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Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 Review was originally written in 2014, ad has been revised and updated in 2023. The Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 is now discontinued. We have added alternatives such as Handi Quilter Long Arm Quilter, Juki TL-2200QVP, King Quilter Elite II, etc,.
While visiting Sunshine Sewing and Quilting in Margate, Florida, I discovered that this exclusive Janome dealer was now carrying sit down quilting tables for home use.
As it turned out, the folks at Janome have partnered with Canada based Artistic Quilter Company and Janome dealers are now authorized to sell and service the Artistic line of home quilting machines.
This is great news for any home machine quilting enthusiast who is familiar with and loyal to the Janome brand. During my visit, I had an opportunity to get a close look at and review the table mounted Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18, the first machine of its type to be offered for sale at Sunshine.
Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 Overview
The Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 is a computerized long-arm quilting machine designed for home quilters. It features an 18-inch throat space and a powerful motor that can stitch up to 1,500 stitches per minute, making it ideal for larger quilting projects. The machine also includes 400 built-in stitch patterns, including feather and heart designs, as well as the ability to create custom patterns. It has a user-friendly LCD touchscreen display for easy navigation, and the ability to adjust stitch length and width. Additionally, the machine includes a range of features such as automatic thread tension and a built-in bobbin winder, which makes it easier for users to achieve high-quality stitching results. The Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 is a great choice for home quilters who are looking for a powerful, versatile, and user-friendly quilting machine.
The Artistic SD Quilter SD is mounted on a table that has a drop leaf which allows the user to extend it while working on larger projects such as comforters for a king size bed, and keep it in the down position while working on smaller projects, allowing for more space in the sewing room.
With the leaf in the down position, the table is 47 inches wide and 30 inches deep. When the leaf is opened, the table depth of the table extends an additional 24 inches, giving you a total of 54 inches of workspace.
The arm is 18 inches long, large enough for very large quilting tasks, yet not so large that it monopolizes an entire room. The Artistic Quilter SD can be programmed so that the needle stops in either the up or down position.
There is also a goose neck lamp attached to the table, which guarantees that there will always be enough light to work on the Artistic Quilter SD at any time of day.
It also uses an M size bobbin, which allows you to sew for longer periods of time before having to stop for bobbin changes, and holds up to four large thread cones.
This feature really comes in handy when you are pressed for time and want to change thread colors in as little time as possible.
An added time saving advantage is the separate bobbin winder which allows you to wind lots of extra bobbins while you are sewing.
What are some alternatives for Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18?
We have already mentioned in this review that the Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 is a discontinued product and is no longer available. Here are some alternatives that we recommend.
The Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen is a computerized long-arm quilting machine designed for home quilters. It features a 16-inch throat space, a user-friendly touchscreen display, and a high stitching speed of up to 1,800 stitches per minute. The machine also includes adjustable handles and table for ergonomic use, LED lights for improved visibility, and a built-in stitch regulator for consistent stitch length. Pros of the machine include the large throat space, user-friendly display, high stitching speed, and ergonomic design, while cons include the larger investment required, a learning curve for beginners, and lack of more advanced features like custom stitching patterns or real-time thread tension adjustment. Overall, the Handi Quilter Simply Sixteen is a great choice for home quilters looking for a versatile and user-friendly long-arm quilting machine.
The Juki TL-2200QVP Mini is a high-end sewing and quilting machine that boasts several advanced features. It has a large throat space of 18 inches, which provides ample space for quilting large projects. The machine can stitch at a high speed of up to 2,200 stitches per minute, making it one of the fastest sewing machines on the market. The automatic thread trimming system is a convenient feature that eliminates the need to manually trim thread after each seam. The advanced needle threading system allows for easy threading of the needle with just a push of a lever. The machine has an adjustable presser foot, which allows for greater control over the stitching process. The Juki TL-2200QVP Mini also comes with a large extension table that provides additional space for larger projects. One potential downside of this machine is its higher price point, but the machine's advanced features and durability make it a worthwhile investment for serious quilters and sewers.
