Help me choose between these two sewing machines please!

[deedeemegadoodoo]

I am a complete beginner and want to buy a sewing machine. Do I got for the Janome 7025 (second hand) or the John Lewis?

I really struggle to make up my mind when there is a lot of choice so I feel like I’ve been going round in circles for a few weeks trying to decide.

[OneTooManyBathtimes]

I'd personally go for the Janome. I used them when I was at school, and the pinking shears I have from them have a lifetime warranty. Much prefer a Janome over anything else. But again, personal preference

[timtam23]

If you are still choosing...I would say the Janome, they are good machines and very reliable. I've had an extremely basic one for nearly 20 years and it's still going strong (although I would like something like the 7025, which has a better range of stitches and features)

[Magpiefeather]

Janome all the way! I have a different Janome model but it is wonderful and has never let me down!

[deedeemegadoodoo]

Thanks all! I have literally just got home from the shops. I bought this Janome from Hobbycraft in the end.

www.hobbycraft.co.uk/janome-hc1200-sewing-machine/638245-1000

Bargain price of £109 and I think it will be great to start with as a complete beginner.

[Erictheavocado]

I've just looked at your link and thought how similar the machine looks to my 35 year old New Home machine. The controls, the range of stitches, all that's different is the colour on the ma home and the thread trail is more up to date. So, I had a quick Google and discovered that New Home were actually bought out by Janome. In which case, I can't recommend it highly enough. My machine still works beautifully - make sure to keep it oiled and clean. I also have mine serviced now and again (it's not easy finding places to do it these days) and have never had any problems with it. The only reason I bought another machine recently, is because I wanted a bigger range of stitches,although the fact that my new machine, like yours is stand alone so much easier to use on a whim, than my New Home, which came in a sewing table.

[deedeemegadoodoo]

@Erictheavocado Funny you should say that, because I inherited an overlocker from my mum (haven’t used it yet) but I was putting it in the cupboard when I saw it was labelled New Home on the front, but the label on the back said Janome!

I’m happy to say that I am pleased with the sewing machine. Really straightforward to use, so not intimidating for the beginner. I’m enjoying it so far!

I am amazed at this thing I thought I would never be able to do, is actually pretty doable - and compulsive once you get going!

[BitOfFun]

Welcome to your new money sponge hobby - that's a great machine for your money.

[TheletterZ]

I see you have already brought your machine but I am pretty sure that the John Lewis machines are made by Janome. The one you brought from hobbycraft is virtually identical to the JL110.

Which I have an enjoy using. Enjoy your machine.

[Equimum]

I hope you are enjoying your new machine.
I made a different decision and have recently bought a JL machine as the tutor on an introduction to machine sewing day said that JL were made by Janome, and that seems to be right, as I have to buy Janome accessories.

Unfortunately, due to having the kids here all the time, I haven’t had much opportunity to play.