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Janome M7200 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Janome M7200 review was originally written in 2017, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Since Janome M7200 has been discontinued, we have added alternatives such as Janome 4120QDC, Elna Elnita ec60, and Janome 3160QDC.
On a visit to Sunshine Sewing and Quilting in Margate, Florida, I had an opportunity to review the Janome M7200. The M7200 was at the top of the new Janome M line of machines, the company’s newest line of affordably priced sewing machines specifically designed for beginners.
Janome M7200 Overview
The Janome M7200 is a computerized sewing machine that offers a wide range of features. It has 200 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 M7200 also has a built-in alphabet and 12 one-step buttonhole functions.
Janome M7200 is now discontinued. We recommend trying out alternatives that we have added to this post.
When I first saw it, my thought was that the Janome M7200 very much resembles the Janome DC 5100. Upon closer examination, however, I discovered that while some things appeared the same, there are very definite differences between these two sewing machines.
Unlike the DC 5100, the Janome M7200 a speed control lever, and function buttons start/stop; needle up/down; reverse stitch; mirror image; design stop; and thread tie off/cut. Both machines are equipped with an on-board needle threader and a colorful panel on the column with buttons which give the user immediate access to the most frequently used utility stitches, stitch selection buttons and controls for adjusting stitch length and width.
Other function buttons on the column include a stitch memory button; thread tie-off/cut; buttonhole selector; and mode. Above this panel of buttons is a small LCD screen which displays the stitch number and other critical data like stitch length and width settings, and an icon that lets the user know which presser foot is best to use for a selected stitch pattern.
The M7200 also has a removeable accessories case which gives the user access to a free arm and a lever to control the drop feed function on the back of the bed. There is also a large, well-lit workspace, a large needle plate with seam guides etched on it and an on-board stitch selection chart which can be attached to the machine head above the needle.
What are some alternatives for Janome M7200?
Like we have already mentioned in this review, the Janome M7200 has been discontinued. Here are some alternatives that we recommend instead.
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.
A flexible and easy-to-use computerized sewing machine, the Elna Elnita ec60 offers a number of functions for both beginner and experienced sewers. This machine can handle a variety of chores, from straightforward repairs to more challenging sewing tasks, thanks to its 60 built-in stitches, which include basic, decorative, and stretch stitches.
The Elna Elnita ec60's user-friendly LCD screen, which makes it simple to choose and modify stitches, stitch length, and stitch width, is one of its noteworthy characteristics. Additionally, the machine has an automatic needle threader that makes threading the needle simple and does not require hand threading.
This sewing machine's constant and accurate stitching is another advantage. Each stitch is even and accurate thanks to the machine's sophisticated features, which include a drop-in bobbin system that prevents jams, automated tension adjustment, and an adjustable speed control.
The Elna Elnita ec60 is light-weight and transportable, making it convenient to use for extended periods of time. The machine also includes a foot control, which makes it simple to manage the sewing machine's speed while allowing your hands to be free to control the cloth.
- Best purchase that lasts for a long time
- A small but strong structure
- Easy operation
- Highest level of value
- Upscale accessories
- More stitches may have been incorporated into the machine
The Janome 3160QDC is a fully functional, top-of-the-line machine that provides all of the benefits at an affordable price. It was created keeping a quilter's needs in mind.
The Superior Plus Feed System from the company Janome has optimized box feeding that makes it possible to feed any fabric steadily and consistently.
Six 1-step buttonholes are available among the 60 built-in stitches. This full-sized machine only weighs 12 pounds, which makes it convenient to transport to workshops and guild meetings.
Sewing is made simple with the time-saving features of this machine, like the memorized up/down needle, the single-handed needle threader, and the lock stitch button.
What are the features on Janome M7200?