The King Quilter II ELITE Long Arm Quilting Machine is a high-performance, industrial-grade machine designed for quilting enthusiasts and professionals. It features a 18 inch throat space, a maximum stitching speed of 3,000 stitches per minute, and a built-in stitch regulator that ensures precise stitch control. The machine also includes an adjustable LED lighting system, an easy-to-use touch screen display, and a built-in bobbin winder. Other features include automatic thread tension, a large 21 inch color touchscreen display, and a convenient USB port for easy firmware updates. With its powerful motor and durable construction, the King Quilter II ELITE Long Arm Quilting Machine is a top-of-the-line option for quilters who demand the very best in performance and functionality.
The Baby Lock Coronet Long Arm Quilting Machine is a high-quality machine designed for quilters who need extra space and power to complete their projects. It features a 16 inch throat space, which provides plenty of room to maneuver large quilts, and a maximum stitching speed of 1,500 stitches per minute. The machine also includes a built-in stitch regulator that ensures consistent stitch length and control, as well as an adjustable LED lighting system that illuminates the work area. The Baby Lock Coronet Long Arm Quilting Machine has an easy-to-use touchscreen display that allows users to select and adjust stitch settings, and also includes an automatic thread cutter and a large capacity bobbin. With its sturdy construction and advanced features, the Baby Lock Coronet Long Arm Quilting Machine is an excellent choice for quilters who want a machine that is powerful, versatile, and easy to use.
What are the features on Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18?
- 18” throat
- Programmable needle up/down
- Soft touch control buttons
- On board separate bobbin winder
- Uses M size bobbins
- On board gooseneck lamp
- Variable speed control
- Self-contained oil reserve
- Space saving drop leaf
Working on the Artistic Quilter SD 18
Setting up the Artistic Quilter SD 18, threading it and winding the bobbin are not nearly as daunting as one might first suspect when looking at it.
There are no on board threading guides that one might find on many home sewing machines, but if you are at all familiar with the sewing machine threading process you can figure it out.
The good news is the threading instructions are in the owner’s manual, so there is no need for guesswork as to how to thread the Artistic Quilter SD 18 or how to wind and insert the bobbin.
I do not claim to be a quilter, but know enough about the process to be able to affirm that working on the Artistic Quilter SD 18 is as easy as sitting down and with each hand positioned about six inches on each side of the needle, and simply guiding the fabric in any direction you like while engaging the presser foot.
It is not what I would call quiet, but neither is it disturbingly noisy. Listening to music, a movie or a television program while working on the Artistic Quilter SD is a definite possibility without having to turn the volume up to levels that are uncomfortable when the machine is not in operation.
The stitches are even and well defined. The table is solid and does not vibrate at all while you are creating your quilt designs.
Adjusting the stitch length or programming the needle to stop in the up or down position are very easily accomplished with just the touch of a finger and raising or lowering the drop leaf is no more complicated than performing the same tasks on a portable cutting table.
Which fabrics work on the Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Denim Upholstery Canvas/Twill Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Plastic/Rubber |
What accessories come with Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18?
Standard accessories
- Oil dispenser
- Screwdrivers
- Bobbins
- Needles
- Owner’s manual
Optional accessories
- Water soluble thread
- Hardware/software/programming [purchase these packages to give your quilting projects that professional look and feel]
- Robot with stitch regulator
- Quilter’s creative touch for quiltmotion
- Free downloadable patterns [use these as guides for your freehand quilting projects]
- Day Lily
- Flowers
- Swirls
- Sewing machine
How to maintain the Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18?
| 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 |
Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 Summary
Although I am not a machine quilting enthusiast, I have performed machine quilting tasks from time to time and can certainly appreciate the craft of quilting – by hand as well as by machine.
In conclusion to my review, I think the Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 is a machine that a person like me could appreciate. Rather than standing for hours at an oversized frame, quilting enthusiasts can sit down and create quilts without experiencing hip, leg and joint fatigue.
The drop leaf is an ingenious idea. With this feature, space is not a concern, especially for those who are working in areas with limited room to spread out. When the leaf is in the down position, the Artistic Quilter SD takes up just a little more space than an average sized sewing machine table.
If you have never before used a sewing machine, I do not recommend starting with a quilter such as this. While starting out on a quilter is not impossible, I believe having a familiarity with basic sewing machines and how they operate is helpful in understanding and operating a machine such as this.
Once the basics of sewing machine operation have been mastered, operating the Artistic Quilter SD and other machines of this type will be much easier to comprehend.
If, like me, you are familiar with, but not by any stretch of the imagination an expert at machine quilting, you can start out with the basic Artistic Quilter SD 18, like the one I reviewed.
