Janome Loft 100: Sewing Machine: Full Review

The Janome Loft 100 is an entry-level sewing machine designed for beginners and casual sewers. As part of Janome's Loft series, it offers basic features and functionality at an affordable price point. This lightweight, compact machine weighs under 15 pounds yet doesn't compromise on quality. With 18 built-in stitches, an easy-to-load top drop-in bobbin, and adjustable stitch length and width, the Loft 100 can handle simple sewing projects like hemming, mending, and crafts. Its manual dial controls and stitch selection chart printed on the machine make it straightforward to operate. While it lacks some of the more advanced features of higher-end Janome models, the Loft 100 provides an accessible introduction for new sewers looking for a reliable, no-frills machine for basic needs. Its combination of simplicity and proven Janome build makes it a solid choice for learning the fundamentals of sewing.

Specifications

The Janome Loft 100 is a compact sewing machine that measures about 15.5 x 8.2 x 12 inches and weighs around 14.3 pounds. Despite its small footprint, it packs in a good amount of features. This lightweight machine is easy to transport and store, making it a great option if you're tight on space or want to take your sewing machine to classes.

Some key specifications include:

• Dimensions: 15.5 x 8.2 x 12 inches
• Weight: 14.3 pounds
• Built-in stitches: 15, including 6 one-step buttonhole styles
• Maximum stitch width: 5mm
• Maximum stitch length: 4mm
• Drop feed
• Free arm
• Top loading bobbin
• Manual thread tension control
• Automatic needle threader
• LED sewing light
• Quick-set bobbin
• Reverse stitch lever
• Onboard storage

The compact plastic housing contains a good amount of metal interior parts, so the machine feels sturdy and durable. Overall, the size and weight make it convenient, while the interior components give it the same power as larger machines.

Features

The Janome Loft 100 is packed with features for the beginning sewer. It has 24 built-in stitches including basic, stretch, and decorative stitches. The stitches are selected using a simple turn dial on the front of the machine.

Some key features include:

• 24 Built-In Stitches - Includes utility stitches, stretch stitches, decorative stitches, and 1 four-step buttonhole
• Needle Up/Down Button - Conveniently raises or lowers the needle
• Free Arm - Provides easy access for sewing cylindrical items like sleeves and pant legs
• Drop Feed Dog - Lowers the feed dogs for free-motion sewing and quilting
• Reverse Stitch Button - Makes reinforcing stitches quick and easy

The Janome Loft 100 has everything a beginner needs to get started sewing and make small projects. While it doesn't have as many built-in stitches as more advanced models, the 24 included cover all the basics. The easy selection dial makes choosing stitches straightforward. Features like needle up/down, reverse, and drop feed make sewing projects easier. Overall, it provides good functionality without being overly complicated for a beginner.

Ease of Use

The Janome Loft 100 is very user-friendly, making it a great choice for sewing beginners. It has an intuitive layout with clearly labeled buttons and dials, so new users can easily identify the main functions. The Loft 100 comes with an instructional manual that provides clear directions for setting up the machine, threading, winding the bobbin, selecting stitches and more.

The top-loading bobbin is easy to insert, remove and see at a glance when running low on thread. There is a handy reference guide printed right on the machine showing how to thread the needle and insert the bobbin correctly. The Loft 100 also has easy to follow stitch selection dials, so users can simply turn to the stitch they want rather than deciphering cryptic stitch codes. An automatic needle threader does the tricky threading for you at the push of a lever.

The Loft 100's lightweight design combined with drop-in bobbin loading makes it very simple for beginners to manage. It's easy to carry the 17 lb machine to classes or move it around your sewing room. The Loft 100 doesn't have an overwhelming number of stitches or options, just the basics a novice needs to get started. Janome designed this machine with the beginner in mind, from the easy set-up to the simple stitch selection.

Stitch Quality

The Janome Loft 100 produces excellent stitch quality right out of the box. The stitches are evenly formed without any skipping or bunching.

The machine maintains consistent stitch length even at high speeds. You can sew fast without worrying about uneven stitches.

The thread tension is superb as well. The top and bottom threads are balanced to create stitches that look great on both sides of the fabric. There's no need to fiddle with the tension settings each time you sew.

