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Janome Skyline S7 Review (2023 update)
Note from Editor: This Janome Skyline S7 review was originally written in 2016. We have revised and updated this post in 2023 and added more products in the Janome Skyline series (S3 , S5 , S9) that would interest you as the Janome Skyline S9 is not easily available everywhere. Check out the Janome MC 6650 and the Singer 9960.
After several months of hearing and reading about the Janome Skyline S7, I finally had an opportunity to review it at Sunshine Sewing and Quilting in Margate, FL. This computerized sewing and quilting machine has been highly praised, and is very popular. So popular, in fact, that when I was forced to postpone reviewing this machine due to illness, they had sold out by the time I had recovered. After that, I had to wait until a new shipment was delivered. On the day I did this review, there were only a few left in stock.
Janome Skyline S7 – Overview
The Skyline 7 is an old version of the Skyline model and is currently hard to find on the market. It is similar to Skyline 5 (detailed below). The Skyline 7 however, has a superior needle threader, a better stitch selection process, and a few other essential upgrades. The device is an efficient workhorse that runs for long hours without issues. The quality of delivery is nice and smooth. Like all Skyline devices, the S7 too is loaded with pretty much every feature you would need and expect at this price range. It has 11 buttonholes, which is quite a benchmark.
At A Glance
In all honesty, the Janome Skyline S7 looks almost exactly like the Skyline S5 to me. When I asked Sunshine owner and manager Fay Nicoll to explain the difference between the two machines, she quickly pointed out that that the major external difference between these two machines is the advanced needle threader. On the S5, the needle threader moves the thread from left to right. The thread moves to the front of the needle on the S7.
An online comparison revealed that the S5 is equipped with the Superior Feed System Plus (SFS) while the S7 has the more up to date AccuFeed. Finally, the Janome website revealed that the stitch selection process is different. The S7 has a touch screen stitch selection process. Selecting stitches on the S5 is accomplished with direct selection buttons. The final difference between the S5 and the S7 is the number of stitch options.
The S5 has 170 decorative and utility stitches including 10 one step buttonholes. The S7 brings with it 11 buttonholes and a total of 236 stitch options.
The Janome Skyline S7 has an on board stitch selection guide inside the top lid. When it’s closed, the machine has the appearance of a sleek opened, it has the appearance of a sleek 21st Century machine with practically a minimum of visible controls or switches: start/stop; presser foot up/down; thread tie-off/cut; design stop and a three level speed control slider.
The USB port is on the right column with the balance wheel and power switch. Opening the lid not only reveals the stitch selection guide but also the thread and bobbin winder along with detailed threading and bobbin winding guides.
One thing that I noticed that was of particular interest to me was the placement of the drop feed control lever. Rather than hiding it, the folks at Janome seem to have heard my complaints and placed the drop feed control lever on the right side of the machine, beneath the balance wheel. Beneath the machine head are bright LED lights and a large workspace that features an oversized needle plate that is easily removed with just one hand. Two needle plates come with the S7, one for straight stitches and the other for working with zigzag and decorative stitches. Rather than the numerical keypad that is found on the S5, the S7 has a large touchpad which is used to select stitches, lock the machine, access the stitch memory and all of the other on board functions that make working on this machine user friendly.
Janome Skyline S7: Features
- 240 Onboard decorative and utility stitches
- 11 One-step buttonholes
- 7 Alphanumeric fonts
- Top loading 9mm full rotary hook
- USB port
- Stitch composer stitch creation program
- Automatic thread tension
- On board advanced needle threader
- Easy set bobbin
- Bobbin winding plate with thread cutter
- Function buttons:
- Needle Up/Down
- Presser Foot Lift
- Thread Cutter
- AcuFeed™ flex layered fabric feeding system
- Variable zig-zag for free motion quilting
- One-step needle plate conversion
- Free arm
- On board accessory storage
Working on the Janome Skyline S7
Threading the Janome Skyline S7 and winding the bobbin are completely routine. If you are accustomed to threading any other modern day sewing machine and winding its bobbin, you will have no difficulty in preparing this machine to get down to doing some serious sewing and/or quilting.
The addition of a safety lock is one of the most functional safety features this machine has to offer. By locking the Janome Skyline S7, users are able to thread the needle, change the needle plate and perform other non-sewing tasks without having to worry about injury caused by inadvertently touching he start/stop button in the process.
After the Janome is threaded and the bobbin in place, the next step is to select a stitch option from one of the six on board decorative and utility stitch menus. The needle up/down position and thread tie-off/cut functions can be preprogrammed to increase the efficiency and decrease the time spent performing routine sewing machine tasks. For this review, I sampled several stitch options and discovered that the quality of the stitches produced by the Janome Skyline S7 is superior to many other sewing and quilting machines in its class.
