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Janome 3160 QDC Review (2023 update)
Note from Editor: The original Janome 3160 QDC review was written in 2013. It has been reviewed and revised in 2023 and we have provided great alternatives, such as the Singer 7258, the Juki F600 and the Janome Memory Craft 6650 sewing and quilting machines, depending on your budget to the 3160 QDC based on your budget.
Are you looking for an unbiased review of the Janome 3160 QDC sewing and quilting machine? I had an opportunity to review the Janome 3160 QDC on a recent visit to Sunshine Sewing and Quilting and I detail it below.
Janome 3160 QDC Overview
The Janome 3160QDC is a fully functional, top-of-the-line machine that provides all of the benefits at an affordable price. It was created keeping a quilter's needs in mind.
The Superior Plus Feed System from the company Janome has optimized box feeding that makes it possible to feed any fabric steadily and consistently.
Six 1-step buttonholes are available among the 60 built-in stitches. This full-sized machine only weighs 12 pounds, which makes it convenient to transport to workshops and guild meetings.
Sewing is made simple with the time-saving features of this machine, like the memorized up/down needle, the single-handed needle threader, and the lock stitch button.
- Top-Loading Easy-Set Jam Proof Bobbin System
- Handy function buttons
- Adjustments might be problematic sometimes
Janome 3160 QDC Features
When I first saw the Janome 3160 QDC, I thought it might be a good basic sewing machine, but when I really took the time to look at it, I noticed the large stitch selection panel on the right hand side, the multiple function buttons, the backlit LCD display panel, the bright LED work light and extra large needle plate with etched seam guides, and easy to follow threading guide. That’s when the Janome 3160 QDC really got my attention.
The Janome 3160 QDC is a full sized portable sewing machine that is loaded with features often found exclusively on larger, heavier machines.
- Extended free arm
- Simplified navigation keys
- LCD screen with backlight
- Adjustable foot pedal pressure
- Superior Plus Feed System with 7-piece feed dog
- Drop feed dog
- Extended needle plate
- Start/stop button
- Built-in, one-hand needle threader
- Speed adjustment (slider)
- Memorized needle up/down
- Auto lockstitch button
- Numbered threading path
- Adjustable pressure dial
- On board accessories storage compartment
- Needle up/down button
- Start/stop button
- Reverse button
- Auto-lock button
- Free arm / flat bed convertible
- Fold down carrying handle
Working on the Janome 3160 QDC
Preparing the Janome 3160 QDC for sewing is as easy as could be. Clear, easy to follow guides take you through each step in winding the bobbin and threading the machine. A clear plastic cover makes it easy to determine when the bobbin thread is running low and the oversized needle plate has easy to read etched seam guides. The stitch selection process is easy to master. With the stitch selection guide mounted right on the front panel, all the user has to do is find the appropriate stitch number and use the directional buttons on the upper panel to lock it in. For this review, I tested the chain stitch for definition and durability as well as a few of the decorative stitches. Each and every stitch option I attempted came out flawlessly. The stitch definition in even the dense decorative stitches was perfect.
The straight chain stitches produced by the Janome 3160 QDC had the delicate yet sturdy quality reminiscent of the much admired beautiful stitchwork produced by vintage sewing machines… the type of stitchwork that many of today’s sewing machine manufacturers strive for, but are unable to fully achieve.
The stitch locking and thread cutting buttons are great assets that make sewing on the Janome 3160 QDC faster and more efficient than other sewing and quilting machines in its weight and price range.
In addition, the extension table that comes as a standard accessory makes it possible to work with extra large projects and quilts with ease. To mount it, simply remove the on board accessories case and slide it into place.
