Janome S5: Computerized Sewing Machine: Full Review

The Janome S5 is a computerized sewing machine packed with user-friendly features for both beginners and experienced sewists. This versatile machine offers 50 built-in stitches including utility, decorative, heirloom, and buttonholes. With an automatic needle threader, easy stitch selection on the LCD screen, and speed control slider, the Janome S5 makes sewing projects fast and frustration-free. Its compact size makes it ideal for small spaces, but it still has ample work area with its extension table. With everything from basic straight stitching to more advanced techniques covered, the Janome S5 is feature-rich without being overly complicated. Its combination of simplicity and advanced features makes it a great choice for sewers looking to upgrade from a basic entry-level machine.

Key Features

The Janome S5 is a computerized sewing machine with many great features. As a computerized model, it offers precise stitch selection, automatic thread tension adjustment, and an easy-to-read LCD screen.

Some of the key features include:

• Computerized Stitch Selection: The S5 has 50 built-in stitches to choose from. You simply select the desired stitch on the LCD screen and the machine automatically sets the optimal settings. No need to manually adjust tension or stitch length/width.

• One-Step Buttonholes: The S5 can create perfectly sized buttonholes with just one step. Simply attach the buttonhole foot and the machine does the rest.

• Easy Threading System: This machine has a built-in needle threader that threads the eye of the needle for you with just the push of a lever. No more frustration or eye strain!

• Variable Speed Control: The sewing speed can be adjusted from slow to fast with an easy-to-use speed slider. Great for precision on delicate fabrics or when learning.

• Automatic Presser Foot Pressure: The presser foot pressure is electronically controlled and automatically adjusts for different fabric thicknesses. Ensures even stitch quality across different materials.

• Free Arm: The S5 offers a removable extension table, exposing the free arm for easier sewing on cuffs, sleeves, and other hard-to-reach areas.

The computerization and built-in features allow you to sew a wide variety of projects with ease and professional results.

Additionally, the Janome Sewist 721: Sewing Machine is another fantastic option for sewing enthusiasts. This model offers a selection of essential features that cater to both beginners and experienced users. With 22 built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length, and a top-loading bobbin system, it ensures smooth operation and versatility for different sewing projects. The Sewist 721 also has a convenient drop feed feature for free-motion sewing, making it a great choice for quilters and creative sewing alike.

Stitches

One of the standout features of the Janome S5 is the number of built-in stitches it offers. With 160 built-in stitches, you get a wide variety of options for decorative and utility sewing.

The 160 stitches are divided into the following categories:

• 7 Basic Stitches - These include straight stitch, zigzag, and variations for common tasks like seaming and finishing raw edges.

• 20 Stretch Stitches - Ideal for sewing on knit fabrics with added stretch and flexibility. Great for T-shirts, activewear, etc.

• 17 Decorative Satin Stitches - For adding beautiful embellished details and decorative edges.

• 4 Auto Buttonhole Styles - Professional-looking buttonholes for shirts, jackets, etc.

• 1 Four-Step Buttonhole - For heavy fabrics like denim and coats. Reinforced for durability.

• 46 Combinable Utility Stitches - Combine stitches for custom stitch patterns.

• 20 Quilting Stitches - Includes handy stitches like blanket stitch and hand-look quilt stitch.

• 45 Heirloom Stitches - Elaborate stitches for haute couture and intricate embroidery.

With so many stitches to choose from, you'll have plenty of creative options for any type of sewing project. The Janome S5 can handle everything from basic garment construction to embellished quilting.

Another excellent product is the Janome Sewist 709: Sewing Machine. This machine features a user-friendly design and a range of built-in stitches suitable for beginners and experienced sewists alike. It offers 30 stitches, including utility, decorative, and stretch stitches, allowing for versatile sewing projects. The adjustable stitch width and elongation options provide further customization, making it ideal for various fabrics and applications. Its compact size also makes it easy to store and transport, perfect for workshops or classes.

Buttonholes

The Janome S5 comes with 4 one-step buttonhole styles to choose from, making buttonholes easy to sew. It has a buttonhole underplate that provides stable fabric support when sewing buttonholes. The 4 buttonhole styles are:

• Square Buttonhole - This is a basic square ended buttonhole, good for most buttons.

• Round End Buttonhole - A buttonhole with rounded ends, often used on clothing for a softer look.

• Keyhole Buttonhole - Shaped like an old fashioned keyhole, this has extra reinforcement for buttons on heavy fabrics.

• Stretch Buttonhole - Specifically designed for stretchy knit fabrics, this buttonhole can stretch without distorting.

You don't have to manually adjust buttonhole length, as the S5 does it automatically for consistent results every time. The exclusive buttonhole underplate provides solid support right up to the knife so the fabric doesn't shift during sewing. Overall the buttonholes are professionally finished and uniform.

Needle Threader

One of the handiest features of the Janome S5 is the automatic needle threader. Simply lower the presser foot and push the lever on the side of the machine to automatically thread the needle. This makes threading the needle quick, easy and frustration-free.

The automatic needle threader works by passing the thread through a tiny hook above the needle. When you lower the presser foot, it opens the hook and brings the thread down through the eye of the needle. Then when you push the lever, it pulls the thread back through the hook, leaving it threaded through the needle.

This is an invaluable feature for those with poor eyesight who struggle to manually thread the tiny needle eye. The automatic needle threader does it perfectly every time with no squinting or frustration required. It's also great for quick thread changes, allowing you to effortlessly re-thread the needle in seconds.

