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Janome HD 1000 Review (2023 update)
Note from the Editor: This Janome HD 1000 review was originally written in 2013, revised in 2023 with updated content and newer, better alternatives. The best alternatives to the Janome HD 1000 are the Janome HD 3000, the Singer 4432 and the Brother ST150HDH.
The HD in Janome HD 1000 stands for Heavy Duty, and that’s exactly what this machine is. It’s one of the very few all metal sewing machines made for home that are still being manufactured.
Janome HD1000 Sewing Machine Review: Overview
Balancing affordability and performance, the Janome HD1000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine is a reliable choice for everyday sewing tasks. With 14 built-in stitches, including utility and stretch stitches, plus a simple 4-step buttonhole, it caters to a range of applications. The cast aluminum body echoes the durability of vintage machines, ensuring lasting quality. Accessories, such as bobbins, needles, and various presser feet enhance versatility. The free arm facilitates sewing cuffs and collars, while the drop feed allows for darning and other free-motion applications. The added convenience of a built-in automatic needle threader makes this Janome model an accessible and enduring companion for sewists of varied skill levels.
- Made of heavy-duty metal
- Designed to work with heavy fabrics
- While it's running, it can be a little noisy
- It may struggle with delicate fabrics
At A Glance
The Janome HD 1000 doesn’t even look like the other brand new sewing machines. It looks like one of the sewing machines that was sold back in the 1970s. The Janome HD 1000 does not have the curved lines or hard plastic shell that we see on practically all of the newer models.
It has two large dials on the front. One dial is used to select stitches and the other to adjust stitch length. The oversized reverse button is beneath the stitch length adjustment dial and the stitch selection guide is displayed across the top of the machine. There is a built in needle threader, a thread cutter, a dial to control tension adjustment and the needle plate has seam guides etched on it.
Features
- 14 utility stitches
- 1 four-step buttonhole
- Lay-in, manual thread tension control
- Built-in needle threader
- 3-piece feed dog
- Drop feed
- Free arm
- Reverse stitch lever
- Built in thread cutter
Working on the Janome HD 1000
The Janome HD 1000’s bobbin is wound in the same way that bobbins were wound on older sewing machines. To wind the bobbin, you have to move the needle out of the way by giving the stop motion wheel inside the hand wheel a half turn. To re-engage the needle, simply turn the stop motion wheel back to its original position. The Janome HD 1000 has a front loaded bobbin that is not accessible unless the accessory case/workspace is removed. The drop feed control lever is a small metal lever located to the right of the race hook, which, in my opinion, is a much better location than the back of the free arm, but not my first choice.
Threading the Janome HD 1000 was a little tricky. Again, the process is nothing like threading most of the newer sewing machines. Most sewing machines are threaded from right to left. When threading the HD 1000 machine, the thread goes from left to right instead. Selecting stitches is as easy as dialing up the desired stitch number. The quality of the stitches is excellent. The only thing anyone would be able to complain about when it comes to these stitches is that there are no decorative stitches, but then, no one would expect to find decorative stitches on a heavy duty sewing machine.
Alternatives to the Janome HD 1000
The best alternatives to the Janome HD 1000 are the Janome HD 3000, the Singer 4432 and the Brother ST150HDH. Detailed below –
For those delving into robust sewing projects, the Janome HD3000 stands as a reliable companion, excelling in heavy-duty tasks like sewing denim. Geared towards beginners and seasoned sewists, this mechanical marvel boasts 18 stitches, including a buttonhole feature. The built-in needle threader and reverse stitch lever enhance efficiency, while the snap-on presser feet and foot pressure adjustment cater to diverse fabric needs. With a durable metal internal frame, a removable free arm, and a top-loading, jam-proof bobbin, the HD3000 ensures dependable stitching. The inclusive hard cover and instructional guide make this sewing machine an accessible choice for a wide range of sewing endeavors.
- Good for sewing heavy fabrics
- Good quality for the price
- Speed control with floor controller is excellent
- Powerful and reliable
- Thread tangling problems
- Not good for small curves in leather sewing
Read the detailed Janome HD 3000 review here
Experience the power of the Singer Heavy-Duty 4432 sewing machine, designed for lasting durability with its heavy-duty metal frame. This versatile machine offers 110 stitch applications, from basic to decorative, conveniently displayed on the user-friendly Stitch Selector Dial. Benefit from features like automatic one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, and enhanced piercing power for sewing through multiple layers. With a faster motor, it sews up to 1,100 stitches per minute, making it ideal for larger projects. Explore creativity effortlessly with the Singer 4432, equipped with top-notch features for sewing enthusiasts.
