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Janome M7050 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Janome M7050 review was originally written in 2017, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Janome M7050 has been discontinued. We have added similar alternatives such as Singer Promise 1409, EverSewn Sparrow 15, and Elnita EM16.
While visiting Sunshine Sewing and Quilting in Margate, Florida, I had an opportunity to review the new Janome M7050, a lightweight, affordable fully computerized sewing and quilting machine.
Janome M7050 Overview
Janome’s M7050 is a popular mechanical sewing machine that will take care of a beginner’s needs yet will require time to outgrow. It has more features than the standard household sewing machine. This includes 50 onboard stitches, three one-step buttonholes, a locking stitch button, an automatic thread cutter, and an easy reverse button. The thread tension has to be adjusted manually, and the needle positions are a default setting. It also comes with a free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves. User reviews indicate that several users have been able to work with it for even over a decade which indicates that this device is quite sturdy and reliable.
Janome M7050 has been discontinued. We recommend trying out alternatives that we have added to this post.
The Janome M7050 is identical to the M7200 with two very distinct differences. First of all, the most obvious difference is the color of the column. The column on the M7200 is purple while it is bright green on the M7050.
The most significant difference, however, is not the color, but the number of stitches available on these two machines. The M 7050 offers only 50 decorative and utility stitches while the M7200 comes with 200 onboard stitch options. In addition, the M7200 can store stitch settings and combinations in its memory and clear them when they are no longer needed by the user.
Each of these machines is equipped with an LCD backlit window that displays stitch number, stitches length and width settings, and an image of the correct presser foot to use for the selected stitch. On the column, there are three rows of buttons that are used to make stitch selections; automatically tie off and cut the thread with each stop, and adjust stitch length and width.
There is also a series of function buttons above the needle and on the machine head: start/stop; reverse stitch; stitch design stop; mirror stitch; thread tie off and cut; and a speed control slider. The Janome M7200 and M7050 also have dials at the top left corner to adjust the presser foot height and a manual tension control dial above the needle.
In comparison, the M7200 has three additional buttons on its column – memory store; clear memory; and stitch mode selection. There is also a series of three tiny lights to indicate the mode selection on the column of the M7200 that is not found on the M7050.
Beneath the needle is a large needle plate with seam guides and a clear cover for the drop-in bobbin and an onboard accessory case. The drop feed control is located behind the arm. Both the M7050 and the M7200 come with an extension table that can be attached to the machine when the accessory case is removed.
It should be noted here that the drop feed control is accessible while the accessory case is attached, but not so easy when the extension table is in place.
There is also an on-board stitch selection guide which can be folded behind the machine head when it is necessary to store or transport the machine in the standard hardcover. This is a major advantage because the risk of losing the stitch selection guide is greatly reduced since it is not necessary to remove it when it is not in use.
What are some alternatives for Janome M7050?
Like we have already mentioned in this review, the Janome M7050 is no longer in production. Here are some alternatives that we recommend.
The Singer Promise 1409 is an entry-level Singer sewing machine. The machine is very light, which means it is easy to transport. The 1409 comes with a good range of accessories, including a darning plate, which allows for freemotion sewing. It comes with 9 stitch options (6 utility, 2 decorative and 1 four step buttonhole). It has a free arm, adjustable stitch width and length and oversized reverse stitch button.
The EverSewn Sparrow 15 is a reliable choice for beginners and creative minds seeking an efficient yet budget-friendly sewing companion. Boasting a modern blue and white design, this electric machine offers 32 stitch patterns, including 15 utility stitches and 12 decorative stitches. Ideal for kids and those starting their sewing journey, it features user-friendly functions like a manual thread cutter and a 5 mm maximum stitch width. The Sparrow 15's robust build, automatic needle threader, and included accessories make it a practical solution for entry-level sewing enthusiasts. Aimed at beginners and kids, the Sparrow 15 offers an accessible entry into the world of sewing with a modern design and functional features.
