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Average Review:  Number of reviews: 50
A reviewer
from LEXINGTON, SCEXCELLENT!!! THIS PRODUCT IS EXCELLENT FOR A BEGINNER!!!! I DID NOT KNOW HOW TO OPERATE A SEWING MACHINE AT ALL 2 MONTHS AGO. NOW I AM SEWING UP A STORM AND READY TO GET A BIGGER MACHINE!!
A reviewer
from San Antonio, TXwish i could have given this 5 stars but... it was only somewhat what i expected.the foot pedal feels like very cheap toylike plastic i feel like if i step on it too hard it will break.i also dont like the plastic presser foot.on the other hand it was very easy to figure out and i love the size and weight.perfect for my random craftings.i cant wait to make all kinds of things starting with a cover for it so it doesnt get all dusty.i would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants to start crafting or have a take along machine. :) 
A reviewer
from Bradenton, FLGreat little machine I bought two of these machines during the holidays when they were on sale. I gave them to my granddaughters and they love them. I was EXTREMELY surprised at how well they stitched and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a first machine for a child. I'm an avid sewer, and I want to pass that passion to my grandchildren. This machine is definitely a starting place. No, it is not comparable to my Viking, but it will stitch without frustrating them.
StarlightScrapper
from CTPERFECT small machine! I am using this for scrapbooking and card making and it is absolutely perfect! Solid build and quality is same level as my big Janome machine! Highly recommend it!
A reviewer
from Eastern IowaPerfect for my needs! I bought the sew mini by Janome because several of my paper crafting friends had bought it. Little did I know they hadn't gotten theirs out of the box yet when I ordered mine. Well, I was dying to sew on my paper projects, so I got mine out the first week or so that I had it. I LOVE it! Let's just say, I have been very intimidated with the idea of sewing on a full sized machine. Not sure why. It just didn't seem for me at the moment! AND I wanted to take the machine to crops, (wanted something very portable.) I got the sew mini on sale for $40, and BOY is that a deal! It was easy to follow the instructions to wind a bobbin, and then to thread! I have had a couple little issues were I missed something, and it made a weird noise. My bad. Re-thread and off I was going again! I sewed 4 pages my first night. Got it out again at another crop a week later, and sewing some more. I have since got a bag, changed threads several times and it is doing a great job! If you are sewing paper crafts, can't imagine a better buy! I can't wait to sew something CLOTH here sometime soon too! :) No, it does not have a light. But since when do sewers and scrapbookers craft in dark spaces? Really? Non-issue for me.
Sandy
from Des Moines, IowaFantastic starter machine We bought this for our 23 year old daughter for Christmas and it is just great. She loves it and has already made scarves, an owl pillow and a case for her iPad with a pocket for the charger. She is a beginner sewer and loves her new machine.
A reviewer
from Harrisburg PAGreat little machine! After reading the reviews, purchased the machine at the store. Was hesitant at first, as I am an experienced seamstress for many years, but thought I'd give it a try. I was pleasantly surprised! It doesn't have all the fancy stitches - if that is what you are looking for, this is not your machine. I own two sewing machines, but wanted a lightweight one to take in an RV to do quilting, simple mending, etc. This totally fits the bill - it weighs only 5 lbs. I bought a stick-on light (1/2 price sale - $7) for the side of the machine, as it doesn't have a light. It is a little loud, but not annoying, and it only has one speed - sometimes I wish it would go faster - but for what I need it for, it's great! It threads easily, bobbin winds and drops in easily, and has two slit openings on the bottom underside of the machine for small cuffs or pants hems. The machine throatplate has no seam allowance markings, but i just put a piece of masking tape on and marked 1/4" and 1/2" seam allowances. Thinking of getting another for my daughters - would be perfect for beginning sewers, college students, or young marrieds who just want to be able to do some simple mending/sewing. It's totally portable - we have a quilting group at our campground, so I just put it in a tote bag with my other supplies, and off I go! Love it - love it - love it!!