- Versatile machine with box feed for continuous fabric pressure
- Adjustable feed and pressure settings
- Can sew heavy denim and handle different fabric weights
- Good for basic sewing tasks
- Reliable for occasional sewing and repairs
- Bobbin tension is not self-adjusting
- Confusing setup instructions and bobbin threading
- May struggle with very thick leather
The Brother ST150HDH caters to sewing enthusiasts tackling a spectrum of projects. Boasting a wide array of features, including 50 built-in stitches and advanced needle threading, it effortlessly handles various fabrics, from heavy-weight denim to delicate silks. The expanded needle-to-arm workspace accommodates bulkier projects, while the included accessories, such as 9 sewing feet and clear-view bobbin cover, enhance versatility. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a budding creative, this machine provides precise stitching control, making it an ideal companion for a diverse range of sewing endeavors.
- Beginner-friendly
- Durable and long-lasting
- Some users complained about the machine's quality
Janome HD 1000: 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 Leather / Suede Fur Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
Accessories
- 3 snap on presser feet
- Buttonhole foot
- Zipper foot
- Hemmer foot
- Bobbins
- Felt
- Needle set
- Large screwdriver
- Small screwdriver
- Small screwdriver
- Oil
- Hem guide
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 HD 1000 takes me back to the time when sewing machines could be handed down from one generation to the next. It is a solid sewing machine that doesn’t have many of the frills people have come to expect on a new sewing machine. However, it does have the essential features—a built in needle threader and an onboard thread cutter.
Winding the bobbin and threading the Janome HD 1000 certainly takes one back a few years, but adjusting to performing these tasks the old fashioned way takes only a few minutes and if you never threaded a machine or wound a bobbin this way, learning these techniques is very easy. The front loading bobbin is a minor drawback if you are working with the accessories case/work table in place. Getting to the drop feed control is in some ways easier than other new sewing machines, but still a hassle.
With the Janome HD 1000, it is necessary to not only remove the accessories case/work table, it is also necessary to open the bobbin door. One of these days, they’ll put it back on the front of the machine, where I believe it belongs. The Janome HD 1000 is a good machine for children to use when learning how to sew. It is also a great choice for the home sewer with intermediate or advanced skills if they concentrate on using only basic utility stitches, and the affordable manufacturer’s suggested retail price is attractive for any budget conscious home sewer who wants a good basic sewing machine.
If you are among the millions of home sewers who love to sew but do not get excited about having a ton of decorative stitches or a lot of extras, the Janome HD 1000 just might be for you. It’s a good, functional, dependable sewing machine – and that’s all that it is.
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 Machines 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 HD 1000 Review
Summary
The HD1000 Janome sewing machine is an excellent buy for heavy-duty sewing purposes. It boasts a lot of the practical features people would expect on a more expensive sewing machine.
Consistent performance on a broad range of fabrics, 13 of the most useful stitches, and one built-in buttonhole are all included in the Janome HD1000. You can also check the newer HD 3000 version if you’re willing to spend a few extra bucks
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.
What size bobbin does this take? Thank you!
Lois –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
All Janome sewing machines use the same standard Janome bobbin. They are available at any Janome dealer and online at http://www.janome.com.
I am trying to give 5 star rating but it won’t let me. I have had the Janome HD 1000 for about 2 months. I’ve been a seamstress over 30 years. This is the best machine ever!!!!! My husband is an amputee,and I have altered several pairs of thick blue jeans. I have replaced several zippers in jeans with this machine. I have made several tool bags out of canvas,which included zippers. I started my own sewing business the first of the year. This machine is great! For the price and durability, you can’t beat it. You
Can you help me? I,m looking for a strong simple sewing machine that will go the distance. I sew a lot don’t need fancy stitches but want a machine that is ready to work when I am, and do so for many years. Do you think this one may be it!
I would appreciate a threading video. I took mine in after having bobbin shuttle problems. The man fixed that, it sewed, and I took it home only to sew a dart before it stopped. Thread bunches up. I keep trying but am not getting anywhere.
Understand. After cleaning shuttle and replacing bobbin be sure that the cover levers
cover the small button type things. If you fail to do that the assembly will not stay in place. As for threading there are videos available on line. I use Google.
I can’t compare my HD1000 to another as this is the only machine I’ve had, and I’d buy another just like it. All I sew is heavy material, such as vinyl and canvas. I had to purchase a walking foot, but other than that the machine keeps running
I bought this machine after reading this review. An old-style machine was just what I was looking for. It seems great so far, but I am having difficulty adjusting the thread tension. Adjusting the dial for the top thread tension seems to do very little. Set at 4 or set at 9 I seem to get the same stitch results. (which it the top thread just poking through at the bottom. On my other machines this would be a matter of turning the dial up one number to fix)
Wish I liked my Janome HD 1000! I sew about 12″, then the bobbin messes up. Happens constantly. I’ve had it approx 2 years and haven’t used it more than an hour. I recently got the machine back out because my ” cheap” Singer I’ve used four many years quit. Well, the Janome, once again, sewed for a short distance and bobbin did the very same thing. Its worthless to me so my project is still unfinished. I will give it to anyone!