The Elnita EM16 Mechanical Sewing Machine is a reliable and durable machine that is perfect for beginners and those who prefer a simpler approach to sewing. With 16 built-in stitches, including straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches, this machine offers a range of options for basic sewing tasks. The EM16 also features a front-loading bobbin system, making it easy to load and replace the bobbin, and a free arm for sewing cuffs, collars, and other hard-to-reach areas. The machine is lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport and store. The EM16 also comes with a range of accessories, including a hard cover, four presser feet, and a seam ripper, to help you tackle any sewing project with ease. With its simple and straightforward design, the Elnita EM16 Mechanical Sewing Machine is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use machine for basic sewing tasks.
What are the features on Janome M7050?
- Horizontal rotary hook
- 50 built-in stitches
- 3 one-step buttonholes
- Manual tension control
- Onboard needle threader
- Needle up/down [down as default setting]
- 7-piece feed dog
- Free arm
- Drop feed
- Start/stop button
- Locking stitch button
- Automatic thread cutter
- Easy reverse button
- Extra high presser foot lift
- Backlit LCD screen
Working on the Janome M7050
The numerical threading guide is possibly the most user-friendly threading guide available on any sewing machine. The process for winding the bobbin and securely putting it in place is quite easy providing the user follows the onboard guides.
After the Janome M7050 is threaded and the bobbin is securely in place, the only thing left to do is to select the desired stitch and sew. Unlike the M7200, it is not necessary to go through the steps of identifying and selecting a model. With only 50 utility and decorative stitches from which to choose, the M7050 is even less complicated and more user-friendly than its counterpart with 200 stitch options.
The good news is even though the Janome M7050 has fewer standard features, it is just as sturdy and solidly built as the M7200. During this review, I tested several of the available stitches and was pleased to discover that each stitch was perfectly formed, even, and secure. There is almost no noise at all when sewing even at the highest speed setting and no vibration whatsoever.
Which fabrics can go on the Janome M7050?
| 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) Leather/suede Fur | Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Upholstery |
What accessories come with the Janome M7050?
Standard accessories:
- 8 Snap-on presser feet
- ¼ ” Seam Foot
- Automatic buttonhole foot
- Blind hem
- Even feed foot
- Overedge foot
- Satin stitch foot
- Zigzag foot
- Zipper foot
Optional accessories:
- 3-Way cording foot
- Applique foot
- Beading foot set
- Binder’s foot
- Blind hem foot
- Closed-toe darning foot
- Concealed zipper foot
- Convertible even feed foot
- Convertible free motion quilting foot set
- Open toe darning foot
- Ditch quilting foot
- Edge guide foot
- Free motion quilting foot low shank
- Fringing foot
- Gathering foot
- Open-toe satin stitch foot
- Overedge foot
- Pintucking foot
- Piping foot
- Rolled hem foot
- Roller foot
- Rotary even foot
- Satin stitch foot open toe
- Sliding buttonhole foot
- Open toe darning foot [low shank]
- Ultraglide foot
- Zipper foot [screw on]
- Straight stitch foot
- Border guide foot
- Button sewing foot
- Buttonhole foot
- Ribbon / sequin foot
- Bobbin holder for free motion quilting
- Bobbins
- Buttonhole stabilizer plate
- Circular sewing attachment
- Extra large foot controller
- Flower stitching attachment
- Free motion quilting low shank
- Hemmer’s feet set
- Horizontal spool holder
- Needle threader
- Needles
- Open toe with quilting guide
- Pincushion
- Pintucking cord guide
- Quilting attachment kit
- Quilting guide
- Ready-to-quilt training panels by Patternjam
- Ribbon sewing guide
- Ruffler
- 9 Piece scissor kit
- Seam ripper
- Sliding guide foot – 7mm models
- Spool stand
- Straight stitch needle plate
How to maintain the Janome M7050?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Lubricate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
Summary: Janome M7050 Review
While the Janome M7050 is very much like the M7200, the differences are significant enough that I am comfortable recommending the use of this machine by children in elementary school. I withheld that recommendation for the M7200 because of the mere step of identifying and choosing the mode before making a stitch selection.
This one additional step is, in my opinion, enough to frustrate a younger child or even an adult who may be intimidated by having to remember to follow a series of unnecessary steps to accomplish a basic task.
Like the Janome M7200, the M7050 is quite affordable. In fact, with an MSRP of just $799, I believe it is the least costly brand new sewing and quilting machine I have seen for sale by an authorized Janome dealer. The fact that it is so well built is an advantage.