Alternatives to the Janome 3160 QDC
The Singer 7258, the Juki F600 and the Janome Memory Craft 6650 are great alternative sewing and quilting machines to the Janome 3160 QDC, depending on your budget
The Singer Stylist 7258 combines functionality with convenience. Ideal for enthusiasts ranging from beginners to intermediates, this computerized sewing marvel boasts 100 built-in stitches, making it a versatile companion for various projects. The heavy-duty metal frame ensures durability, while features like push-button stitch selection, LCD screen, and programmable options simplify tasks. With an array of accessories and user-friendly design, the 7258 addresses the needs of creative minds, providing an efficient solution for fashion, quilting, and home sewing endeavors.
- Affordable
- Excellent for professional sewers
- One user complained about the motor being burned after only 5 months
If you want the best computerized sewing machine to achieve your quilting and sewing goals, then feel free to purchase Juki HZL’s Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine. Why this one? The reason is that this model carries the ability to grab your attention through its amazing features and user-friendly design. Unlike other quilting machines, the F600 has a sturdier motor to help you sew thick fabrics such as denim and multiple quilting layers. Then, with the 255 stitch patterns, and 16 automatic buttonholes, you can create wonderful designs. One of the best parts is that the machine makes your work easier via bright LED lighting and a box feed system that ensures precise stitches. Hence, it will not mess up difficult stitching.
- The machine’s powerful motor and feed system help you with exceptional stitch quality.
- The brand is appreciated for great customer support.
- This machine wears a heavier price tag than other machines.
- The advanced features might be difficult to understand, and it may take time to learn how the machine functions.
Janome Memory Craft 6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine takes the seventh position in the category of the best eight quilting machines. It’s considered a powerhouse since the instrument is packed with versatility and precision, becoming the top quilter and sewer choice. The machine attracts you with its spacious 10’’ throat space, making it perfect for managing bulky quilt projects. After that, you will see that the device carries a robust body with 170 built-in stitches, a superior needle threader for you to resume intricate sewing easily, and includes alphabets to ensure that you are doing it correctly. This specific quilting machine offers you speedy stitching of up to 1000 stitches per minute, promising you an efficient workflow. At the same time, the LCD screen allows easier navigation, simplifying usability.
- Superior Plus Feed System
- Built-in automatic thread cutter
- Adjustable foot presser
- Detachable stitch chart
- Lack of a free arm.
- A steeper learning curve may interfere with the beginner’s learning.
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 Upholstery Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
Accessories
The list of standard accessories that come with the Janome 3160 QDC includes:
- 7 Presser feet
- Satin stitch foot
- Zipper foot
- Automatic buttonhole foot
- Overedge foot
- Blind hem foot
- ¼˝ seam foot
- Custom crafted zigzag foot
- Extra bobbins
- Spool pin felt
- Needle set
- Additional spool pin
- Seam ripper (Buttonhole opener)
- Screwdriver key
- Lint brush
- Small spool holder
- Large spool holder
- Spool stand
- Extension table
- Hard cover
- Instruction 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 | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Summary: Janome 3160 QDC
The Janome 3160 QDC sews quietly and steadily. It is a sound machine that operates very much like a machine that weights a lot more than its mere 14 pounds. With a MSRP of $699, the Janome 3160 QDC is possibly one of the most reliable portable sewing and quilting machines on the market to day. In addition, during a conversation with Fay Nichol, owner of Sunshine Sewing and Quilting, I was surprised to learn that her seven year old granddaughter loves working on this machine. For the longest time, I had hesitated to recommend computerized sewing machines for use by children, believing that they would be happier working with mechanical machines. Fay pointed out, however, that children are accustomed to working with computerized components and that certain computerized sewing machines are ideal for young children.
In light of how easy the Janome 3160 QDC is to operate, I can see how a computer savvy seven year old could easily master it. This does not, however, mean that I have completely changed my position on children working on all computerized sewing machines. While the Janome 3160 QDC may be a good teaching tool for a child, it is not a machine that will bore or disappoint an intermediate home sewer or someone who is an advanced or expert sewer. This machine sews like a much heavier machine, and is no doubt capable of handling many hours of continuous work by someone like me who has been known to close themselves off from the rest of the world and sew for hours and hours without a break.
