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Janome Jem Platinum 760 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Janome Jem Platinum 760 Review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added similar alternatives such as Brother CS5055, Janome 4120QDC, and Elnita EC30 .
I had the opportunity to review the tiny Janome Jem Platinum 760 on a recent visit to Sunshine Sewing and Quilting. It’s one of the smallest computerized sewing machines I have ever seen. I am pleased to report that for a machine this small, it is a great option for the sewer on the go.
Janome Jem Platinum 760 Overview
Janome Jem Platinum 760 is a mechanical sewing machine by Janome that covers more than just the basics. It comes with 60 inbuilt stitches, 5 one-step buttonholes, scroll stitch selection keys, adjustable stitch length and width, a four piece feed dog, and much more. The needle threader and thread cutter are automatic and built in as well. There is also a stretch stitch adjustment feature. The start/stop button is a convenient feature to operate the device and a speed control lever helps you adjust the stitching speed up to 650 stitches per minute. This may not be the best number when it comes to stitching speed that you have seen but the machine makes almost no noise or vibrations while stitching which is why the maximum stitching speed has been set to a slightly lower number.
The first thing I noticed about the Janome Jem Platinum 760 was its compact size. During the spring and summer months, I travel quite a bit and that means leaving my incomplete sewing jobs at home. The Janome Jem 760 has a bright backlit LCD screen which displays the selected stitch setting.
In addition, stitch selection buttons and function buttons that control the stitch length and width, the start/stop button, stitch lock function, reverse stitch, stitch locking and speed control glider are all clearly identified and within easy reach.
Beneath the needle is a clear bobbin cover which makes running out of bobbin thread almost impossible. The needle plate has seam guides etched on both sides of the needle and the on-board accessories case slides off easily to reveal the free arm.
What are some alternatives for Janome Jem Platinum 760?
The Janome Jem Platinum 760 is truly impressive for a computerized sewing machine but there are always alternatives that we like to recommend.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
The Janome 4120QDC is a top-notch computerized sewing machine that is both incredibly sturdy and light enough to move about with ease. It is a powerful sewing machine that can handle a wide range of fabrics. Despite the fact that this machine may appear to be pricey, less expensive alternatives just cannot match its level of excellence.
Threading is simple with the jam-proof bobbin, which also keeps your stitches from straying over the edge of your project. In the meantime, you can effortlessly regulate the stitching pace, make small adjustments, and pivot on corners thanks to the user-friendly control panel and LCD screen.
The machine will remain functional as your skill set expands with 120 stitch options and 7 buttonhole options. A protective case that comes with the device protects it from dust and other substances that can harm it. An instructional DVD is also included so you can learn more about the machine.
The Janome 4120QDC was created to be an all-purpose machine in general. It can complete practically any task you give it. It boasts a tonne of features that make it one of the most adaptable and powerful sewing machines available.
The Elnita EC30 Computerized Sewing Machine is a basic user-friendly machine that is perfect for sewers of all levels. With 30 built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, stretch, and buttonhole stitches, this machine offers a wide range of options for all types of sewing projects. The EC30 also features a large LCD display screen, which allows for easy navigation and access to a wide range of stitch options and settings. With a maximum sewing speed of 820 stitches per minute, the Elnita EC30 is a powerful machine that can handle even the most demanding sewing projects with ease. The machine also features a built-in needle threader and a drop-in bobbin system for easy use. Additionally, the EC30 comes with a range of accessories, including a hard cover, seven presser feet, and a wide extension table that provides ample space for larger projects. With its advanced features and high-quality construction, the Elnita EC30 Computerized Sewing Machine is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile machine that can handle a wide range of sewing tasks.
What features does the Janome Jem Platinum 760 come with?