TwoWildflowers
from Northern CaliforniaGreat for sewing with kids! I am a professional home economist and sewing instructor. I purchased this machine since I have 2 grand girls! I sew their doll clothes and cute projects on this machine. (see our last one: http://twowildflowers.typepad.com/two_wildflowers/2009/05/grandma-what-are-we-going-to-make-today.html) It works great for simple projects and I would recommend it for 8-12 yr olds for sure. It only has one foot, but I have discovered one can use other Janome feet if you use the ankle and foot portion of your regualar Janome machine. I also have a picture of how this machine compares in size to a regular size machine. Click on the picture to see it larger: http://twowildflowers.typepad.com/two_wildflowers/2008/02/my-fun-new-toy.html Remember it does sew slow, it is limited to not too many (thick) fabric layers, and you need a bright light since it does not come with its own light (Janome had to cut cost someplace). It does take standard size machine needles, bobbins (Janome) and spools of thread.
A reviewer
from KansasDoes a great job! I am a grandma-wanted an inexpensive sewing machine to sew doll clothes, curtains and other small things. I dont sew often so didnt want to spend a lot of money. I am very pleased with this machine. My granddaughter took my machine to a quilting class of hers. Her quilting teacher was impressed with the machine. Does what I need and so much more. Hancock fabrics had this at a great price.
Renee
from River Falls, WIGreat machine for Granddaughter I bought this machine for my granddaughter who is just 6. She loves to sew on my "big" Janome but I was afraid that it was to fast for her. This machine is PERFECT. It's geared much slower, but is powerful enough to go thru several layers of fabric and the stitches are even and nice. So glad that I bought her a real machine and not a toy that only does chain stitches. 
A reviewer
from kansasnot good for a beginner I bought this for my daughter to start sewing. Does it work? Yes. But there is no light, no lines for 1/2 in 3/8 or 5/8 and the stitches are horribly small. Even the basting stitch is too close together. I'm disappointed because I bought because of good reviews.
A reviewer
from Bloomington, ILGreat little machine!!!!!!! This was an early anniversary present from my hubby. We have just recently moved and everything in my sewing and craft room is still in boxes. I have 2 regular sized machines, but they are not easy to get at right now. After using this little Janome...who cares where my other machines are! I love this one! I've been sewing for over 50 years and this one is perfect and suits all my needs!!! Way to go, Janome!
A reviewer
from North CarolinaEasy Sewing Great little machine, the only reason I did not give it 5 stars is that it does not have a light. It's plain, simple and easy to use that I had it threaded and running in less than 5 minutes. It has only one speed - slooww. Which is perfect more me. I do not need the fancy stuff. One suggestion when you buy this machine make sure to get extra bobbins at the same time as it only comes with 3 which is not enough if you will be useing more than 3 colors of thread.
TOOTLES
from Chippewa Falls, WIPPEERRRFEEEECCCCCCCCCCTTTTTTTTTT FOR BEGINNERS OF ALL AGES I wanted a small machine to take to "Sewing Days" at our church. Where we sew "Dresses for African girls, lap quilts for the local hospital and recently "cloth grocery bags" for a local grade school that provides groceries every friday to kids from poor homes. Since then I have bought 4 more 2 I gave to others for their grandkids and 2 I use to teach my neighbor girls how to sew. I have not run into anything negative.
A reviewer
from Wingo, KYPerfect for beginners My mother bought this machine for my daughter. I was skeptical at first but we are now fighting over it! She has made 2 dresses and 2 pair of pants, I have made 2 dresses and bibs for friends. She is also using it for many crafts! Great machine.