The feed dogs provide smooth fabric feeding to prevent uneven fabric movement. Stitches are spaced precisely for professional results.

Overall, the stitch quality rivals more expensive machines. You'll be able to sew fine details and achieve a high quality finish. The Janome Loft 100 makes it easy to get professional looking results.

Noise Level

The Janome Loft 100 has a surprisingly quiet motor given its power and speed. While not silent, it operates at around 65-70 decibels which is comparable to normal conversation. You can easily listen to music, watch TV, or have a phone conversation while sewing without the machine noise becoming distracting or overpowering.

The Loft 100 produces a low hum rather than a high pitched whine, so the sound is not grating or headache-inducing. It has less mechanical noise than older or budget machines thanks to features like a DC motor. The smooth operation and sturdy internal components also minimize vibrations that can lead to noise.

Overall, the noise level is very reasonable for a computerized machine and should not be an issue for most home sewists. Those used to vintage machines will find the Loft 100 whisper quiet in comparison. The machine won't wake sleeping family members or force you to leave the room to talk on the phone. For an intermediate model, Janome has done an excellent job reducing noise while maintaining power and reliability.

Accessories

The Janome Loft 100 comes with a good selection of accessories to get you started sewing. It includes:

• 4 snap-on presser feet for basic sewing - zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, and blind hem foot
• Pack of needles
• Twin needle
• Bobbins
• Seam ripper
• Screwdriver
• Spool caps
• Spool holder
• Soft cover

The presser feet included cover the main techniques you'll need as a beginner. Having a buttonhole foot is a nice addition at this price point. The zipper foot makes inserting zippers much easier. And the blind hem foot allows you to make invisible hems.

It comes with 3 bobbins and a pack of needles to get started. The twin needle is great for decorative stitches.

Overall the included accessories provide you with everything you need to learn and start sewing right out of the box. Janome didn't skimp on accessories with this model.

Warranty

The Janome Loft 100 sewing machine comes with a 25-year limited warranty. This is an exceptionally long warranty for a sewing machine in this price range.

The warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship for 25 years from the date of purchase. This provides peace of mind that the machine is built to last.

The warranty applies to the original owner and is not transferable. It covers parts and labor if the machine needs repair.

However, the warranty does not cover damage from misuse, abuse, alterations, improper voltage supply, or normal wear and tear. The warranty is also void if the machine is serviced by an unauthorized dealer.

Overall, the extensive 25-year warranty reflects Janome's confidence in the durability and quality of the Loft 100. It's reassuring to know the machine is backed for the long haul.

Price

The Janome Loft 100 sewing machine is priced very competitively at around $200. For a computerized sewing machine, this is an excellent value. Many comparable models from other brands cost $300-400. You are getting features like a built-in needle threader, top loading bobbin, 7-piece feed dog, and LCD screen at a fraction of the price.

The Loft 100 punches above its weight class when it comes to features and stitch quality. While the plastic exterior and limited stitch selection don't compare to high-end machines, it provides tremendous value at this price point. The Loft 100 is ideal for beginner and intermediate sewists who want reliable performance without a huge investment.

For the capabilities it offers, the Loft 100 is an outstanding deal. You can tackle a wide range of sewing projects with it. The price makes it accessible for most budgets. Overall, the Loft 100 provides professional-grade sewing technology and convenience at an entry-level cost. It's one of the best values on the market for under $200.

Conclusion

The Janome Loft 100 is an excellent entry-level sewing machine that is feature-rich yet very affordable. It provides great value for money with its sturdy build, easy controls, and good stitch quality. The top loading bobbin and automatic needle threader make it extremely beginner friendly. At under $200, it's one of the best sewing machines for novices or occasional sewers.

The Janome Loft 100 may lack some bells and whistles of more advanced models but it has all the essential features covered. The stitch selection is decent and will fulfill basic sewing needs. While the plastic body feels light, it is durable for regular use. The machine runs quietly and smoothly without any frustrating jams or tangles.

Overall, the Janome Loft 100 is highly recommended for beginners looking for an automatic, user-friendly sewing machine on a budget. It delivers reliable performance right out of the box, making sewing projects enjoyable and hassle-free. The excellent customer service provided by Janome further sweetens the deal. For basic clothing construction and mending needs, the Janome Loft 100 is a fantastic choice that delivers excellent value.