Fabrics
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Upholstery Denim Leather/suede Fur Plastic/Rubber | Canvas/Twill Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
Other Skyline Alternatives
The Janome Skyline S3, Skyline S5 and the Skyline S9 are great Skyline alternatives to S7 and detailed below:
The Skyline S3 is the first of the Skyline series and also the most affordable in the range. Considering how old it is, it is still a power-packed device well known for its seamless operability. The Skyline collection is mid-range and made for daily tasks, home decoration, quilting, bags, patchwork, handicrafts, and more. The S3 is strong enough to handle denim, leather, and fabrics with multiple layers, and it can stitch with great accuracy. The Janome Skyline is a stylish machine with simple lines and a strong, bright white frame that weighs about 30 pounds. It also has a large throat. It is still a small machine, which makes it ideal for workstations with limited space. The LED screen is forward-facing, has a straightforward layout, and is lit brightly enough that you won't have to strain your eyes to see it, even in the dead of night. Also, carefully placed LEDs make sure that your machine is well lit, so you can see even the smallest stitches clearly.
All in all, a sewing machine with a lovely and clever design.
The Janome Skyline S5 is a top-tier model that combines comfort and convenience, much like the Skyline S3. Janome made this model to improve sewing technology, and it does a great job of doing so with a lot of cutting-edge features. This model, which is feature-rich, also has a number of standard attachments that make stitching even simpler. The screen is easy to see and, with a highly sensitive touch, the illuminated screen makes rapid selections possible.
An auto-declutch bobbin winder is also mounted on top of the machine. A cutter that enables you to swiftly cut the bobbin thread is also included. There are many useful buttons to the left of the device, which will determine how you use the S5.
The Skyline S9 is the first machine in its line that can both sew and embroider. This great machine has Wi-Fi, which makes it easy to send embroidery patterns from an iPad or PC straight to the machine. With a maximum embroidery size of 6.7" x 7.9" and stitching rates of 1000 SPM, the Skyline S9 has a wide range of powerful features that make sure all projects look good and are easy to finish. The Skyline S9's LCD color touch screen makes it simple to navigate through these fantastic features.
Accessories
Standard Accessories
- 9 Snap on presser feet
- ¼” Seam Foot
- Zigzag foot
- AcuFeed Flex™ dual feed holder with AD foot
- Automatic buttonhole foot
- Blind hem foot
- Darning foot
- Overedge foot
- Rolled hem foot
- Satin stitch foot
- Seam ripper
- Extra large foot controller
- Spool pins
- Screwdrivers
- Owner’s manual
- Extra needles
- Spool caps
Optional accessories
- Snap on presser feet
- 3-way cording foot
- AcuFeed Flex™ ¼” seam foot (twin)
- AcuFeed Flex™ holder and foot (single)
- AcuFeed open toe foot
- AcuFeed straight stitch foot
- AcuFeed zipper foot (single)
- Applique foot
- Beading foot narrow
- Beading foot wide
- Binder foot
- Blue tip needles
- Bobbin (specialized)
- Bobbin holder for free motion quilting
- Bobbins
- Bobbins (plastic)
- Border guide foot
- Button sewing foot
- Buttonhole foot
- Buttonhole stabilizer plate
- Circular sewing attachment
- Clear view 1/4 seam foot 9mm
- Clear view quilting foot and guide set
- Concealed zipper foot
- Crafting and home decor accessory kit
- Ditch quilting foot
- Ditch quilting foot for AcuFeed Flex™
- Edge guide foot
- Fashion and finishing kit
- Free motion couching foot
- Free motion quilting closed toe foot
- Free motion quilting holder
- Free motion quilting open toe foot
- Free motion quilting zig-zag foot
- Gathering foot
- Ultraglide foot
- 9 Piece scissor kit
- Horizontal spool holder
- Long quilting guide bar set
- Needle set
- Needle threader
- Needles
- Optic magnifier
- Pink and white pincushion
- Purple tip needle
- Quilt binder set
- Quilting accessory kit
- Red tip needle
- Remote thread cutter switch
- Ruffler
- Skyline accessory case
- Sliding guide foot 9mm
- Spool stand (2 threads)
- Ultraglide needle plate and foot set
- Universal sewing table
Maintenance tips for the Janome Skyline S7
| 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 |
Non Skyline alternatives to Skyline S9
As the Skyline S9 is no longer available, we recommend the Janome MC 6650 which is a great sewing and quilting machine and the Singer 9960.
Janome Memory Craft 6650 Sewing and Quilting Machine takes the seventh position in the category of the best eight quilting machines. It’s considered a powerhouse since the instrument is packed with versatility and precision, becoming the top quilter and sewer choice. The machine attracts you with its spacious 10’’ throat space, making it perfect for managing bulky quilt projects. After that, you will see that the device carries a robust body with 170 built-in stitches, a superior needle threader for you to resume intricate sewing easily, and includes alphabets to ensure that you are doing it correctly. This specific quilting machine offers you speedy stitching of up to 1000 stitches per minute, promising you an efficient workflow. At the same time, the LCD screen allows easier navigation, simplifying usability.