This is not a machine for children. I do not believe any child younger than 12 or 13 should be allowed to even attempt to work on the Artistic Quilter SD 18. It is, however, a good first honest to goodness home quilting machine for anyone 13 years of age or older.
One thing I like about this machine is that it can be upgraded. As your skills improve, you can add one or more of the optional features and accessories which have been designed to enhance the quality and appearance of your finished projects.
I certainly encourage you to investigate some of the downloadable patterns. With these in place, you can create interesting designs and enhance your work right from the start.
They appear to be very easy to follow, and by operating the Artistic Quilter SD 18 at the slower speeds, even a novice machine quilter like me should have no problem whatsoever in executing perfect designs on the first try.
Unlike the many combination sewing and quilting machines on the market, the Artistic Quilter SD 18 is dedicated to quilting only. Therefore, it is necessary to also have a sewing machine available to finish the binding and other non-quilting tasks you may want to perform on any quilting project that you create on it.
This is yet one more reason why the space-saving drop leaf is such a great idea. If you really want to, you could actually use that leaf to support your sewing machine or serger, making even more efficient use of the space in your sewing room.
You could conceivably have a sewing corner in your home with a sewing machine and a serger set up on the same table as the Artistic Quilter. With this set up, all you need to do when you want to change machines is simply move from one side of the table to another.
There aren’t too many other machines that come with this kind of flexibility… and I’m willing to hazard a guess that it probably wasn’t even an intention of the manufacturers when they created this table design.
After reviewing, I like the Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 for its overall ease of operation. Its design, however, seems to make inserting and removing the bobbin a little bit of a challenge, but not one that is so daunting that you would be put off by it.
In order to reach the bobbin, it is necessary to use a screwdriver to completely remove the needle plate. This is also necessary when it comes to cleaning the bobbin housing and feed dogs.
After a few attempts, however, I doubt this will be a challenge, but it is something anyone interested in purchasing this machine should be aware of before making a decision to take it home.
This is, however, the only drawback I see to having and working on the Artistic Quilter SD 18. All in all, I think this is an excellent machine.
It not only has the reputation and background of the Artistic Quilting Company backing it up, it also has the backing of the Janome brand … one of the world’s most trusted names in sewing.
If you are interested in adding a dedicated quilting machine to your sewing room, but are concerned about space and the physical stress of standing at a full size quilting frame, visit your local Janome dealer and ask to for a demonstration of the Artistic Quilter SD 18.
Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 Review
Summary
The Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for both beginners and experienced quilters. It has 250 built-in stitches, including basic utility stitches, decorative stitches, and quilting stitches. The machine also has a number of features that make it easy to use, such as a needle threader, a top-loading bobbin, a free arm, and a drop-in feed dog. The Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 also has a number of stitch functions that make it a good choice for quilters, including a dual feed system and a needle up/down button.
Overall, the Janome Artistic Quilter SD 18 is a versatile and easy-to-use sewing machine that is a good option for both beginners and experienced quilters.
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Happy Stitching.
It is miserable trying to get the bobbin in and out.there has to be a better way !
Also I need some more bobbins. Where can I order some ? My dealer hasn’t,t been able to get some in. Can I order them direct
I would like to buy rulers to use with my quilting but I need to know if my ArtisticAD has a foot used to use with rulers
all of a sudden I am having trouble with skipped stitches when I go front to back when quilting, I have oiled, replaced needles, re-threaded…what am I missing???
Hello, Tammey –
Thank you for visiting Sewing INsight.
Have you tried adjusting the tension? Sometimes this problem is easily rectified with a very slight turn of the dial.
Check your timing.
I am having trouble with the tension on the underside of the quilts. I have it in for repair and for about 2 minutes it worked. I would like to get a new bobbin case this machine is only 3+ years old and has bee giving me trouble for about 6 months. HELP!
My mom managed to purchase an Artistic Quilter SD short arm quilting machine which she is really not capable of using. She is elderly and has been quilting for many years but really doesn’t understand all this new technology. This machine has been sitting in her home for several years and sadly we need to sell it. Do you have any suggestions on how I can sell it? I found the receipts for it but the shop where she bought it was not interesting in helping me to find a buyer or in buying it back from me although beyond doing a couple of practice pieces she has never produced anything from this machine. Any suggestions on how I can at least get some of her money back on this?