A reviewer
from WAOverall Good Small/Beginner Machine This machine was given to my 9 year old daughter for her first starter machine. The pros are that it is lightweight, small and portable and the stitches are even. We were disappointed that it did not have a light or markings on the plate, some necessary basics for a beginner sewer. Also, placing the bobbin in the case correctly did not seem to be as easy as stated. The other Janome machines have a picture guide. It was also quite loud and would have been nice to have more than one speed. We are now upgrading to a model that can do more and has more features. Due to cost and our experience with this one, it may be an electronic Brother, although the other Janomes look like good options.
stephanie
from nhlove love love this machine i have been sewing for over 30 years and have tried several dfferent brands and this mini sewing machine is even better than some of the bigger models yes it has no light but nothing a small desk lamp wont fix and it does not have snap on pressure feet but you can still you snap feet it you buy an adapter for snap on feet and it has no thread cutter but who needs that just use scissors so all an all i think this is a great machine to take to classes and small places as well and have already made 2 pairs of gauchos and some curtains and even made a cover for and everything seems to be working great so i would highly recommend this to anyone
Libby Sews
from Sumter, SCGreat little machine Bought machine & a power adapter to run in car. Made 5 quilt tops while driving across country & it did great job. Not a toy!!
A reviewer
from CincinnatiDon't underestimate this machine! I bought the Sew Mini two years ago, for making doll clothes, and it might be the best $50 I've ever spent. It is a "mini" machine - it has some issues with thicker fabrics and lots of layers - but it constantly impresses me with what it can handle. I even made a Disney Princess costume for my daughter on this machine, and it attached the heavily-gathered skirt to the bodice like a boss. The only reason I'm looking to upgrade is to get zipper and buttonhole capabilities - otherwise, I'd be content with my Sew Mini forever!
A reviewer
from CaliforniaPerfect for sewing with my daughter I purchased 2 of these when Hancock had them on sale over Christmas so that my daughter could sew with friends. We love them! They are slow compared to my big machine, but for kids, it's great. We recently took them travelling and when we had a hang-out-in-the-hotel day, we sewed. She has sewn a dress, some dolls, some bags, and many other items with this. Highly recommended!
A reviewer
from Rochester, MNGreat value and fun to use! Bought 4 of these machines to teach my granddaughters to sew. We all LOVE them! Easy to use and powerful enough to sew fleece.
A reviewer
from IndyPerfection My daughter uses this machine and it sews perfectly. She makes clothes for her american girl mini doll using it. I've found so many great tips for sewing machines at www.bestsewingmachinetips.com you should check it out!
midwestmama
from Marion, IAIt is a real value for a sewer wanting to do very basic sewing The slow sewing speed could be frustrating to an experienced sewer, but is perfect for someone unused to controlling fabric as it feeds through a machine. I was impressed with the stitches and performance for the low price and the size of the machine. It is a mini machine good for a crafter/scrapbooker and very novice sewer. Be aware that it has no light and no on/off switch.
A reviewer
from New MexicoGood mini machine I've used several sewing machines, I needed a machine that was small and easy to store. This little machine would be great for anyone looking to start sewing or for small jobs. This machine does exactly what I need it to. I use it mainly to tailor my shirts and jeans.
dudettegirl
from SF, CAbeginner machine I LOVED the size and weight for travel.
A reviewer
from Tupelo, MSPerfect Beginner Machine!!! I am a beginner sewer and love this machine.
A reviewer
from Kansas Cuty, KSnot for quilting I bought this for a travel machine to do piecing, but there is no light, no markings for 1/4". Really, what would it take to make some markings on the plate. Disappointed, I returned it!
A reviewer
from Kinderhook, New YorkGreat little machine I don't know how to sew, and my six-year-old daughter really wanted to learn. This machine cost less than the children's machines, was reviewed favorably by experienced sewers and recommended for beginners. I was delighted to find that it is easy to set up and easy to use. We love this machine. We even made a "quilted" pillow on Christmas morning.
A reviewer
from Minneapolis, MNEasy to use, amazing power! I love this machine! I have made several queen-sized quilts with it, and it never misses a beat. Even when I sometimes get behind on cleaning out the lint, it still runs like a dream. The user's manual is very easy to understand and follow. Love it, love it, love it!!!
A reviewer
from Henderson NVGreat starter machine for any age. Santa brought this little machine to my granddaughter so I could teach her to sew, and it was perfect for the job. She is nine & had no trouble learning how to operate it, including threading it & winding the bobbin. I was very happy with the results. Just the right speed.