Although I am not enthusiastic about the placement of the drop feed control, I am willing to concede that placing it behind the workspace is a smart move, all things considered. Since the accessory case is mounted on the front only, the drop feed control is accessible by reaching behind the needle. However, if the extension table is in use, getting to this lever is far more challenging.
The Janome M7050 is an ideal choice for almost any sewing student who is at least six or seven years of age. A child as young as six could easily learn to master the operation of the M7050 with the close supervision of an adult. An older student would be very comfortable learning the basics of sewing machine operation on this uncomplicated, user-friendly machine.
Weighing in at just a little over 14 pounds, the Janome M7050 is perfect for taking to sewing class. It can be an excellent travel companion for anyone who likes to take their hobby on vacation or for an extended stay with friends or family.
While the Janome M7200 offers more in terms of standard features and stitch options, there is a definite place for the M7050. Depending upon the user’s specific sewing interest and their prospects for future sewing projects, the M7050 could be a perfect fit for the advanced home sewer that does not require a lot in terms of stitch options and a stitch memory.
In reality, the Janome M7050 is nothing more than a basic sewing machine… one that gets the job done and does it well. Not only is it a sturdy, well-built workhorse, but it is also whispered quiet and runs smoothly, even when sewing at the highest speed setting.
One thing I noticed in the owner’s manual of both the M7200 and the M7050 is a section that helps the user correct ‘deformed’ stitches. The user is advised to use the screwdriver to adjust a screw that is situated beneath the accessory case. While I did not encounter any problems with stitch formation during this review, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the manufacturer is proactive about problems that may arise once the machine is in a real home sewing situation.
Bearing in mind that almost all sewing machines work perfectly when they are first put into use in any home setting, I think the fact that the folks at Janome are taking steps upfront to help users if and when problems arise is a good thing. Far too often, manufacturers put products on the market fully aware of potential performance flaws without attempting to take any steps to help the end-user in the event a problem occurs.
If you are in the market for a dependable sewing machine that doesn’t have a lot of non-essential bells and whistles for yourself or to give to someone as a gift, the Janome M7050 might be the solution you are looking for. Before making a final decision as to which machine to purchase, you owe it to yourself to set aside an afternoon to visit an authorized Janome dealer in your area.
Ask for a demonstration of both the Janome M7200 and the M7050. Compare the two machines side by side and see for yourself if one of these lightweight, affordable machines fits your personal sewing needs.
Janome M7050 Review
Summary
The Janome M7050 is a sewing machine that offers a wide range of features, making it a good option for both beginners and experienced sewers. It has 180 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, and a free arm. The Janome M7050 is also a good value for the price, making it a great option for those who are looking for a machine with a lot of features without breaking the bank.
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Happy Stitching.
Hello! Thank you so much for your review. Very helpful. I have been trying to find the max stitch speed for this machine and haven’t been able to locate that piece of information. Do you by any chance know? Thank you.
I wish you had written a review for the AMH M100. I can not find one anywhere. I purchased it for my mother but I am unsure if it is a good machine or even a good buy. I wanted to get her a nice machine as we have been budget conscious all our lives. She just retired at 84 years young. She has been sewing for 78 years. I am not sure if I should return the machine, she has had since Christmas and has not opened it yet, its now January 2nd, I have until January 4th to return it for a full refund. So confused.
Thank you for your review! I went to the dealer to try the HD3000 and wound up trying out the 7050 as well. I thought the quality was great on both! Can anyone comment on the sturdiness of the 7050? I like the idea of a heavy duty machine that will last, but I really don’t sew heavy fabrics very often. I’m usually sewing knits or slippery fabrics.
Thanks for any advice!
I am a little confused by your blue x’s and red check marks. what do they mean? specifically, I am trying to figure out if this machine does well with vinyls and thicker material.
What is the weight of a Janome M7050?
Wow, What a great explanation!
Janome’s products are really good. I inspired to buy one.
First, thank you for this well-rounded review. Frankly, I must say it is confusing to me seeing all the machines have such low deviation in scoring. What’s the point then? The reference value of the numbers is diluted to non-existence as you keep doing so.