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Janome 2222 Review (2023 update)
Note from the Editor: This Janome 2222 review was originally written in 2014, revised and updated in 2023. We have added newer mechanical alternatives such as the Janome Sewist 721 and the MOD-50.
Janome 2222 Review: Overview
Janome 2222 is a basic mechanical sewing machine with features perfect for household usage or learning purposes if you are a beginner. The device has 22 built-in stitches, four-step automatic buttonholes, manual thread tension, and stitch length and width adjustments of 5mm and 4mm, respectively. In terms of functioning, Janome 2222 does not disappoint. The output delivery is impressive, and the machine works without any lags unless you try to sew canvas or denim on it. It can sew denim, but it is not advised to do so frequently.
Janome 2222 review: At A Glance
The Janome 2222 is definitely a sewing machine for the beginner. All you have to do is take one look at the large stitch selection dials and the oversized reverse stitch button to see that it is a machine that can be used by people of all ages and skill levels. The clear threading guides and seam guides on both sides of the needle plate are another sign that this machine is easy to use.
There is also a front loading bobbin, an automatic needle threader, an on board accessories case. When it is removed, you have access to the bobbin housing, drop feed control lever and a free arm.
Features
- 22 stitches
- One-step automatic buttonholes
- Manual thread tension control
- Built-in needle threader
- On board thread cutter
- Snap-on presser feet
- 3-piece feed dog
- Free arm
- Drop feed
- Push-pull bobbin winder
- Extra high presser foot lift
- Stitch selection dial
- Stitch length and width adjustment dials
- Two upright retractable spool pins
- Dust cover included
- Carrying handle
Working on the Janome 2222
Removing the accessory case to access the free arm is quite understandable and acceptable. It isn’t even too big of a leap to understand the rationale behind taking it off every time you want to rewind the bobbin or change the bobbin thread color. My pet peeve with many of the sewing machines I’ve had the opportunity to review recently is that you can’t get to the drop feed control without first stopping everything to remove the accessories case and open the bobbin housing door. This, to me, is a total and complete waste of time and energy – especially when you are in the middle of a sewing task that requires darning, attaching buttons, or freehand sewing and are pressed for time.
Janome 2222 review: Fabrics
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Knits Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester | Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
Janome alternatives to the 2222
The Janome Sewist 721 and the MOD-50 are good alternatives to the Janome 2222. Details below:
The Janome Sewist 721 is a perfect companion for beginners and casual sewists, offering a user-friendly mechanical design. With 19 built-in stitches, including everyday and stretch stitches, as well as a 4-step buttonhole, it caters to a variety of sewing needs. Practical features like Adjustable Foot Pressure, Built-in Needle Threader, and Extra High Foot Lifter for thicker fabrics enhance the sewing experience. The machine's light-weight design facilitates easy transport to classes, and with additional perks like LED lighting and a free arm design, the Sewist 721 makes sewing accessible and enjoyable.
- Stitch selection dials
- High presser foot lift
- Can be a bit noisy
The Janome MOD-50, part of the diverse Mod line, offers 50 built-in stitches, including 3 one-step buttonholes. Ideal for unleashing creativity, it simplifies sewing modern garments, home decor, and quilts. With user-friendly features like easy threading, top-loading bobbin, and convenient buttons, this machine caters to both beginners and intermediate sewists. Its precision and reliability make it a go-to tool for tackling sewing projects with confidence. The MOD-50 seamlessly blends innovation and functionality for a satisfying sewing experience.
- Extensive Built-in Stitches
- Easy Reverse Button
- Can be a little noisy
Accessories
- Snap on presser feet
- Zipper foot
- Buttonhole foot
- Hemmer foot
- Overcast foot
- Satin stitch foot
- Hem guide
- Bobbins (4)
- Extra needles
- Seam ripper
- 2 Screwdrivers (1 large/1 small)
- Oil dispenser
- Owner’s manual
Maintenance
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | Yes |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | No | Yes |
Tying Off The Loose Ends
The Janome 2222 is an excellent sewing machine for beginners. I have a few reservations, however. First of all, the stitch selection process, though very easy, gets complicated when choosing one of the decorative stitches that requires lots of manipulation of the length and width adjustment dials in order to get the desired results. When you consider the drop feed placement and the need to remove the accessories case to access the bobbin, I’m not sure that sewers used to more efficient sewing will be impressed.