- Horizontal rotary hook
- 200 built-in utility and decorative stitches
- 1 Alphanumeric font
- 12 one-step buttonholes
- Manual thread tension control
- Built-in, one-hand needle threader
- Snap-on presser feet
- 7-piece feed dog
- Free arm
- Function buttons:
- Drop feed
- Start/stop
- Locking stitch
- Automatic tie off/thread cutter
- Reverse stitch
- Needle up/down [default setting-down]
- Extra high presser foot lift
- Backlit LCD screen
- Easy navigation keys
Working on the Janome M7200
Following the easy, user friendly numerical threading guide on the Janome M7200 is literally as simple as one, two three. Helpful on-board guides make winding the drop-in bobbin and putting it into place equally uncomplicated.
After the machine is threaded, the next step is to determine which stitch to use. The reversible stitch selection chart located on top of the machine head is not only conveniently situated, it is designed in such a way that it is easy to understand and use. It is important to note here that the stitch selection guide is divided into three distinct modes:
Mode 1 – utility and basic decorative stitches;
Mode 2 – larger, more elaborate decorative stitches;
Mode 3 – block alphanumeric font
If you select a stitch number but do not first select the correct mode, you will not get the stitch you want. The mode is chosen by pressing the Mode button on the column until the light identifying the desired mode is lit next to the +/- button on the right.
After selecting the proper mode, the next step is to use the up and down arrows on the column in order to choose the desired stitch number within the mode grouping. Buttons with plus and minus signs on the column are used to adjust the stitch length and width.
The middle row of buttons are used to access most frequently utility stitches – straight; zigzag and buttonholes.
The buttons at the bottom are for setting the M7200 to automatically tie off and cut the thread at every stop; to store and clear memory and to select the mode.
During this review, I observed a quiet hum while the machine was running at both the middle and high-speed settings. Even though it was sitting on one of those plastic folding utility tables with nothing beneath it except an Olfa mat, there was absolutely no vibration whatsoever. Each of the decorative and utility stitches sampled were perfectly formed, balanced and secure.
Which fabrics work on the Janome M7200?
| 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) Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Upholstery | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber |
What accessories come with the Janome M7200?
Standard accessories:
- 8 Snap on presser feet
- 1/4″ Seam Foot
- Automatic Buttonhole Foot
- Blind Hem
- Even Feed Foot
- Overedge Foot
- Satin Stitch Foot
- Zig-Zag Foot
- Zipper Foot
- Spool pins (2 large; 2small)
- 4 Bobbins
- Needles
- Seam ripper/Buttonhole opener
- Lint brush
- Screwdriver
- Reversible stitch selection chart
- Owner’s manual
- Instructional DVD
- Hard cover
- Large extension table
Optional accessories:
- 3-Way cording foot
- Applique foot
- Beading foot set
- Binder foot
- Blind hem foot
- Bobbin holder for free motion quilting
- Border guide foot
- Button sewing foot
- Manual buttonhole foot
- Closed toe darning foot
- Concealed zipper foot
- Convertible even feed foot
- Convertible free-motion quilting foot set
- Open toe darning foot [high shank]
- Open toe darning foot [low shank]
- Ditch quilting foot
- Edge guide foot
- Free motion quilting foot [low shank]
- Fringing foot
- Gathering foot
- Hemmer feet set
- Horizontal spool holder
- Manual needle threader
- Open toe foot with quilting guide
- Open toe satin stitch foot
- Overedge foot
- Pintucking cord guide
- Pintucking foot
- Piping foot
- Ribbon / sequin foot
- Rolled hem foot
- Roller foot
- Rotary even foot
- Satin stitch foot [open toe]
- Sliding buttonhole foot
- Sliding guide foot
- Straight stitch foot
- Ultraglide foot
- Zipper foot [screw on]
- Straight stitch needle plate
- Spool stand
- 9 Piece scissor kit
- Ruffler
- Ribbon sewing guide
- Ready-to-quilt training panels by PatternJam
- Extra large foot controller
- Flower stitching attachment
- Buttonhole stabilizer plate
- Quilting attachment kit
- Quilting guide
How to maintain the Janome M7200?
| 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 |
Summary: Janome M7200 Review
Overall, I believe the Janome M7200 is an excellent machine for home sewers at all levels. I hesitate to recommend it for use by young children or beginners of any age who are intimidated by having too many choices or who may not be comfortable going through the extra step of changing from one mode to another when move from one stitch selection group to another.
