Partner disclosure: SewingInsight.com is a participant in the Ebay Partner Network and Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We earn a small advertising fees by linking to products on Ebay and Amazon. This does not increase the price for you as a reader but you will support our small business.
Janome Skyline S9 Review (2023 update)
Editor’s note: This 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 and S5) that would interest you as the Janome Skyline S9 is not easily available everywhere. Check out the Janome MC 6650 and the Singer 9960.
The Janome Skyline S9 is the third machine in the Janome Skyline S series that I have had the pleasure of reviewing. The first was the S5, which I reviewed late in 2014. In the late summer of 2016, I reviewed the Skyline S7 at Sunshine Sewing and Quilting in Margate, Florida — the same place where I reviewed the Skyline S5.
Not long after reviewing that machine, I learned of the existence of the S9. At first, I thought the S9 was a similar machine, and I could not for the life of me understand why Janome would put out another one so soon.
However, when I visited Sunshine to review this one, I was pleased to discover that, while there are lots of similarities, it is quite different. The Janome Skyline S9 is a combination sewing, quilting, and embroidery machine, while the S7 is limited to sewing and quilting only.
Janome Skyline S9 Review
Summary
The Janome Skyline S9 is the newest addition to the popular line of Janome Skyline sewing machines. Many Janome dealers are discovering that it is difficult keeping the S7. I have no doubt that they will experience the same with the S9 – the first sewing, quilting and embroidery machine in this line. The S9 is whisper quiet, solidly built and so user-friendly that I believe it will be a good choice for people who are sewing for the very first time. Although it is not a machine that I recommend for use by children, it is an excellent option for the student who is in their teens or older.
Janome Skyline S9 – Overview
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.
- 170 stitch options
- Easy buttonhole creation
- Backlit digital screen
- Remembers needle position and stitch type
- Non-automatic threading
At A Glance
The Janome Skyline S9 looks very much like the S7, but upon closer inspection, I realized that the S9 has a slightly larger footprint. It also has Janome’s patented embroidery unit, which is permanently attached and swings out when the machine is used for embroidery. There are also function buttons: start/stop; presser foot up/down; design stop; vertical mirror image; and thread tie-off/cut, along with a variable speed control slider.
There is a free arm and a drop feed control lever on the right side of the machine, near the power switch. The on-board accessory case has a ruler on the front along with a slot for inserting the knee lift. Beneath the lid is a stitch selection guide, and on the front of the column is a large LCD touch screen. Under the needle is a bright LED light, a needle threader, a see-through bobbin cover, and a needle plate with easy-to-see seam guides.
Skyline S9 Features
- 300 On board utility/decorative stitches
- 11 one step buttonholes
- 250 Embroidery designs
- 40 Exclusive Anna Maria Horner designs
- 20 Monogramming fonts
- Free arm embroidery
- Design transfer via Wi-Fi, USB flash drive or direct PC connection
- On-screen editing
- Programmable jump thread trimming
- Adjustable speed while embroidering
- Flexible stitch traveling: 1, 10, 100 and 500 stitches
- Adjustable hoop position
- Cutwork enabled
- Embroidery couching
- Drop in rotary hook bobbin
- Automatic tension control
- Superior needle threader
- AcuFeed™ Flex Layered Fabric Feeding System
- Stitch tapering
- Variable zigzag
- AcuGuide automatic cloth guide
- Free arm
- Drop feed
- Function control buttons
- Start/stop button
- Locking stitch button
- Automatic thread cutter
- Reverse/lock stitch button
- Presser foot up/down
- Variable speed control slider
- Programmable needle up/down
- Memory function
- Twin needle guard
- Last stitch recall
- Knee lift
- Auto declutch bobbin winder
- Extra high presser foot lift
- Full color LCD touchscreen
- Automatic presser foot pressure adjustment
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- 91 Needle positions
- On board accessory storage
Working on the Janome Skyline S9
The Janome Skyline S9 is identical to the S7 when it comes to threading the machine, winding the bobbin and setting it in place. After that, however, the differences become to come into play.
If you choose to use the embroidery function, it is first necessary to go into the menu and select the embroidery function then flip a switch on the back of the machine to engage the arm embroidery unit. After selecting one of the on board embroidery designs or a design of your own from your computer or flash drive, select the hoop which would best suit our purposes and simply place it on the extension arm and lock it into place.
For this review, I sampled a four-thread on board design. This machine is so quiet that I barely heard it at all while my design was flawlessly produced.
Even when set to the highest speed setting—1000 stitches per minute—the Janome Skyline S9 was just as quiet when sewing. Although I had a good sense and feeling that this was a very well-built machine while it was operating in the embroidery mode, I was able to really experience its solid construction during the actual hands-on part of the review while working in the sewing mode. Even on a folding table and while sewing at the highest possible speed, there was absolutely no vibration. In addition, each stitch came out with precise perfection. For some reason, I started out working with yellow thread, but on the light colored fabric I chose for the review, I was concerned that the photographs would not adequately show the quality of the stitches. Changing the upper thread took mere seconds. Anyone who has limited time to spend in the sewing room could certainly appreciate that!
Fabrics that work and don’t with Skyline S9
| Fabrics that works | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool | Fur |
| Fine fabrics/ silk-satin-taffeta | Reptile skin |
| Knits | Canvas / Twill |
| Synthetics fabrics / blends-rayon-polyester | Plastic / Rubber |
| Denim | |
| Upholstery | |
| Leather / Suede | |
| Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
Other Skyline alternatives
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.