Don’t get me wrong. I realize this criticism is contrary to many other reviews I’ve written about machines with some of the same features, but when all these things are combined, it does make a difference – at least to me. If you have been sewing as long as I have, you have become accustomed to things like the drop feed and bobbin access being easier and faster to get to. For anyone who is new to sewing, or has not sewn for a very long time, these things that people like me find to be minor annoyances will not be an issue at all.
The quality of Janome’s work and its reputation far outweigh any doubts or concerns I might have about where a couple of very useful features are located. The issues I have with the stitch selection on the Janome 2222 notwithstanding, I still think it is a very good sewing machine. My personal opinion is that perhaps the challenge is because they tried to put a little too much on this very affordable machine while still keeping the price within reach of practically every budget.
I give it four stars, not so much because of my issue with the stitches as because of the workmanship. The Janome 2222 sews up to 860 stitches per minute. Not bad at all for a beginner machine, but slower than most machines designed with advanced or intermediate sewers in mind. Again, for the price range, the speed is not only acceptable, it is ideal. When you really think about it, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of only $299, the Janome 2222 is a terrific deal—especially for a superior quality sewing machine for beginners.
In my opinion, having to make allowances in order to get the desired results for about three stitch options, is a small sacrifice for the overall quality of this very affordable mechanical sewing machine.
If you want a cheap mechanical sewing machine and don’t mind putting in a little time and effort to get the results you want for a few of the 22 stitch options, then take a few minutes to look at the Janome 2222 closely. It might just be the perfect choice for you.
Other alternatives to Janome 222
The Singer M3330 Making the Cut Sewing Machine, featured on Amazon Prime's MAKING THE CUT, is the machine you might want to add to your sewing room if you're searching for a reasonably priced sewing machine with enough capabilities for beginners who want to learn how to sew and for advanced sewers who want to make a variety of sewing projects. This machine offers 97 stitch applications, adjustable stitch options, a built-in needle threader and a built-in cutter for efficiency, and "Making the Cut" technology for unique designs. Its one-step buttonhole, LED lighting, and durable metal frame make it perfect for quilting, garment making, and DIY projects. The included essentials make it ideal for project kick-starts.
- Offers 97 stitch applications, suitable for various fabrics and sewing projects
- Full metal frame ensures long-lasting performance, providing stability during use
- Built-in needle threader and one-step buttonhole simplify the sewing process
- Long-lasting LED lighting provides bright, cool-to-touch illumination for precise work
- You won't be able to use this basic sewing machine, if you're a top-tier professional, to work on complex sewing jobs
Priced under $200, the Brother CS5055 computerized sewing machine is a versatile powerhouse catering to both novices and seasoned enthusiasts. Boasting 60 unique built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and heirloom functions, it allows for creative embellishments. The improved needle threader ensures hassle-free threading, complemented by a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin for smooth operation. The durable metal frame and fixed needle bar contribute to cleaner stitching and even lines, handling diverse projects with ease. With a generous needle-to-arm workspace, users can tackle larger projects effortlessly. The CS5055, equipped with an LCD display and user-friendly features, transforms garments into personalized fashion statements, making it an ideal investment for sewing aficionados.
- Affordable
- More features than mechanical machines on this list so far
- Light-weight at around 10 lbs
- You can't order parts for this machine. You have to visit authorized repair centers
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
Other Janome reviews you may like
Janome Xpression Review
They say you have an opportunity to learn something every day. Well, I certainly learned a lot when I visited Margate, Florida’s Sunshine Sewing Center and reviewed the single purpose Janome Xpression FM 725. It’s a single function felting machine that allows you to simply let your imagination go to create just about anything you can see in your mind’s eye.
Janome QC 6260 Review
When I reviewed a friend’s Janome QC 6260, it was very easy to see why she refuses to let it out of the house. This machine was purchased in 2006, gets lots and lots of use and it still works as great as it did when she first brought it home and unpacked it.
Janome 1600P-QC Review
When I first saw the Janome 1600P, I thought it was an industrial sewing machine, but I was mistaken. This is a super fast, metal, straight stitch only mechanical sewing machine designed for home use. If you like making leather or suede purses or working with super heavy materials like canvas, this might be the perfect machine for you.
Janome 2222 review
Summary
The Janome 2222 is an excellent sewing machine for beginners. The only reservation I have is the stitch selection process, though very easy, gets complicated when choosing one of the decorative stitches that requires lots of manipulation of the length and width adjustment dials in order to get the desired results.
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
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