While the Platinum 760 may not be what one might consider loaded with features, its standard features include everything essential feature a home sewer could ask for:
- 60 built in utility and decorative stitches, including 5 one step buttonholes
- 4 scroll stitch selection keys
- Stretch stitch adjustment
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- 4-piece feed dog
- Horizontal full rotary hook
- De-clutch bobbin winder
- Built-in needle threader and thread cutter
- Start/Stop button
- Speed control lever
- Needle up/down button
- Thread tension control
- Drop feed lever
- Snap-on presser foot conversion
- Horizontal spool pin
- Free arm / flat bed convertible
- Carrying handle
- Electronic foot control
Working on the Janome Jem Platinum 760
The process of threading any Janome sewing machine and winding the bobbin are the same regardless of the size or model. Each machine is clearly marked with numerical guides which will lead even the very youngest, most inexperienced of beginners through each step with ease.
The Janome Jem Platinum 760 has 60 utility and decorative stitch options, five of which are one step buttonholes. Each of the four function buttons at the far right side of the machine has 15 stitches designated to it.
Rather than fumble around trying to find the right button for the stitch you want, a slide out stitch selection guide is conveniently attached to the bottom of the machine.
To select a specific stitch, you must first depress the button which denotes the group in which your stitch is located; then press the group button until the desired stitch number appears on the LCD screen.
The quality of the stitches produced by the Janome Jem Platinum 760 is equal to the quality of Janomes that are much larger and heavier. They are well defined, secure and sturdy.
During this review, several utility and decorative stitch options were sampled and each and every one of them came out perfectly without any adjustment to tension, length or width settings.
If, however, you do decide you want to adjust the stitch width or length, doing so is as easy as touching the buttons that control length and width.
By touching the plus or minus signs on the buttons, the size and density of your stitches are increased or decreased. You really couldn’t ask for anything simpler than that, could you?
To top it off, the Janome Jem Platinum 760 has the feel of much larger machine. There is no vibration. It is quiet and although it may not be as fast as its larger counterparts, it holds its own with a maximum sewing speed of about 650 stitches per minute.
Which fabrics work on the Janome Jem Platinum 760?
| 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 accessories come with the Janome Jem Platinum 760?
The standard list of available with the Janome Jem Platinum 760 includes:
- 4 Presser Feet
- Multi-purpose foot
- Satin stitch foot
- Buttonhole foot
- Zipper foot
- 3 bobbins
- Felt
- Seam ripper
- Screwdriver
- Spool pin
- Large spool holder
- Needles
- Hard cover
In addition to these accessories, anyone who purchases the Janome Jem Platinum 760 can also buy any of these optional accessories:
- Soft cover
- Extension table
- The entire line of Janome presser feet
How to maintain the Janome Jem Platinum 760?
| 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 | No | Yes |
Janome Jem Platinum 760 Summary
Let’s face it. Good things don’t always come in small packages, especially when you are talking about sewing machines. The Janome Jem Platinum 760 weighs only 12 pounds, which I would gladly make the highlight of my review. Most sewing machines in this weight class are what I like to call throw aways.
They may be able to sew a good seam, but they are either so light you are afraid to use them for anything other than mending, or you give them to the little ones who want to learn to sew.
Until actually seeing the Janome Jem 760 in action, I hesitated to recommend a computerized sewing machine for use by children. This one, however, is a definite exception to my rule.
The Janome Jem Platinum 760 is easy enough to operate that I would feel comfortable allowing an elementary school child to take their first sewing lesson on it.
Anyone whose sewing skills are at the intermediate or advanced/expert levels will be pleased with the way the 760 operates. It has everything anyone needs to make clothing items, accessories and home décor accents. I do not recommending trying to sew really heavy fabrics like canvas or thick leather.
It is, after all, only three fourths the size of a regular sewing machine. It is, however, great for taking on vacation or to class. The hard cover makes this an excellent travel companion.
College students who like to sew would love having this little giant in the dorm. It can easily be stowed away in the tiniest of spaces yet sews like a full size machine.
The Janome Jem Platinum 760 is not the least expensive computerized sewing machine on the market. However, it is in my opinion, the most dependable portable computerized sewing machine available. It is sturdy and remarkably quiet with absolutely no vibration whatsoever.