Versatility, premium features, and precision define the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960. The sewing machine scores full marks in terms of 600 built-in stitches, which comprise stretch, decorative, and quilting options to pamper your inner sewer. Then, the device comes ahead with a needle threader and automatic thread cutter to save you time. You will even come across a speed control slider designed for both professionals and beginners. The machine also startles you with 13 fully automatic buttonholes and a wide array of presser feet to boost the value so you can sew diverse projects.
Summary: Janome Skyline S7
To sum it all up, I find the Janome Skyline S7 to be a superior sewing and quilting machine. The machine is extremely quiet. I didn’t notice any vibration until the speed setting was set at its highest level, and even then, the amount of vibration was minimal.
This could have been caused by the fact that it was not set up on a sewing table, but on a folding worktable instead. My guess is that if this machine were mounted on a more stable surface, especially a table or desk designed to support a sewing machine, there would be no vibration whatsoever. The Janome Skyline S7 is an excellent choice for someone who is learning how to sew. I hesitate, however, to recommend it for use by a child younger than 10 or 12 years of age. It isn’t the least bit complicated, but it could be a bit intimidating for a young child.
I believe an older child, teenager or adult would be quite comfortable learning the art of sewing on this very sturdy sewing machine. An experienced home sewer or someone who has taken a break from sewing for a few years and returning to the sewing machine would have no problem adjusting to the features found on the Janome Skyline S7 that may not have been available on machines they operated in the past.
The workspace is extra-large, making it possible to quite handle on small to medium size quilting projects with ease. The free arm and on board accessory storage are merely added advantages. When compared with the Janome Skyline S5, the S7 is a comparable machine, offering a few additional stitch options and a little more convenience. While the advanced needle threader is a significant difference between the two machines, I feel that the biggest difference is the stitch selection process.
Some people prefer to dial up a stitch on a numerical keypad while others are more comfortable with a touchscreen. In my opinion, the decision between purchasing the S5 or the S7 rests largely with that one consideration. Before making a decision to purchase the S5 or the S7, I recommend that you take the time to visit an authorized Janome dealer in your area and try them both for yourself. Ask for a demonstration and make your own comparison. I have no doubt that you will be happy with either one.
The Janome Skyline S7 is definitely a well-built, reliable sewing and quilting machine. You cannot imagine my surprise when I learned that Janome has already released the Skyline S9. My first response was to wonder whether or not folks at Janome were losing it until I discovered that it is a step above the S7. The S9 is a combination sewing, quilting and embroidery machine that has all the features of the S7, but comes with additional utility and decorative stitch options along with three embroidery hoops
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.
Janome Skyline S7 Review
Summary
The much talked about Janome Skyline S7 is everything it has been reported to be. Not only is it solidly built and user friendly, the stitch quality is excellent… reminiscent of the stitches produced by a far more costly sewing and quilting machine. This machine is so good, in fact, that I am learning that dealers are having a hard time keeping it in stock. If you are in the market for a new sewing and quilting machine with a large workspace, make sure you visit your local Janome dealer to check out this one before making a final decision.
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 have owned and used this machine for six months. It is everything Vernelle says and more. Excellent machine.
BTW, thank you for this website. I both enjoy reading your reviews, and use them to evaluate purchases.
I love this machine! The S7 brings my sewing experience to a whole new level (traded in my Elna 6005, a real bear.) Beautiful stitches. Runs smoothly and quietly when quilting. I use the touch button to operate the machine since I cannot sit down to sew (back problems.)
Rebecca,
Do you still use your Janome Skyline S7? How do you like it?
I am looking at replacing a smaller older Brother. Any suggestions. Thank you, Patty
What can you tell me about Janome, how does it compare with other machines? Price wise and everything about the machine. Are they easy to figure out?
As a Janome Skyline 7 owner I have a few issues….the needle threader works 40% of the time and even with single stitch plate on it eats the fabric when feeding in triangle pieces, this does not happen on my Bernina machines. Other than these issues I like it.
hello vernelle
have owned a janome skyline s 7
for nearly 3 yrs….but only used it for about 6 months
since have had 2 phaff machines…still not happy
so switched to what was my dream machine…bernina 770QE
biggest financial mistake of my sewing life
within 2 weeks of using it so much went wrong
need to travel a long distance for repair
in the meantime got out my skyline s7
working like a charm…so pleased…dont know why was previously
disappointed!!!!do not even feel like getting the bernina repaired
but the machine cost requires me to do it
cannot sell it off fast enough
now this skyline review is the best have been able to find
wish could have seen it before purchase…but thankful found it now…thank you so much…
pauline chapman …from canada
Really appreciate the thoroughness of your review. I am purchasing this machine from my friend so I am looking forward to sewing on it soon!
Thank you for your honest opinion.
I am buying the S7 but still was not sure.
Thank you