Partner disclosure: SewingInsight.com is a participant in the Ebay Partner Network and Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We earn a small advertising fees by linking to products on Ebay and Amazon. This does not increase the price for you as a reader but you will support our small business.
Janome DC 5100 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This review was originally written in 2014, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternative computerized home sewing machines such as Brother CS7000X, Brother CP100X, and SINGER Making The Cut.
While visiting Stuart Sew and Vac in Jensen Beach, Florida, I had an opportunity to review the Janome DC 5100.
After reading a lot of very good things about this computerized sewing machine, I was truly pleased to finally be able to actually work on it myself.
Janome DC 5100 Overview
The Janome DC 5100 is a computerized sewing machine that offers a range of features to make sewing easier and more efficient. It has 167 built-in stitches, including utility stitches, decorative stitches, and buttonhole stitches. The machine also features a backlit LCD display screen, which shows stitch settings and other important information.
Other features of the Janome DC 5100 include a start/stop button, which allows you to sew without using the foot pedal, and a speed control slider, which lets you adjust the sewing speed to suit your needs. The machine also has an automatic needle threader, which helps you easily thread the needle, and a drop-in bobbin system for easy bobbin changes. It also has a maximum sewing speed of 820 stitches per minute and a variety of presser feet included to suit different project needs. Overall, the Janome DC 5100 is a reliable and user-friendly sewing machine for both beginners and experienced sewers.
Believe it or not, the first thing that caught my eye was the accent color. For almost as long as I can remember, pink has been one of my signature colors.
The particular shade of pink never seemed to matter. As long as it is pink, it is all right with me. The pink accents on the Janome DC5100 somehow called out to me. It wasn’t until I actually walked up on the machine did I even notice that it was a Janome.
In addition to the pink accents, the Janome DC5100 has an on board stitch guide, needle up/down, auto design stop and reverse buttons, a drop in bobbin, a variable speed control slider, a numerical touchpad and a backlit LCD screen with adjustable lighting.
The seam guide extends beyond the needle plate with extended seam markings etched onto the bed of the machine itself and an on board accessories case that comes off to give users access to the large free arm.
What are the features on Janome DC 5100?
- 167 built-in stitches
- 1 alphanumeric font
- 5 one-step buttonholes
- Automatic thread tension control
- Built-in needle threader
- Snap-on presser feet
- Memorized needle up/down
- 7-piece feed dog
- Drop feed
- Locking stitch button
- Variable speed control slider
- Reverse stitch
- Extra high presser foot lift
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Hard Cover
Working on the Janome DC 5100
Winding the bobbin and threading the Janome DC 5100 is easy enough for any beginner, regardless of age, to accomplish with ease.
Even people who have been sewing for many years might sometimes need a little assistance when it comes to these essential functions, and the easy-to-follow on-board guides that lead you through the entire process of winding the bobbin and threading the machine come in handy regardless of your skill level.
Once the machine is threaded and the bobbin is in place, the next step is to select the desired stitch. The Janome DC 5100 has a menu selection button on the immediate right side of the LCD screen.
There are three different menu settings. The first setting is for utility stitches; the second is for decorative stitches; and the third position is for the alphanumeric font.
To select a utility stitch, press the menu button once in order for the utility stitch icon to appear in the window.
Then refer to the stitch selection guide and dial up the desired stitch number on the numerical touchpad. When you want to use a decorative or alphanumeric stitch, follow the same process.
For this review, I sampled several utility and decorative stitch options. As expected, each stitch came out with perfect results, maintaining Janome’s high standards of performance and excellence.
All of the stitches were perfectly formed, tight, and sturdy. The balance and tension were perfect each and every time.
What are some alternatives for Janome DC 5100?
We have reviewed several home sewing machines similar to the Janome DC 5100 and here are some alternatives that we recommend.
Introducing the sleek and powerful Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine in a dazzling shade of white! Crafted with a sturdy metal frame, this 14-pound powerhouse is designed to effortlessly handle any project you throw at it.
Imagine a world of endless possibilities with 70 built-in stitches that cover everything from utility to decorative, heirloom to quilting, and seven one-step auto-size buttonholes for flawless closures every single time. Tired of fumbling with threads? Say hello to the hassle-free automatic needle threader and top bobbins that never jam!
But wait, there's more! The CS7000X offers an expansive needle-to-arm workspace, making those grand quilting dreams a reality. And don't forget the bonus goodies—a wide table, 10 sewing feet, and a quilt guide—all in the box, ready to fuel your creative fire.
Heading to a sewing class or on a crafting adventure? No problem! This beauty comes with a protective hard case, ensuring your machine stays as pristine as your stitches.
With its fixed needle bar for pinpoint accuracy and a modern design that screams "creativity at its best," the Brother CS7000X is more than a sewing machine; it's your sewing soulmate. Order now and redefine your craft!