Overall, the automatic needle threader takes the hassle out of one of the trickiest parts of sewing and makes threading the Janome S5 an absolute breeze. It's an excellent inclusion that makes sewing more enjoyable and accessible.

LCD Screen

The Janome S5 sewing machine comes with a large, brightly lit LCD screen that makes it very easy to see and select your settings. The screen measures 2.5 inches by 1.25 inches, providing ample room to display information in a clear and readable way.

You can easily view and adjust settings like stitch width/length, needle position, thread tension, speed control, and more right on the intuitive display. The screen uses large text and icons so you can quickly identify which setting you want to change even from a distance. Whether you have poor eyesight or just appreciate a generous display, the Janome LCD screen aims to please.

Navigating the screen is very straightforward with the mode selection buttons and jog dial next to it. Simply press the button for the setting you want to change, then turn the jog dial to adjust the value up or down. The screen immediately reflects any changes made so you can dial in the perfect setting for your project. With just a few button presses and dial turns, you can customize all your settings to suit your needs.

Overall, the LCD screen on the Janome S5 provides excellent visibility, intuitive navigation, and easy adjustment of settings. The large display and simple interface make sewing with this machine a breeze for users of all skill levels. You'll appreciate how quick and effortless it is to get the exact settings you want thanks to the well-designed screen.

Speed Control

The Janome S5 offers excellent speed control with a slider that allows you to sew slowly or quickly. The sewing speed can range from 70 to 1000 stitches per minute, so you can choose the perfect pace for any project or fabric type.

At the low end, 70 stitches per minute is ideal for careful topstitching, sewing knits or lightweight fabrics that might otherwise get distorted at high speeds. The slow pace gives you time to guide the fabric precisely.

In the middle speeds, around 400-600 stitches per minute, you can comfortably sew most everyday projects on wovens like quilting cottons or apparel fabrics. This range lets you sew efficiently without risking skipped stitches.

At the top end of 1000 stitches per minute, you can whip through long seams or sew faster on sturdy fabrics like denim. The high speed is great when you want to save time on big projects like sewing curtains or tablecloths. However, delicate fabrics may bunch or pucker at very high speeds.

The Janome S5 gives you flexibility to choose exactly the right pace for any sewing task. With just a slide of the lever, you can adjust the speed for perfect control and beautiful results on any type of fabric. The variable speed makes the Janome S5 equally good for beginners who want to go slowly and experts who like to sew fast.

Foot Pressure

The Janome S5 allows you to adjust the presser foot pressure, which is useful when sewing different fabric types. Heavy fabrics like denim require more pressure to feed smoothly under the foot, while delicate fabrics need less pressure to avoid puckering.

The presser foot pressure dial is located on the top left of the machine. You simply turn the dial to increase or decrease the amount of pressure exerted. Having the ability to customize the foot pressure for your project means you'll get better stitch quality across different materials.

The Janome S5 makes it easy to go from sewing a heavy canvas to a lightweight silk by just turning a dial. The presser foot pressure adjustment helps prevent skipped stitches, stretching, or buckling on any fabric type. This level of control over the feed system is typically found on more advanced sewing machines.

Accessories

The Janome S5 comes with a good selection of accessories included in the box. Here are the main accessories that come with the machine:

• 7 Snap-on presser feet - The Janome S5 includes 7 different presser feet for various sewing techniques. The presser feet include a zig zag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, blind hem foot, button sewing foot, overcasting foot and a monogramming foot. Having multiple presser feet allows you to tackle different projects without having to purchase additional accessories.

• Hard-shell Carrying Case - The S5 comes with a sturdy carrying case to protect and transport your machine. The case has a handle and closes securely.

• Quilting Guide - This accessory helps you make precise quilting lines at specific intervals. You can adjust the guide to the desired width for even quilting.

• Spool Holder and Spool Pin - The S5 comes with both a spool holder and spool pin so you can use either horizontal or vertical thread spools.

• Bobbins - The machine includes 4 bobbins so you have spares ready when one runs out. The bobbins use Janome's style of bobbin case.

• Seam Ripper - This is a must-have accessory for fixing mistakes and picking seams. The seam ripper safely slices thread without damaging fabric.

• Screwdriver - Used for changing the presser feet and needle. Handy to have when you need to switch sewing techniques.

• Extra Needles - The S5 includes 3 extra sewing needles (4 total). Having backup needles ensures you can keep sewing if one breaks or dulls.

• Instruction Manual - A detailed user manual with tutorials and troubleshooting guides.

The included accessories provide everything you need get started sewing right out of the box. The carrying case keeps it all organized as well.

Pros and Cons

The Janome S5 Computerized Sewing Machine has many benefits but also some downsides to consider.

Pros

• Easy to use LCD screen and controls make selecting stitches straightforward
• Automatic needle threader saves time and frustration
• Good variety of built-in stitches for basic sewing tasks
• Computerized speed control allows adjusting sewing speed
• Automatic buttonhole function creates evenly sized buttonholes
• Hard carrying case protects machine when transporting

Cons

• Limited functionality for embroidery or quilting projects
• Presser foot pressure not adjustable, less flexibility with fabric thickness
• Smaller throat space may make sewing larger projects more difficult
• Lower maximum sewing speed compared to other machines
• Noise level is a bit high during fast sewing
• Manual thread cutter, no automatic thread cutting feature

The Janome S5 offers user-friendly operation and reliability for everyday sewing. However, the limited work area, lack of specialty features, and noise could be drawbacks for some. Understanding the capabilities and limitations can help determine if this machine is a good match for your sewing needs.