Janome 8050 would have been great, if you were able to get a new machine. Unfortunately there are only refurbished ones, it seems.

Janome 8050 Computerized Sewing Machine Features

• 50 built-in stitches
• Programmable needle up/down
• Start/stop button and speed control slider
• Extra-high presser foot lifter

Janome 8050 Review

Sewing Machine Reviews Recommendation Level : MODERATE

8050 I think is not in stock, at least that is what I can hear from most online retailers. However you can still get some refurbished ones (which I am not a big fan of). I don’t recommend refurbished sewing machines as they can misbehave at any time, given its past with troublesome stitching.

Janome 8050 is a computerized sewing machine. It has 50 built-in stitches including 3 one-step buttonholes. The LCD screen is of decent size and you can do all the stitch editing on it. The DC motor of this machine is capable of delivering 820 stitches/min. Now, 820 stitches/min is not really the best speed you can get from a sewing machine motor. I have seen $150 Brother machines delivering 850 stitches/min. However, you won’t be able to feel that difference unless you have sewed on a 1000 stitches/min machine. So never mind, not a big deal.

The stitch width on Janome 8050 can be adjusted up to 7mm. An automatic needle threader is there for easy needle threading, push the button and the machine will thread the needle for you. A drop feed option is provided for free-motion sewing. The bobbin is easy to load, drop-in type. The bobbin cover is transparent so that you can keep an eye on the thread supply. You can operate this machine without the foot pedal. The start/stop button and speed control slider lets you sew quality stitches without the foot controller.

A manual thread cutter is provided at the side of the machine for one-hand thread cutting. You can do all in one motion (which is really great to be honest). The machine is free arm capable as well. The storage compartment can be removed for sewing cuffs and collars. The machine has 15 needle positions. The programmable needle up/down button is vital as it saves a lot of time and effort while pivoting or removing fabric. The extra-high presser foot lifter is really useful while sewing bulky fabrics.

A soft dust cover is included with Janome 8050. It comes with 25 year limited warranty. The machine weighs around 18 pounds.

Usability

Janome 8050 is a fairly simple machine to thread, you just need to follow the numbers. The good thing is that the user manual is very clear on instructions. There are diagrams for easy understanding as well. Every minute detail is covered in the manual. Attention to detail is great from the point of view of a beginner. The slow sewing speed is perfect for beginners. All the stitches are good. Even better are the buttonholes. The machine is incredibly quiet (one of the quietest I have ever seen). The operation is smooth and perfect. Even though Janome 8050 has a slightly lesser motor power, it more than makes up for it with the consistent stitch quality and versatility.

Limitations

The presser feet is made of plastic. However you can buy a metal presser feet separately. Yes, you can change the feet even if Janome says otherwise.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Quietest
• Quality stitches
• Great user manual
• Good features

Cons

• Plastic presser feet
• New ones are not common

Is It Worth Buying ?

If it is new, yes. Otherwise it is a big NO. Janome 8050 will be an ideal choice for beginners. The ease of use, quality stitches and quiet operation of this machine will make it a beginners delight. However, please don’t buy refurbished ones. Users who bought refurbished machines have reported some issues.

The best and affordable alternative will be the Janome DC1050. It has all the features of 8050. It doesn’t cost much, you can buy new DC1050 at the price (or slightly higher price) of refurbished 8050. It is a highly underestimated sewing machine. It is not as popular as other Janome machines, but it is really worth the money.