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.
Janome 3160 QDC Review
Summary
The Janome 3160 QDC is a lightweight portable sewing and quilting machine that is so easy to operate, I am tempted to recommend it for use by children. But don’t get me wrong. Just because a child could operate this machine, it is a solid workhorse that an advanced home sewer or someone at the intermediate skill level will be very pleased with.
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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.
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Happy Stitching.
I just got this machine last week and I’m convinced that it’s the greatest sewing machine ever 🙂
Just bought one today and am happy to read the good things about it!
Just bought this machine today. Glad to read positive comments. Very excited to begin using it!
Does it come with a button sewing foot, are stitches changed if touched accidentally while sewing?Is a walking foot included?
Hello, Mary.
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
All of the accessories – including presser feet – that come with the machine are listed. You do have the option of purchasing additional presser feet. I believe all Janome presser feet are interchangeable. However, I suggest you verify that with your local Janome dealer before investing in additional presser feet.
As far as I have been able to determine, the stitches do not change with a mere accidental brush. The touch pad is very sensitive, however.
Happy stitching.
I have this machine and love it. Lots of great features although not so many as to be overwhelming. I love, love, love (did I mention love?) the automatic scissor function. Nice solid, well functioning machine, yet lightweight enough to truly be portable.
I have this machine. I would like to know if you can use a twin needle on it?
I have searched. Have not been able to find a Janome twin needle that lists
this machine. If I can use a twin needle do I use the place on top that can be used
for applying thread on the bobbin for the second spool of thread?
Have looked through the manual. Nothing mentioned regarding a twin needle. Or is it possible to use another brand other than Janome? Do I need to use a special foot when using a twin needle?
Hello, Wanda –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
According to the Janome website, the 3160 QDC does not have a twin needle guard, which translates to mean that it is not advisable to try to use a twin needle on this machine.
To answer your other question… a special presser foot is not necessary if you are using a twin needle on a machine that is designed to work with one. You only need to make sure that the foot you use has a clearance wide enough for the needles to pass through easily and smoothly.
Happy stitching.
My understanding is that the twin needle guard prevents a machine from using certain stitches. Since this machine doesn’t have a twin needle guard, it means the user needs to know whether the stitch selected can be used with twin needles, otherwise there’s the risk of damaging the machine.
Twin and triple needles can be used.
Hello Vernelle,
I have also heard about Bobbin issues with this machine.
Have you heard about it?
i am having a lot of problems with the bobbin holder getting broken…
I am having the same problem and it is very frustrating. I’ve had it back to the dealer several times and they replaced the bobbin case but still having same problem. I saw a note on the quiltingboard.com that it probably needs a bobbin case supporter to fix this old problem. Part Number 846222202.
I took my machine to another dealer 65 miles away and they put the spacer in the bobbin case. The were aware of this problem and it is working well now.
Did you find out the problem? I bought my Janome 3160QDC five years ago but due to living away I never got to use it…a couple of weeks ago I decided to start making a few mask for family and friends first I noticed she was making a louder noise and then the bobbin holder started popping up; I bought a new bobbin holder and she only worked good for a few days now the same thing is happening along with bending the needle. So disappointing since the machine might have 20 hours of sewing time. I read somewhere there was a callback on this model but my dealer said he never heard of a callback. Looking for answers.
I love this machine. The table is a great accessory for sewing. I am having an issue with it jumbling the bobbin thread the first 2-3 stitches then it works fine. If I use the cutter function, it is sewing that thread into my stitches underneath and it looks very sloppy. Anyone else have this issue or is it just me?
Yes I have always had that problem the start of the seam underneath looks awful …don’t know why
I just started having the same problem with the bobbin thread all jumbled up under neath. How did you fix the problem?