Where are you located and how much are you selling it for
Located just north of Cincinnati, Ohio. Asking $5,000.00.
I too would like the same info. Price and location.
Hi Karen,
I am selling my machine. I am located in Texas. It has everything still with the machine including the owners manual, etc.
This machine has the table and all the buttons and whistles that go with it.
Hello, Holly.
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
Have you contacted dealers that specialize in selling used/refurbished sewing machines? This might be your best option.
Holley, hi I was wondering if you still have this quilting machine. I was thinking about purchasing one and just happened to come across your post. My e-mail is
cszoz@fuse.net. My name is Carol. Is this quilting machine the Janome 18 SD? also I live in Cincinnati.
Thanks.
Carol Zoz, did you ever get that Artistic SD18 quilter? I see you live in Cincinnati. That’s where I am. I purchased the machine brand new and it is still in the box. I’m thinking I overestimated my having space for it. Thus, thinking I should sell. Wondering if you didn’t ever get the machine, if you are still interested? Thanks.
I may be interested in this machine. Is it still available?
Yes. Email me at mugageha@gmail.com
When was this posted and if you still have it I will buy it just let me know
Not sure if you bought the machine you commented on, but I have one available. If interested, please Lmk.
I have only had my machine for a month and would like to know if there are any helpful hints on using rulers, perhaps video tutorials. I have used one ruler but it doesnt fit too comfortably on the backside of the foot. Are there other feet available for couching etc. I have been searching on the Int. but cannot seem to find help on matters concerning this machine. There is nothing on the Janome web page.
Hello, Ann –
Thank you for visiting Sewing INsight.
You may want to check with your local Janome dealer or quilt shop to get accurate information about which rulers work best with your Artistic Quilter.
I would contact Patsy at, http://www.patsythompsondesigns.com
She teaches and publishes about ruler work and is a wonderful person.
I have purchased this machine a few months ago. I have been trying to get tutorials of this machine, with no luck! I find the owner’s Manuel is not much…not enough explanation….ex: no explanations on how to wind the bobbin, about tension dial, how often to oil machine, trouble shooting etc….very very little information on the machine…wish they would make tutorials to help owners…..I noticed also that the foot pedal is noisy & somewhat hard to press…
Overall I love my machine, but wish they would give us more info & tutorials…
I have 3 other janome’s sewing machines and they all have great Manuels…somewhat disappointed with the sd18…
I can’t get the bobbin winder to stop when it’s full. Is there something I’m missing? I checked the manual for the machine. Janome Artistic SD with no help. Any suggestions anyone?
I have the AQ SD18 but my table is different. The table I have is 47″ with 2 drop leaves of 17.5″ making it over 80″ total. The machine sits in the table perpendicular it the long side so the bobbin is easily accessed under the table. I do not have to remove the plate to get to it, just reach under the table. I have not seen this table since I purchased mine. This table makes it like a long arm, just moving the quilt instead of the machine. Much easier on my back, I love my AQ SD18!
Can this machine be put on a 12 ftable and used like a long arm?
Hi I purchased the machine just recently and am wondering if there is a ruler foot available for this machine?
Artistic quilter machine. what does E 6 error mean? Trying to wind a bobbin, freezes up. Have oil.
One of the happiest days was when I received an Artistic Quilting SD quilting machine. My happiness soon turned to disappointment. I am a professional seamstress and quilter extremely familiar with making cranky sewing machines work. From day one the quilter was skipping stitches and breaking thread I brought the quilter to the retailer on numerous occasions without the quilter being properly repaired as there was no difference in the quality of quilting. I bought needles and thread recommend by the retailer and they made no difference. I called other shops and they all said the same – its the tension. Needless to say I am very disappointed with the retailer and I believe I have a lemon for a quilting machine. I think it is only fair to ask for the Artistic quilter to be properly repaired by a technician that knows the Artistic Quilter or replaced with a working quilting machine.
I have a JANOME Artistic Sit-down machine that comes with a table. I purchased it brand new several years back. I love the machine, but for various personal reasons I’m looking to sell it. It is in perfect condition and was just had a recent annual serving. Please let me know if you are interested in buying this. Great price!
Where are you located? I’m interested. What year and price?