Sew Vac Direct

After receiving this sewing machine, I immediately tried it out just in case I had to return it. It feels heavy enough and nothing moved or trembled during sewing. For threading I used the booklet since it's slightly different than my old machines, drawings are not the greatest but managed at first try. (I'm very experienced, for a beginner it might be more of a challenge)
Read up on how to set the stitches and off I went.......not bad at all, I kept folding the material to see how "thick" I could go. I kept my face afar expecting the needle to break or everything to "snag" up in a bunch ( usually both at the same time ). Things went very well , I even had a few flashbacks thinking I was using my Necchi from 1962 . (the best heavy duty ever) My main use will be for curtains, jeans etc. therefore I didn't want all the fancy stuff that I would never use anyway. Straight stitch ,zig-zag ,zippers, as long as the machine is heavy enough and I can sew thick material without thread and needle breaking constantly . For the price it's a great little machine and very sturdy on my dining table. Tomorrow, lining my rib cord curtains to insulate windows from the cold, I'm confident my machine will do just fine. I would have given 5 stars if machine went a little faster but at the same time I realize you can't have it all for 300 bucks.

I've been sewing for a little over half a century...and this machine has the same sturdy reliable feel of the dependable machines I first learned to sew on. It has the basic stitches that I actually use for dressmaking, home decor and crafts. The basic feet that come with the machine are the ones I use the most...however if you check the Janome accessories you'll find that the feet are so reasonably priced that you can get as many as you want. It doesn't need expensive imported thread..(I use Coats and Clark from Walmart) and it loves Organ Needles ( also so reasonable you buy lots of them).
The instruction manual is clear with good illustrations and room for you to make notes in the margin. Read this manual and follow it step by step until you get used to your new machine. Many of the things my Mother taught me about mechanical sewing machines in the 50's are in this manual. There are instructions for cleaning and oiling your machine...this is great for machines that are in constant use. The stitch selection dials are large and thus easy to turn...the backstitch button is large enough for three fingers..although I use the side of my hand. The sewing light is nice and bright. There is a little compartment in the front for accessories and feet. (very convenient)

Now for the Cons...there were none for me...but you should think about what your sewing needs are and also what your dreams are. If your having questions call the toll free number at SewVacDirct and talk to the folks there. I can tell you that among my family and friends we are all big Janome Fans!