We get what we pay for. It is certainly possible to get a portable computerized sewing machine for less, but after reviewing the Janome Jem Platinum 760, I believe this is by far the only choice for anyone who wants a lightweight computerized portable sewing machine.
Janome Jem Platinum 760 Review
Summary
The Janome Jem Platinum 760 is a high-end sewing and embroidery machine that offers a wide range of features. It has a large color LCD touchscreen, a built-in camera, and a variety of embroidery designs. The machine is also very easy to use, thanks to its intuitive controls. The large color LCD touchscreen makes it easy to preview embroidery designs and make edits on-screen. The touchscreen also makes it easy to navigate through the machine’s menus and settings. The built-in camera allows you to scan and digitize your own embroidery designs. This is a great way to add personal touches to your projects.
The Janome Jem Platinum 760 has 10MB of memory for storing designs. This means you can store a large number of designs on the machine, so you’ll always have your favorites at your fingertips. The built-in camera allows you to scan and digitize your own embroidery designs. This is a great way to add personal touches to your projects.
Overall, the Janome Jem Platinum 760 is a high-end sewing and embroidery machine with a wide range of features. It is easy to use and has a sturdy construction, making it a great option for experienced sewers and embroiderers. However, it is also expensive and large, so it may not be the best choice for everyone.
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Happy Stitching.
This is the most awesome, lightweight little machine…worth every penny. Great for classes. I love it. I
I’ve been using this little powerhouse of a machine a little less than a month. Main use is piecing quilt tops (I bought the 1/4 inch foot for it). I plan to take it on a lengthy vacation next spring rather than lug my super heavy mechanical Bernina. I am satisfied with the purchase, and, by the way, I relied somewhat on the review at this site before purchasing. I notice that the slide speed control could be better. I’d prefer a simple 1/2 speed option, I think, because there are times when I cannot seem to get the machine back to its 650 spm top speed.
I’m confused. Does this little machine perform well for free motion on art quilts? The list of fabrics marks an X for multiply layers. Also, what is the throat size?
Hello, Julia –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
The x indicates that this machine is not recommended for sewing multiple layers… especially on a continuous, prolonged basis. Larger sewing machines than the Jem Platinum are suited for the rigors of handling heavy fabrics and multiple layers. This does not mean that you cannot do it from time to time. But if you plan to sew lots of projects involving multiple layers and thick heavy fabrics, you would be better off with a different sewing machine.
Happy stitching.
I love my Jem Platinum & I’m sure it’s absolutely excellent if all you do is quilting. Although it’s also excellent for many aspects of utility sewing, I’ve had bad luck when sewing buttonholes. I’m not talking about sewing multiple buttonholes in thick fabrics: I’m talking (for example) about a simple buttonhole for a broadcloth blouse. Unless you aggressively trim the seams & ensure that the entire buttonhole is based on only 2 layers (plus thin interfacing) of light cloth, the automatic buttonhole feature hesitates badly at the least increase in thickness. Even a thin seam that adds only a tiny bump will often stop the buttonholer in its tracks & you are left with a mangled mess where your buttonhole should be.
If anyone knows of a trick to ensure reliable buttonholes with the Jem Platinum, I’d love to hear it.
I have one for sale wondering what I may ask for it
Did you sell it
Wondering if your machine sold or not? If not, is it new or used?
what setting do you use with 1/4″ foot to achieve 1/4 seam?
when i use the default setting the seam is more than 1/4″ so needle position needs to come further to right
Hi Jo,
A width setting of 3.0 has worked for me with the 1/4 inch foot, giving me a scant 1/4″ seam. Hope that helps.
Pam
What is the slide button on bottom of machine?
Can one use a Superior thread spool-size with this horizontal spool pin? If not, what do you suggest so that I can use these spools? Thank you, Mary
I LOVE this machine. I’ve had it since it come out 12 yrs.
It fell out of a cart and onto cement as I was leaving a retreat, I figured it was a goner. NO it was fixed at Janome dealer in Portage and works great again.
Great for taking to classes ,retreats, and Florida. I will always make sure it is a rolling case, no more accidents.