A reviewer
from CaliforniaThis machine rocks! I have had mine for close to 2 years now, and my friends all use it at crops. I can't believe how well it has held up. I LOVE this machine! I have used it SO much, and so have so many others. It's an awesome little machine for scrapbooking. I've never sewn fabric with it, outside of attaching things to a page. Just recently, someone mentioned that when they stitch something onto a page, they actually stitch around the item then glue it on the page. Going to do this, as it will make things a bit neater. Overall, however, 5 stars. Awesome product! Wondering if I should buy a second as a backup in case they stop making them!
A reviewer
from John Day, ORGreat Little Machine For the money and size, this machine does a great job. Right out of the box, the stitches were perfect. Great machine for those little hands just learning to sew. Can't wait to take it on a trip. Very light weight. Would recommend.
A reviewer
from Orange County, CA.'Great things come in small packages' Bought this machine for my cardmaking/scrapbookng needs. Unbelievably easy to use. Cannot be any simpler, first sewing machine to own. Great, great investment!
Becca
from Mechanicsburg, PALove my Mini I am just beginning to learn to sew, was going to take a sewing class, but had no machine. The mini was on sale, and my partner raced to the store (the sale was ending, and the store was going to close shortly) got there just in time. I'm rather clumsy and uncoordinated, but my Mini is perfect for me. The speed is just right, and even though I can't sew in a straight line, I have had no accidents or major snarls. Everything is easy to use, and the ladies in my sewing class scoffed at the size of my mini, but when they realized it was just as good as their big ones, and so much lighter... they were envious. I love my mini!!!
A reviewer
from TucsonGreat machine Love this machine, my first sewing machine. Just covered all my patio chaise cushions, so much cheaper then replacing them.
A reviewer
from Dexter, MOI Am Amazed! Every Quilter should own one! I bought the Janome Sew Mini because I wanted a machine to carry to our second home. My regular sewing machine was too heavy to fool with. I researched and decided to purchase the Janome Sew Mini because it truly performs like a regular-sized machine, but just smaller and lighter. I brought it home and was thoroughly delighted at the quality of this little gem. Every quilter should own one because it will do everything you need and be super portable. It is so cute!!! And it WORKS!!
A reviewer
from Missourievery home should have one This little machine should be in every home. It is just right for mending a seam, simple sewing and beginner sewing. It is so light, you can lift it with one hand. It tucks away in a small space, I keep it in the kitchen cabinet with a few colors of thread handy. The only thing I wish it had was a light. I will use it to introduce my children to sewing, it is one speed and not too fast, just right. Drop in bobbin is really nice. Very easy to thread, good basic instruction manual.
Linda
from Zephyrhills, FLJanome 525 Mini is a great machine. Boy do I have a little jewel. The Janome 525 Mini is so easy to set up and use. I tried scrap material first to determine the correct tension for my stitches. Then I was off and running. I made my first pair of kitchen trimmed curtains along with 2 cascade valances and insert with ribbon trim. They were so easy to make on this machine. It does have one speed - slow - but the stitches were the straightest I've ever sewn. One drawback is there is no light, but this little machine can make all your accomlishments possible and so rewarding. Thank you Janome!
A reviewer
from Manitowoc, wiGreat little thing!! bought this to teach my neice some stuff cuz it didn't seem too intiminating and ez to use. It was just that!! She ran it well and had no problems doing her projects. I really liked it alot!! I am going to have to get one for myself!! Fits nicely into a reuseable grocery bag(it really is only 5 lbs!!). Ya the downside is that it has no light but oh well nothing a desk lamp can't help with. Great little machine!!!
Joe Schroeder
from Milwaukee, WIworks great it works for every thing it is great!!!!
A reviewer
from Dallas TXPerfect Machine I took the plunge and am so glad I did. I have sewn hours and hours and have not had any trouble at all. It is what it says it is....it's not a toy, it's not something that should be used for teaching. This is not a stand alone machine as it has no bells and whistles but it is super for quilt piecing, deco projects. It weighs almost nothing and is so easy to travel with. I am thrilled with my purchase. The ONLY drawback I can see is that it does lack a light, which would be nice.