Skyline S9 Accessories
- 19 Snap on presser feet
- ¼” Seam Foot (single)
- AcuFeed Flex™ ¼” seam foot (twin)
- AcuFeed Flex™ dual feed holder with ad foot
- AcuFeed Flex™ holder and foot (single)
- AcuFeed single zipper foot
- Automatic buttonhole foot with stabilizer plate
- Blind hem foot
- Button sewing foot
- Darning foot
- Embroidery couching foot
- Free motion quilting closed toe foot
- Free motion quilting open toe foot
- free motion quilting zig-zag foot
- Open toe satin stitch foot
- Overedge foot
- Rolled hem foot
- Satin stitch foot
- Zigzag foot
- Zipper foot
- Embroidery hoops (3)
- 100mm x 40mm
- 170mm x 200mm
- 140mm x 140mm
- Straight stitch needle plate
- Quilting guide bar
- Dust cover
- Extra needles
- 5 Bobbins
- Spool pin
- Spool caps
- Screwdriver
- Lint brush
- Seam ripper
Maintenance
| Action | After each use | Monthly | Annually | 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 professsional | 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 S9
I was impressed by how easy it was to send embroidery designs from a computer via WiFi and how easy it was to use the embroidery machine.
Very seldom do I recommend a sewing, quilting, or embroidery machine for use by a beginner, but the Janome Skyline S9 is so easy to operate, I believe this machine could be a very useful teaching machine for certain teens, young adults, and even new sewers who are advanced in age.
I do not, however, recommend the use of this machine by children younger than 12 or 13 years of age. The very easy-to-follow on-board guides and tutorials are very helpful for anyone who might be less familiar with the general operation of a sewing machine. The solid construction is an indicator that with proper care and maintenance, the Janome Skyline S9 will stand the test of time. In my opinion, it is safe to assume that this machine will last more than just five to ten years.
My only concern in this regard is the fact that all sewing machine manufacturers have pretty much established a policy of not making replacement parts for any sewing machine that is more than 15 years old. To me, this is a very unsavory business practice because it forces consumers to go out and buy new machines even though the machines they already have could be repaired if the parts were available.
This is something we simply cannot get around. The only possible solution is to make friends with the owner and/or manager of a shop that specializes in sewing machine repair and then cross our fingers, hoping that they will have a stockpile of the parts you need when the time comes.
Now that I know this, I am hesitant to suggest that anyone buy a very expensive sewing machine. However, with an MSRP of $3999, I believe that anyone who is serious about sewing, machine quilting, and machine embroidery will certainly be able to get their money’s worth out of the Janome Skyline S9 before it becomes obsolete.
We have posted a detailed review of the Janome Skyline S5 Sewing Machine. Check it out here. Janome added the Skyline S7 to this line before making the S9, which is still the newest model in this line. A detailed review of the Skyline S7 is available here.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Hi Vernelle, I found your posting when I was looking for the Janome Skyline S9. I was wondering. How much clearance do you need at the back of the machine, when you are using the largest embroidery hoop at the furthest point, so that it doesn’t run into the wall and harm the machine? I could send you a picture of the measurement I’m after if you let me know your email. This is a really good review. Thank you for posting! Kathy
Do you think the embroidery on the Skyline S9 is easier to learn than the Janome E500?
I just spent 2hours at my local Janome dealer on the S9 and I am a beginner. I have quilted 2 king size quilts so far on a Wal-Mart 100.00 brother machine. I have never used a fancy machine or never used an embroidery machine before. In my two hours at the local shop on the S9. I am confident that I can take it home tomorrow (I am so excited) and embroider with no problems at all!.. It is that simple of a machine to use. Extremely user friendly with lots of room to grow and options. Hope this helps.
Já em no Brasil a skyline S9 e qual o valor?
I am looking to purchase this machine. I just read your Baby Lock Unity, so now I am confused. Do you recommend one over the other? I will also be using thicker fabrics. I am not sure on price of Baby Lock Unity. Or do you recommend separate embroidery only machines and separate sewing? Thank you.
I am looking at machines so looked at the S9 … it seems like a good machine to use but the embroidery arm swings out to the back (so it ends up perpendicular to machine) & you would need at least 24″ from front of machine to wall if using at a desk. Since I don’t quite have that much, the machine would hang off so have to eliminate.
I’m interested in an embroidery machine but want to be sure I can Monogram letters at least 6”or taller. I’ve been reading reviews and machine specs but can’t find any reference to size of letters. Do you have any recommendations?
I think for most larger fonts you will have to purchase them and download them. Trying to enlarge some fonts on machine may skew the letters.
Just picking mine up today!
Just getting my machine today!
i took my sewing machine in for repair and asked to look at a new machine. I liked the Janome Skyliner, The asking price is too much for me. The dealer did offer a$500.00 discount if I bought it today, also have monthly payment plan. I need to think more about how much I like it. The free lessons and 100 spools of thread all sound good tome but just a dream for now. Maybe I c n find something this nice used?
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW HOW TO MONOGRAM 3 LINES ON A T-SHIRT OR HOW TO SET IT UP
HI I have a Janome Skyline S9 I got a procover 1000cpx. I was wondering if the feet from the skyline s9 will fit the procover 1000cpxÉ