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 Sewing Machine

4.5

$229.00

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.

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04/21/2025 10:20 am GMT

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

4.5

$229.00

Starting with the push/pull bobbin winder and following the easy to use threading guide and the automatic needle threader make setting up the Janome 2222 as uncomplicated as possible. The process is so simple, I have no doubt that even a child as young as seven or eight will be able to master these tasks with just a minimum amount of supervision. Winding the bobbin requires pulling the hand wheel out until it locks and then pushing it back into place once the bobbin is loaded with thread. After the frontloading bobbin is in place and the needle threaded, all that is left is to decide is which stitch to start with and to determine the stitch length and width settings. I sampled all of the stitch options and was not too happy when a few of them did not come out looking like they did on the selection dial. It took a bit of manipulating the stitch length and width selection dials for me to be able to resolve the issue. While a minor annoyance for some, this could be frustrating for the beginner, but a good learning experience if you have the patience. All in all, however, the stitches are tight and secure… exactly what the Janome brand is known for.

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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

Janome alternatives to the 2222

The Janome Sewist 721 and the MOD-50 are good alternatives to the Janome 2222. Details below:

Janome Sewist 721 Sewing Machine

4.6

$329.00

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.

Pros:

• Stitch selection dials
• High presser foot lift

Cons:

• Can be a bit noisy

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04/21/2025 10:58 am GMT

Janome MOD-50 Computerized Sewing Machine

4.5

$299.00

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.

Pros:

• Extensive Built-in Stitches
• Easy Reverse Button

Cons:

• Can be a little noisy

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04/21/2025 10:57 am GMT

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

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

Singer Making The Cut Sewing Machine

4.5

If you are tight on budget and the other sewing machine’s prices are scaring you, then Singer Making The Cut is what you need. Whether you are a newbie or a professional sewer, you can easily use the device.

Plus, the M333O model amazes you with decorative stretch and basic stitches so you can easily sew sheer, stretch knot, denim, and the list goes on. Then, the machine also opens the ground for adjusting the stitch length and width so you can create your projects in any style you want. What about the stitch applications?

The good news is that Singer Making The Cut has 97 different stitch applications. It even consists of a built-in needle threader and a one-step buttonhole to maintain consistency. And did we tell you that M3330 also made it to the popular Making the Cut Show on Amazon? 

Pros:

• The machine has 97 built-in stitches. This includes stretch, heirloom, decorative, and utility stitches. So you can use it for various projects.
• The brand is known for its durability. Hence you will not regret your decision in getting the M3330.

Cons:

• The machines lack advanced features like an adjustable stitch.
• The model creates too much noise during sewing, so you need to be careful.

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Brother CS5055 Computerized Sewing Machine

4.7

The type of sewing machine might have compelled you to think that it would be pricey. But the good news is that this one is under $200. The Brother CS5055 uses a computerized system, making it convenient for both freshers and experts.

You will be amazed to know that it offers 60 built-in stitches for decorative, utility, and heirloom functions. Hence, you can try your hand at adding creative embellishments. Apart from that, this model promises threading without barriers and gives you a drop-in top bobbin that is jam-resistant. So you will be able to sew multiple projects at the same time.

Then, you will also come across a metal frame and a fixed needle bar for perfect stitching. If you want to work on a complicated project, then use the spacious needle-to-arm area. Furthermore, the LCD display allows you to control the sewing. So, none of your projects can go wrong. 

Pros:

• The computerized LCD screen makes it a very user-friendly option. So, you can select stitches and adjust accordingly.
• The sewing machine offers you a one-step buttonhole, an automatic needle threader, and a free arm for smaller projects.

Cons:

• The machine might let you down in terms of buttonhole quality. It may not be as accurate as in premium models.
• Plastic is durable but loses the sturdy race when compared with metal parts.

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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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