While many young children are computer savvy and able to operate machines that are somewhat highly technical in nature, I don’t believe the M7200 is a good choice for children who are still at the elementary school level. Youngsters who are in middle school and higher are, in my opinion, more adaptable to following multiple steps in order to accomplish a specific task.
I am inclined to have the same reservation when considering use of the Janome M7200 by anyone who is challenged with following more the series of steps required to successfully move through the stitch selection process. This includes adults who may be intimidated by technology.
One very good feature the of design built into the positioning of stitch selection chart on the Janome M7200 is that it can be folded behind the machine when it is not in use. This feature is particularly useful for storing or moving the machine because it is not necessary to remove the chart in order to put the hard cover over it. With the chart permanently in place, the likelihood of its getting lost or damaged is practically eliminated altogether.
I observed that the drop feed control lever is behind the free arm. While this is an ongoing personal peeve for me, I must concede that this one is a bit easier to access because of the overall design of the M7200. The detachable accessories case is mounted on the front of the free arm only, leaving the back completely accessible at all times.
I continue to campaign for all drop feed controls be located on the column or someplace on front of all sewing machines. However, I have also come to recognize that placing the drop feed control on back of the machine is more economical, and therefore, more desirable for keeping costs lower on more affordable sewing machines. In the long run, this concession is probably a fair compromise when compared with the overall quality of a sewing machine at any price point.
While all of the stitches sampled during this review were flawless, the owner’s manual suggests that depending upon fabric type, thickness and number of fabric layers, the stretch stitch may not come out perfectly. The manual offers a solution to the problem by using the screwdriver tool to adjust a screw behind the accessories storage compartment.
This sent up a red flag for me… albeit not because of anything I observed during this specific review. I cannot, however, help but wonder if this unusual adjustment of the feed balance dial may be required for one stitch, is it possible that the same type of adjustment may be required for other stitches a well?
I have repeatedly said that almost every brand new sewing machine works perfectly right out of the box. It is only after use in a real home situation over several months and sometimes even years before the true reliability and dependability of a sewing machine can be determined.
My experience has been that the manual tension dial is normally all that is needed to adjust the appearance and formation of any sewing machine stitch. The need for this additional adjustment feature makes me wonder if perhaps it will be necessary to make adjustments when using other stitch options as well. As they say… only time will tell.
With this in mind, I am comfortable recommending the purchase of the Janome M7200 with the aviso ‘buyer be aware’. When considering how many machines are sold with defects that are known to the manufacturer and deliberately withheld, I am inclined to trust that the folks at Janome are doing their very best to not only cover their bases, but to honestly and candidly inform consumers of possible unanticipated performance problems in advance.
Given the trend to try to cover up and even deny product defects, even when loss of life is a very real prospect, I commend Janome for putting this in the owner’s manual, making the consumer aware of this possibility at the very beginning. The challenge is that some people tend to take the sewing machine out of the carton and begin working on it immediately without taking the time to read the manual in its entirety.
According to information available through the Janome website, the Janome M7200 has an MSRP of $1199. Anyone who might be interested in purchasing this light weight, solidly built sewing and quilting machine should contact the authorized Janome dealer in their area and ask for a demonstration. If this is truly the machine for you, I have very little doubt you will be happy with your selection after you get it home.
Janome M7200 Review
Summary
The Janome M7200 is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It has 200 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 M7200 also has a built-in alphabet and 12 one-step buttonhole functions.
Overall, the reviewer of the Janome M7200 found it to be a good machine for sewers and quilters of all levels. They recommended it for those who are looking for a machine with a lot of features and that is easy to use.
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Happy Stitching.
Hi! My name is Larissa, I’m a little bit confused by the type os fabrics this machine can sew. It can sew Fur but not a Cotton fabric? And not can sew multiple layers?
Thanks! I love your reviews!
I liked the magazine. I’m about to receive the DM 7200, I think it’s version 2 of this model. Missing information on the lubrication points of the machine and the type of lubricant to be used.
Thank you very much
What is the best foot to use to do freehand stitching around letters or numbers?