A reviewer
from Minneapolis, MNSo amazed. Great output for great price! I purchased this in the store after having read so many positive reviews and no one is lying or exaggerating when they say this machine is amazing! I've been able to sew through 3 layers of thick fleece with no issues. Reliable, quick to set-up, and an amazing price. Get one as a starter, back-up, etc. YouTube has a great video on how to thread the machine as well. If you are on the fence, don't be. We have all wasted $50 before, but this is worth the price and you will sew ten-fold with this. LOVE this and buying another.
A reviewer
from TennesseeExcellent first sewing machine for beginner I had never used a sewing machine when I got my Janome Sew Mini. It is easy to learn and use. It is somewhat limited, which is understandable as it's a "mini" sewing machine. I would highly recommend it as a simple, easy-to-learn and use machine.
A reviewer
from Helena, MTPerfect for a beginning student I bought this for my 12 year old son for Christmas. He has done really well with it, as it is not intimidating. as his first project, he made an organizer bag to keep his sewing supplies in, that ties to the end of his bed. He then made a fleece hat and flannel pajama pants.
A reviewer
from McAllen, TexasPerfect in a small rv This sewing machine is the perfect answer for my desire to make comfort quilts and to mend items while traveling. I give it 5 stars because it is: compact, light weight, and a real machine! Way to go Janome!
Sharon Whitson
from Kingsport,TNGreat Product I love this machine. It is a perfect size to take anywhere i want to go. I enjoy using the sewing machine when working on my art work and this little guy has been a valuable part of that. Thank You Janome for a big machine in a little machines body!!!!!!!!!!
A reviewer
from Fort Worth,TXjust perfect I wanted to get my daughter a sewing machine for Christmas.We originally purchased on of those battery operated chain stitch machines which was a joke! found this online for 1/2 price 2 days later and it is just perfect!
A reviewer
from Buffalo, NYJust right! When I saw this machine in a Hancock store, I couldn't believe the size, features, and price. Purchased one right away and find it absolutely perfect for traveling. Too hard to haul around a full-size machine when all you really need is a straight stitch and a good zigzag. Solved the two biggest minuses: 1) no light--a folding booklight work fine, 2) no case or handle--designed a zippered, padded carry tote with lots of pockets and handles that make it a shoulder bag. I get compliments. Leaving shortly on an extended train trip and I'll make a quilt while riding. How cool is that!!
A reviewer
from South rural GeorgiaI/We are well pleased !! After using the machine (bought for our granddaughter) to make fleece hats and pants and a 2 layer flannel rag quilt, I was hooked! I got one for myself as my large machine was gone for repairs. My Sew-Mini accompanied me to my weekly sewing group. My other machine was too heavy for me to ever take. My fellow sewers/quilters fell in love with my new Janome. To date, seven more of the Janome Mini-Sew machines have been sold thru this site due to exposure to mine. Not having a light is common note in our group. I purchased a small Ott lamp for mine, which is easy to take with me too. Since my Dec purchase, I have sewn 3 quilt tops, more quilt blocks, youth rag quilt, many mendings, and various small quilted items. I have today finished altering a white satin prom dress for a teen which involved adding braid with loops to make a cording closure down the back of the dress's bodice. My Sew-Mini handled that with no problem...4 layers of satin, one interfacing layer, one stiff stabilizer, and two layers of braid..all in one seam's "sandwich" ! I love this machine. It is Number 1 in my sewing equipment now. I am careful to follow the care suggestions and treat it like fine crystal because I want it to last my lifetime. It will be used for the quilts I have planned for 2102. It exactly fits in a red overnight bag I had. Been sewing for exactly 50 years and so glad I found this little miracle. I do plan to give them as gifts as I am able. P.S. Janome, I would love to have a zipper foot for it. I can't think of anything negative to say either! Just Thank you.
A reviewer
from Memphis, TNGreat Value for the Money Very impressed with this little machine. I wanted a portable machine for travel and this one does the job. |
