather ignore, and keeps your status clear on the computerized screen.
You won’t have to have knowledge of sewing machines before jumping in, Janome makes it easy for crafters of all types to get sewing.
You can easily unbox the machine, have the automatic threader ready the Janome for a project, and then immediately select your stitch details. After that, you can dive in!
Easy to Use
Testers also noted this machine as simplistic to operate. Just press the foot pedal, or click the “on” and “off” button, and you can begin sewing.
If you need to cut a thread after a stitch, just press a button! If you need to do a reverse stitch, there’s a button for that too.
You can also adjust the speed of the machine by pressing the foot pedal or by using the slider on the front. It’s that simple!
Whether you’re just starting out, or have been sewing for some time, Janome ensures that this machine won’t be a complicated feat.
Versatile
With so many different stitches, feet you can add on, and a range of features, there are very few limitations with this Janome.
Whether you’re tackling simple projects or creating an entirely new wardrobe, this sewing machine has everything you need.
The extension table allows sewers to not be limited by the size of this compact machine. It can just as easily assist with larger projects too.
Chances are, with the number of features this machine has, you’ll be inspired to let your creativity shine.
Portable
At only 12.6 lbs., you can easily take this machine on the road or to transport it by hand wherever you choose. This Janome is lightweight and has a handle, making it an ideal portable companion.
Thanks to this Janome’s lightweight, it will be a great machine to take with you along to classes or to help assist with some projects away from your home or studio.
Its compact size combined with its weight means it won’t be a hassle to have on most tabletops, and you can easily tuck it away in your cupboard or closet until you need it!
If you’re a travelling sewer, or short on space, this sewing machine won’t be a burden to have.
Great for Beginners
Since this machine is easy to set-up and a breeze to use, the Janome 3160QDC sewing machine is great for those just starting out.
A number of customers purchased this as a gift for the budding sewer in their life, and loved that they were easily able to use and fall in love with this machine.
The automatic features are incredibly helpful, and the bobbin system is jam-proof, so new users are less likely to make a mistake.
Since it’s portable, beginners are easily able to carry this with them to classes or wherever they’re learning their new skills.
It can be daunting to start a new hobby with a large learning curve, fortunately, Janome makes it easy to adjust.
Durable
This is a great machine to grow with. It allows you to easily try out new features and designs without upgrading, and its construction is sturdy enough to last you through a number of projects.
Users liked the construction of the Janome despite it’s compact and lightweight build. Sturdier machines are less likely to skip on the table, resulting in mishaps so it’s a great thing to note!
The Negatives
Dim Lighting
Users said the included light was just too dim and didn’t provide adequate brightness to view the project.
You will need to sew near another light source or bring a light to you. It’s not the biggest issue but is certainly worth knowing before you make a purchase.
Not Great for Very Thick Fabrics
While this sewing machine can tackle a range of fabrics, it won’t handle everything.
If you’re sewing thicker seams or multiple layers of heavy fabric folded over each other, you may want to be cautious or avoid using this machine for those projects. It’s not heavy duty enough and may burn out.
With that said, anything from knits to cotton to leather to fur to even suede, as long as it’s not too thick, should go through this machine easily.
Here’s a video showing what the Janome 3160QDC looks like out of the box.
Overall Verdict
After combing through the positives and negatives, we do recommend the Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine.
With the number of built-in stitches, the portability, and the easy-to-use features, it’s difficult to uncover fault with this machine.
Besides the lighting issue and its less-durable nature, you should find this Janome a perfect fit for a variety of sewers.
Where to Buy the Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine
Janome is a name that’s well known in the sewing community. They’re famous for their high-quality, accessible machines and have years of experience being on top of the market.
This company’s products are available around the globe and their products aren’t too hard to locate. You’ll be able to find the Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine both in-store and online.
You can usually find Janome sewing machines in craft and sewing stores, but you can kick-start your search with the following online retailers.
- Ken’s Sewing Center (from $549)
- Sew Vac Direct (from $549)
- The Quilt Store (from $606)
And of course, you can also find this sewing machine on Amazon.
That’s the end of our Janome 3160QDC review. Tempted to give this machine a try?
Janome 3160QDC Review
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User Experience
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Sewing Specs
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Ease of Use
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Craft Sewing Specs
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Price
SFH Verdict
The Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine has something for everyone, yet no one’s left out.
It’s great for a variety of sewers from beginners and beyond, and its ease of use along with its many features makes it a machine that’s easy to get accustomed to.
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