- Fantastic for novices
- Simple to use
- Light-weight and transportable
- Includes a wide table
- Unsuitable for heavy materials or free-motion quilting
- Problems with needle placement can occur
- Restricted functionality for knowledgeable users
The Brother CP100X is a computerized sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features 100 built-in stitches, including eight styles of one-step buttonholes, and a bright LCD display that shows stitch information and allows you to easily select and adjust your stitches. The machine also includes an automatic needle threading system, which makes threading the needle effortless, and a drop feed for free-motion quilting. The CP100X comes with a variety of convenient features, such as a start/stop button for sewing without a foot pedal, a speed control slider, and a built-in thread cutter. It also includes a range of sewing feet, including a quilting foot, monogramming foot, and zipper foot, among others, to help you tackle a range of sewing tasks. Additionally, the machine includes an extra-wide table for larger projects, a bright LED work area, and a jam-resistant Quick-Set drop-in top bobbin. The CP100X is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take to sewing classes or move around the house. It also includes a hard protective case for storage and transport. Overall, the Brother CP100X is a versatile and reliable machine that offers a range of features to help you complete a variety of sewing projects with ease.
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
Which fabrics work on the Janome DC 5100?
| 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) Upholstery Leather/suede | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
What are the accessories that come with Janome DC 5100?
- 10 Snap on presser feet
- Straight stitch foot
- Zigzag foot
- Satin stitch foot
- Zipper foot
- Automatic buttonhole foot
- Overedge foot
- Blind hem foot
- Darning foot
- ¼” seam foot
- Walking foot
- Quilt guide
- 4 bobbins
- Spool pin felt
- Assorted needle set
- Additional spool pin
- Seam ripper/Buttonhole opener
- Large screwdriver
- Lint brush
- 2 spool holders (1 large/1 small)
- Spool stand
- Owner’s manual
How to maintain the Janome DC 5100?
| 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 DC 5100 Summary
To conclude my review, the Janome DC 5100 is one of those sewing machines that truly stands up to the name and reputation of its manufacturer. It is a sturdy, well made computerized sewing machine that performs great.
The stitch quality is excellent. It is easy to use, has easy-to-follow on board guides, and is, in my opinion, a great choice for beginners above the age of 10 or 12.
The only hesitation I have about recommending the Janome DC 5100 for use by younger children is the stitch selection process.
I believe children younger than 10 will need lots and lots of supervision because of the additional steps needed to access the different stitch types. But, don’t for a minute believe that the Janome DC 5100 is just for beginners.
Anyone, regardless of how long they may have been sewing, will be able to appreciate the Janome DC 5100 for its many features, the workmanship that went into making this machine, and the stitch quality.
Of all its features, I believe one of my favorites is the adjustable light on the LCD screen. This simple feature is ideal because it allows the user to accommodate changes in the level of lighting in your sewing room.
If you are like me, you are likely to find yourself at the sewing machine any time of day or night. If you’re sewing at 1:00 AM, the room light is much different than it is at 1:00 PM.
Turning on the main machine light is one thing. Adjusting for the change in room lighting on the LCD screen can make a big difference when it comes to the amount of eye strain you experience – especially when you’re sewing late at night.
The Janome DC 5100 is available only through authorized Janome dealers. If you want to add one to your sewing room the $999 MSRP should not cause you to hesitate.
Yes. There are less costly basic computerized sewing machines on the market, but as the saying goes, “you get what you pay for.”
If the MSRP does not fit in your budget, most dealers have reasonable financing terms. In addition, I advise you to stay in touch with your local Janome dealer so you will get advance notice of sales that they all have from time to time.
My advice is that if you really want to add the Janome DC 5100 to your sewing room but are not in a position to run out and get one right away, make a point of getting on the mailing list of your local Janome dealer and let them know which machine you are interested in. You might just be surprised at how accessible the machine of your dreams really is.
Janome DC 5100 Review
Summary
The Janome DC 5100 is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for beginners and intermediate sewers. It has a variety of features that make it a great choice for a variety of sewing projects, including 29 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, speed control slider, LED light, sewing lettering, one-step buttonhole, free arm, and built-in extension table. It is a great choice for sewers who are looking for a machine that is easy to use and can handle a variety of fabrics and projects. However, it is important to note that the Janome DC 5100 does not have as many features as some other machines, so it may not be the best choice for experienced sewers.
Recommended Posts
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.
I, too, am attracted to pink! Matters not on the shade, just that it is pink! I want a pink sewing machine, too!
I currently own a 2008 Pfaff model 2023. I basically piece quilt tops, sew bags, table runners, and the occasional home dec project. I wouldn’t mind embroidery, but lack the confidence to do it and ask myself ‘ for the extra cost on the machine, would I get my use out of it?’
I am asking for your advice and opinion as someone who has extensive knowledge and is unbiased.
Please help!!
Thank you!!
I have a Kenmore 385.19233 which is the same thing as this style of Janome. The machine is very sturdy and has a lot of bells and whistles for its price range! The only downfall is it’s ability to see through multiple layers or heavy fabrics. The motor just isn’t strong enough to pull this off. I have had my Kenmore now for 15 years and had bought it used. It has proven itself to be a wonderful, dependable machine!
Thanks for your review. I just wonder why this machine can sew on leather, but not denim, canvas or twill? You also said the con of this model is that it’s a bit slower than some machines in its class. So what is its maximum stitch per minute? Thank you.