Have owned my Janome 3160qdc for a few years. Have problems with looping on bottom stitching. Now: needle picks up bobbin thread but will not pull it up to the top. Very frustrating. Love the machine for all of your above listed reasons . Would appreciate your help.
Hello,
Thank you for this review. I already own this machine but it was nice to read I made a good choice (for once!).
I have tried to free motion quilt on this machine and cannot seem to get it set up correctly. The problem is my stitches are too tight and quickly break. I drop the feed dogs and set the stitch length to 0 but I am unsure what the pressure foot and the thread tension should be set at. Any insight you can offer would be so appreciated!!
If you are comfortable with adjusting your bobbin tension, it should be decreased in increments of an eighth to a quarter turn counterclockwise. Janome also offers a bobbin case specifically made for FMQ. Hope this helps.
Following I have same problem
I’m having trouble with the foot peddle. The dealer has given me a new one also put a new “before my warranty was up” computer in my machine couple years later the footpedal is acting up again I Purchased one now this one is acting up. I love this machine, this problem is very frustrating. I’ve purchased in 2012 and now have gone through 3 foot pedals.
Does a quilting foot come with the basic Janome 3160QDC
I have had this machine for a couple of months. I am a very experienced sewer and have to say this machine has some very irritating design issues. There is very little room in the needle area to thread the machine. The needle threaded shreds the thread so it is better to just thread the needle by hand. Fabric wads in the needle plate opening and frequent removal of the needle plate is needed to dislodge the wad.
The machine sews alright but these issues are so annoying that I would not have purchased it if known.
Can I hem with the C foot straight on front of piece and #9 stitch on back of piece.
My Janome QD C 3160 doesn’t seem to like sewing over seams. It stalls, bangs and skips several stitches.
I’ve recently purchased a 2160 DC which looks a lot like the 3160 QDC, I can’t find any info anywhere on the 2160 DC so I was wondering how closely related these two machines are. Also, are the accessories interchangeable? I used to sew on my grandmothers singer a long time ago and want to get back to it so it’s my first electronic sewing machine. Any help will help.
Hi there! Just got my machine and am exploring stitches. I’d love to know the number of the stitch you’re calling the chain stitch. Thanks!
Janome.com says this machine is 12.6 lbs. and here it is said to weigh 14 lbs. Which weight is correct?
Also where can one purchase a bobbin case supporter Part Number 846222202. or spacer as are mentioned above? I have a Janome 659 purchased in 2000. I have the same problem of a loop of thread on the bottom just every once in awhile. I never know when it will happen. My retailer would replace my two-part bobbin case, but cannot get the parts for this old of a machine. I’m wondering if we could still get the part that is mentioned above.
Can you do a video for this machine so we can hear what it sounds like?
I bought this machine online January of 2019 but because of personal health issues was not able to test it for over a year. Naturallynot warranty anymore.
absolutely hate it. I bought it intending to quilt on it because my 35 year old Bernina doesn’t have much head space for the bulk of a quilt.
I lowered the feed dogs, used the walking foot that came with the machine as a bonus. I was not quilting anything bulky; but the bobbin kept piling up thread on the bottom and the walking foot would not walk. As a consequence my finished product was less than I would wish to be desired.
I thought that part of the problem was the bobbin winding, so I wound my bobbin on my trusty old Bernina and then put it in the new machine to sew. That helped a little; but not much.
I’m so sorry I bought it.
I love my Janome 3160 QDC. Excellent portable for classes (lightweight). Have sewn great for many years and still have it. I have one issue right now is the dang inability to change the light bulb. Evidently when Janome created this machine they did not intend for you to change the bulb or replace with a brighter one. You have to have secondary lighting source.
I’m having a few problem with this machine. I don’t know how to fix them.
Bad luck, i’m searching for here and there but no fixes for those issues!
Por favor quisiera ver un video de como pasar el hilo para iniciar una costura en mi JANOME 3160QDC
Is it a low shank or high shank? The 3160
it is a low shank machine